Cayman’s offshore waters atop an underwater ridge provide a natural thoroughfare for big migratory pelagic fish prized by sports anglers. Marlin, yellowfin tuna, and wahoo are regularly found as close as a quarter mile offshore year-round.
All deep-sea fishing trips include a captain and mate, equipment, bait, and refreshments. For families or groups with diverse interests and skills, consider a combination trip: Spend a couple of hours fishing, then head inside the reef for stingray snorkeling and a North Sound swim.
Fishing Reports
A trip to the deep sea isn’t – and shouldn’t – be a spur-of-the-moment event (unlike inshore fishing). To have the best experience possible, it pays to know as much as possible ahead of time. That’s why you should check out the weekly fishing reports compiled from information gathered by local bait shops, marinas, and captains.
A good fishing report will tell you the current catch, where to find it, and when it’s most likely to be available. It will also provide the most up-to-date weather conditions, seasickness medications (as needed), popular bait and lures, and upcoming fishing tournaments and derbies.
Embarking on Grand Cayman Islands fishing charters promises anglers an exciting opportunity to reel in prized catches amidst the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.
Grand Cayman has a thriving fishing scene with trips for all skill levels. The island’s teeming waters are home to many fish, including mahi mahi, tuna, barracuda, and wahoo.
Inshore trips usually occur in calm, sheltered waters and offer the chance to learn more basic fishing techniques or try out bottom fishing. Coastal reefs and wrecks are also popular fishing spots where you can find an abundance of smaller fish that make for excellent eating. It’s also a great way to get acquainted with the local marine life abundant in the Cayman Islands.
Charter Boats
Deep sea fishing is a popular recreational activity requiring much skill and physical strength. It is also an excellent way to bond with family and friends. It’s essential to make a few critical decisions before embarking on this journey. The type of boat you choose will directly impact your fishing experience.
A charter company will help you determine the best vessel for your group and your desired excursion. They will consider factors like the size of your party, how involved you want to be in the actual fishing, and the amount of time you wish to spend out on the water.
In addition, a good charter company can provide you with information on the different types of fishing trips available. They will help you decide if you would prefer to focus solely on deep-sea fishing or if you would like to include other activities in your day, such as visiting Stingray City or snorkeling.
Lastly, they will also inform you about what to bring and how to prepare for your trip. For example, you must get comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, fishing gloves, and sunglasses. It is also a good idea to wear sneakers with a rubber sole, as the deck can sometimes be slippery.
Inshore Fishing
The waters in and around Grand Cayman are teeming with marine life, making them a fisherman’s paradise. Whether you’re looking to blow off steam on a solo outing or want to bond with family and friends over the thrill of reeling in a big catch, there’s an excursion that’s right for you.
Reef fishing is available year-round, but the best time to visit for big game battles is summer when the blue marlin and blackfin tuna are biting. Wahoo, Mahi Mahi (also known as dolphin), barracuda, and tuna weighing up to 20lbs are all spotted in these waters.
Whether you go on a half-day reef trip or a full-day tuna or marlin charter, you’ll be glad to have the proper equipment. Many of the island’s top charter companies offer inshore and offshore excursions and night fishing trips that target more active species at dusk.
Some captains also specialize in targeting bonefish, a fish that’s typically found on the flats but which can be targeted deeper off the reef. These captains know the best spots to see them in the “muds,” large areas of milky water that are stirred up by hundreds of feeding bonefish. A heavy bucktail jig fished on the bottom of the mud will often yield a keeper bonefish.
Reef Fishing
Coral reefs, home to various tropical fish, surround the Cayman Islands. Reef fishing is popular for experienced and novice anglers because the fish are usually abundant. This type of fishing is done at or near the bottom and generally involves using live bait like shrimp, mullet, or cut pieces of fish. The best time to catch these species is from November through March, when wahoo, tuna, and mahi mahi are prevalent in the waters.
The second Sister Island of Cayman Brac is also a popular destination for deep-sea fishing. The locals are passionate about the sport, and the area is famous for its bonefishing, tarpon, and sailfish. Whether you prefer to flyfish for these acrobatic fish or the more leisurely action of light tackle, there is something for everyone on a Cayman Brac fishing trip.
Check the weather forecast when planning a deep-sea fishing excursion in Grand Cayman. You want a clear day with calm seas for a smooth journey and to reduce the chances of seasickness. Even if you aren’t one to get seasick, it’s always wise to bring Dramamine or other anti-motion sickness medication just in case. Your captain and crew will take all the necessary precautions to keep you safe and comfortable on your voyage.
