St. John Charter Fishing: Deep Sea Adventures and Reef Fishing

St. John Charter Fishing: Deep Sea Adventures and Reef Fishing

The waters surrounding St. John offer some of the best fishing in the Caribbean. From deep-sea battles with marlin and mahi-mahi in the blue water beyond the shelf to reef fishing for snapper and grouper in the shallows, St. John's diverse marine environment provides world-class angling opportunities year-round.

Types of Fishing Charters

Deep Sea / Offshore Fishing

Head out past the continental shelf into the deep blue water where the big game fish roam. The North Drop — a dramatic underwater cliff just north of the Virgin Islands where the ocean floor plunges from 100 feet to over 1,000 feet — is one of the premier big game fishing spots in the Caribbean.

Inshore / Reef Fishing

Fish the reefs, flats, and coastal waters around St. John for a variety of species. Inshore fishing is great for families and those who prefer calmer waters.

Bottom Fishing

Drop lines to the reef for snapper, grouper, and triggerfish. This style of fishing is the most relaxed and beginner-friendly — perfect for families and kids.

Charter Duration & Pricing

Prices typically include captain, mate, all tackle and gear, bait, ice, and fishing licenses. Most charters accommodate 4-6 anglers.

What's Included on a Fishing Charter

• Professional USCG-licensed captain and experienced mate
• All fishing equipment — rods, reels, tackle, lures, live bait
• Fishing licenses — handled by the captain
• Ice and coolers for your catch
• Fish cleaning — your mate will fillet your catch at the dock
• Safety equipment — life jackets, first aid, VHF radio

What to bring:

• Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
• Polarized sunglasses (essential — you can see fish in the water)
• Light, long-sleeve shirt for sun protection
• Snacks and drinks (ask what the captain provides)
• Camera or GoPro for catch photos
• Dramamine if prone to seasickness (take 30 min before departure)
• Cash for crew gratuity (15-20% is standard for excellent service)

What Happens to Your Catch?

One of the best parts of fishing in St. John — you can eat what you catch!

• Keep and cook: Your mate fillets your catch at the dock. Many local restaurants will cook your fish for a small fee (typically $10-20 per plate). Skinny Legs in Coral Bay and several Cruz Bay restaurants offer this.
• Catch and release: Big game species like marlin and sailfish are typically released. Your captain will help you get photos and video before release.
• Take it home: If you're heading back to the mainland, your fish can be vacuum-sealed and packed on ice for travel.

Best Fishing Seasons

Tips for the Best Fishing Experience

1. Tell your captain your experience level — They'll adjust the trip accordingly. No experience needed for reef and bottom fishing.
2. Morning departures fish better — Fish are more active in cooler morning water
3. Stay hydrated — Sun, wind, and excitement can dehydrate you quickly
4. Listen to the mate — When a fish strikes, the mate will tell you exactly what to do. Follow their instructions for the best chance of landing your fish.
5. Bring polarized sunglasses — You can spot fish, turtles, and rays in the water
6. Book in advance during peak season — The best fishing captains fill up weeks ahead

Ready to reel in the big one? Browse our fishing charter excursions from St. John and St. Thomas.

How Much Does a Fishing Charter Cost in St. John?

In 2026, half-day inshore charters start at $600–$1,000 for up to 6 anglers. Full-day offshore trips targeting marlin and tuna run $1,500–$3,000. Most charters include captain, mate, all tackle, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning. Use our Charter Cost Calculator to compare prices for your group size.

Do You Need a Fishing License in the USVI?

No — recreational fishing licenses are not required in the U.S. Virgin Islands for hook-and-line fishing from a charter boat. Your captain carries all required permits. If you plan to fish from shore or a rental boat, the same exemption applies to visitors. Check DPNR regulations for spearfishing, which does require a permit.

Where Do St. John Fishing Charters Depart From?

Most fishing charters depart from Cruz Bay National Park Dock or the Coral Bay marina area. Cruz Bay is accessible via the Red Hook ferry from St. Thomas. Coral Bay offers shorter runs to the east-side fishing grounds and the North Drop.

Can Beginners Go Deep Sea Fishing in St. John?

Absolutely! No experience is needed. Your captain and mate handle all the technical work — setting lines, choosing bait, and running the boat to find fish. When a fish strikes, the mate coaches you through the fight. Half-day inshore trips are the best option for families with young children.

What Is the Best Month for Fishing in St. John?

Every month offers excellent fishing, but peak seasons vary by species. November–March is prime wahoo season. March–June brings the best mahi-mahi runs. June–October is blue marlin season at the North Drop. Reef fishing for snapper and grouper is productive year-round.

Related Guides

• St. John Fishing Landing Page — Browse available fishing charters with real-time pricing
• Charter Cost Calculator — Compare private vs. shared charter costs
• USVI Passport Requirements — ID requirements for USVI travel
• Cruz Bay National Park Dock — Main departure point for St. John charters
• St. John Anchorages — Best sailing spots near fishing grounds
• Scuba Diving St. Thomas — Combine fishing with diving on your trip