Fishing in the Turks and Caicos Islands is incredible, and the possibilities are almost unlimited. These small, picturesque Caribbean islands have some of the best fishing areas in the world, so much so they are famed all over the world for their sport fishing. Beginners will get an amazing introduction to the sport, while veterans will find they experience a new level of deep sea fishing like no other.
Fishing here is varied and the most popular types of fishing available are; sport, bonefishing, reef and bottom fishing. In other beautiful fishing spots around the world, the marine life has been affected negatively by the tourist trade, whereas here it hasn’t, leaving vast untouched waters jam packed full of big game fish.
Sport Fishing
The Caribbean Sea offers warm, hospitable waters for large game fish. Deep sea fishing Turks and Caicos Islands means exploring the deeper blue waters surrounding the islands. Here you can find; sharks, barracuda, dolphin fish, tuna, wahoo, sailfish and marlin as well as many other large fish. These fish can be found in abundance here all year round, although certain seasons provide better opportunities to catch certain types of fish. In summer, there are record numbers of Marlin caught here. In the Winter months through to Spring (November to April) Sailfish, White Marlin, Wahoo, Tuna and Dolphin Fish are caught in large numbers.
Fees And Rules
As with any fishing areas, there are rules and regulations that apply in the Turks and Caicos islands. Before doing any fishing a person must acquire a fishing license. There are lots of different types available at different costs depending on the type of fishing you intend to enjoy. Chartering your own vessel in order to fish also involves a special kind of license. Using a reputable company to take you deep sea fishing means you will be in expert hands, and able to fish following all local rules and regulations.
Fishing Charters
There are lots of fabulous, reputable charter operators in this area who will be able to guide you to victory on a deep sea fishing trip. You can expect friendly service, high quality boats, expert advice and guidance as well as an overall memorable experience. This is a great way to enjoy deep sea fishing socially and take advantage of local experience and guidance.
What To Take With You
If you want to have the best possible time deep sea fishing, it is important you ensure you take the right equipment with you. If you are on a charter boat the following equipment will be provided for you (depending on the charter company) unless you opt to take your own. If deep sea fishing alone you will need to bring this equipment yourself:
- Rod – This should be the right type of rod for the type of fish you aim to catch.
- Fishing Line – Don’t leave home without extra fishing line as there’s every chance your line will be tested and probably broken and tangled at some point during this energetic sporting activity – these are very large active fish!
- Hooks – You will need hooks in different sizes to catch the different sizes of fish you go after.
- Sinkers – When you go bottom fishing you will need sinkers to get your hook and bait to the bottom of the ocean floor. Taking extras with you is important in case you lose some, which is likely.
- Bait – Take your preferred bait which can be live or artificial. Certain bait is more desirable to certain fish so do your research beforehand.
- Needle Nose Pliers – You use these to remove the hook from the fish you catch, and take the hook from your hand if you’re unlucky enough!
- Line Cutters – If your line gets caught and you don’t want to lose your rod, you’ll need good quality line cutters to quickly snip the line.
- A Knife – If you plan on preparing your fish to eat after you have caught it, perhaps enjoying cooking it up on the boat, you should take a knife with you to do this.
- A Tape Measure – You’ll want to measure the size of the fish you catch to see if you have broken any personal bests!
- A Mini First Aid Kit – You will want to take some basic first aid equipment with you for any minor injuries you endure during your trip. Plasters, bandages, antiseptic spray and surgical tape are all good things to include. You should also take sea sickness tablets and painkillers with you as well just in case.
General Items
Regardless of whether you’re chartering your own boat or using a charter company, you’ll need the following;
Sun Protection – Use high strength sun cream that is waterproof if possible. You should also take sunglasses with UV protection, a hat and potentially some sunblock if you are particularly sensitive to the sun.
Suitable Shoes – You will want comfortable shoes like trainers or soft bottom sandals to ensure you have some grip on the boat.
Suitable Clothes – Remember not to only take summer clothes with you as you are likely to get wet, the weather may change and it’s always colder at sea in the wind. So wear your summer clothes but take some warmer clothes as well such as a waterproof jacket or fleece lined hoodie.
Your Camera! – If there’s one activity where camera phone pictures aren’t good enough, it’s deep sea fishing. You will enjoy some incredible adrenaline filled moments and very happy times catching some amazing looking fish – you will want to catch it all on camera.
Remember, if you opt for a charter company they will tell you exactly what you do and don’t need to bring. The chances are you will simply need to turn up on the day and get ready for the time of your life!
