FISHING IN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS

In Cayman, fishing is often called the unofficial national sport. Prized game like Blue Marlin, Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi and Barracuda are caught year-round. Fishermen have the option of different sites and styles with reef fishing, fly-fishing, deep-sea fishing and more. Charter a vessel and learn from local captains about Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit, or attend one of the local tournaments during the year, hosted by the Cayman Islands Angling Club or Rotary Club. The top events are the Cayman Islands International Fishing Tournament and the BK Big Fish tournament.

If you’ve come to the Cayman Islands with the main intent of fishing, you’ll need to ensure you choose one of the best Grand Cayman fishing charters. The great thing is that there are many to choose from. After all, you should expect nothing less from a location touted to offer some of the best sport fishing in the world. Whether you’re going deep sea fishing, reef fishing, or staying on the flats, there’s a fishing charter for you. 

Here are some Cayman Islands fishing charters you can consider:

Deep Sea Fishing

Deep sea fishing in Grand Cayman is best at the barrier reef that surrounds the island of Grand Cayman. The charter will choose the best location in the barrier’s deep waters. You can expect to catch Tuna, Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo.

The fishing charters in Grand Cayman are also well-equipped. They’ll provide high-quality reels, outriggers, downriggers, electronics, and rods. The crew will position rods with dead bait or lures on them and troll in the water once they choose the best location.

Trolling will take place either along the drop-off or in deeper waters. This will depend on the type of fish you want to catch. The boat moves between six to eight knots while trolling. During this time, the crew will look out for free-jumping fish, birds, and debris.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-time fisher doesn't matter. Each charter has expert skippers that will be there to guide you, ensuring you enjoy your Grand Cayman fishing experience.

Although most trips are between four to eight hours, you can customize yours to suit your needs, which may include more than fishing. Take the opportunity to do other activities such as sightseeing and snorkeling. You can also visit Starfish Point or the Stingray Sand Bar to enhance your experience.

Reef Fishing

The Cayman Islands are known as fishing islands because fringing reefs surround them. These grow near the coastline and are great for reef fishing. Shallow, narrow lagoons separate the reef from the shore and teem with marine life. When doing this type of Grand Cayman charter fishing, expect to snag Grouper, Ocean Turbot, Snapper, and many other exciting species of fish.

Bank Fishing

This type of fishing in the Cayman Islands differs from traditional bank fishing elsewhere. There are two main banks in the Cayman Islands. One bank is 12 miles from Grand Cayman, and the other is 60 miles from the main island. Charters to both will take a while.

You’ll need at least a 14-hour charter to reach the 60 Mile bank. Getting to the 12 Mile bank is much easier, and the fishing is quite good there . 

This bank’s unique underwater feature may be responsible for attracting certain fish species. It rises to a depth of 80 feet from the surrounding waters over 5000 feet deep. But fishing at either bank can yield Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, and Wahoo. 

Amazing Fish In Grand Cayman

One of the main lures of Grand Cayman fishing charters is the multitude of marine life you'll likely encounter as you careen over the crystal-clear, blue waters. They are some of the most sought-after species and include: 

Mahi Mahi

Known as the dolphin that’s a fish and not a mammal, Mahi Mahi is also referred to as Dolphinfish and Dorado. They’re one of the world’s best-known sport fish with an average weight between three to 25 pounds. However, they rapidly grow and weigh as much as 80 pounds or more. These colorful fish are typically found in schools due to their reproduction rate. They will put up a fight, but once caught, they make a great meal.

Wahoo

This type of fish is also known as Oahu, Hoo, and Pacific Kingfish. They’re typically found in warm tropical waters all year round. The waters surrounding the Cayman Islands are no exception. Their average weight is between 15 and 30 pounds, but they’ve been known to reach weights as heavy as 125 to 155 pounds. 

Wahoos are swift, often ripping off lines while traveling over 60 miles an hour. This makes them tricky to catch as their torpedo-like shapes can propel them out of the water and into the air as they try to free themselves from a fishing line. However, Wahoos are worth the chase as they’re known as one of the tastiest game fish.

Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin Tuna is a popular species known as Allison Tuna and Backache. It’s also probably the most colorful tuna. Their average weight is between 30 and 70 pounds, but they can grow to over 300 pounds. This translates to a fight to the end, often requiring stand-up gear to achieve success. They’re also extremely popular with commercial fishers. 

Blue Marlin

The Blue Marlin is the fish to catch, if not for its size, definitely for the challenge. Some anglers have even reported hooking 2000 pounders that they, unfortunately, failed to reel in. This is probably due to the sheer agility of the species. They tend to leap out of the water when initially hooked. Seeing the action as they’re being caught can be quite a sight.

Other species found in the waters off of the Cayman Islands include:

●         Grouper
●         Ocean Turbot
●         Snapper
●         Sailfish
●         Great Barracuda 

Planning Your Cayman Fishing Trip 

When planning your Cayman fishing trip, start by booking one of the best Grand Cayman fishing charters. Book early and do your research. The charter you choose should be suitable for the following:

●         Your group size
●         The ages of those in the group
●         Their fishing experience

There are many family-friendly charters you can also consider. 

The boat should be large enough to accommodate your entire party. Faster boats are recommended for trips to the 12 Mile bank.

Get the cost upfront and compare prices based on the type of boat that will be used and any special requests. These may include snorkel stops or visiting some of the most well-known sites in the Cayman waters.