US Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands · 2026 Season
Fishing Charters
Book deep sea and reef fishing charters departing from Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, St. John. Professional captains, all gear included.
Vetted local captains · Secure operator booking
Fishing charters from St. John, USVI cost $600–$3,000 depending on duration and type. Half-day inshore trips start at $600, while full-day offshore marlin/tuna charters run $1,500–$3,000. Top species include blue marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and yellowtail snapper. No fishing license required for visitors.
Choose your day on the water
St. John Fishing Charters
1 charter available
St. John Half-Day Inshore Fly Fishing Charter
St. John Fly Fishing
Join your captain aboard a 20-foot Jones Brothers for fly fishing and light-tackle inshore fishing in St. John. The trip specializes in bonefish and tarpon on the fly, with chances
- Boat
- 40' Fishing Boat
- Duration
- 4 Hours
- Up to
- 3 guests
- Stops
- Custom itinerary
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St. John's fishing waters are among the most productive in the Caribbean. The island sits near the edge of the continental shelf, giving charter boats quick access to both shallow reef fishing and deep-water big game territory. The legendary North Drop — where the ocean floor plunges from 100 feet to over 1,000 feet — is just a short run from Coral Bay and regularly produces blue marlin, wahoo, and yellowfin tuna.
Whether you're a seasoned angler chasing a grand slam or a family looking for a fun half-day on the water, St. John's fishing captains deliver world-class experiences with all tackle, bait, and licenses included. No fishing license is required for visitors in the USVI.
What Makes US Virgin Islands Fishing Charters Special?
The North Drop
One of the Caribbean's premier big game fishing spots where the shelf drops dramatically. Blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, and wahoo patrol these deep waters year-round.
Reef & Bottom Fishing
Fish the reefs around St. John for yellowtail snapper, grouper, and barracuda. Perfect for families and beginners — no experience needed.
All-Inclusive Charters
Every charter includes captain, mate, all tackle and gear, live bait, fishing licenses, ice, and fish cleaning at the dock.
Keep Your Catch
Your mate fillets your fish dockside. Local restaurants like Skinny Legs in Coral Bay will cook your catch for $10–$20 per plate.
Deep Sea / Offshore Fishing
Head past the continental shelf to the North Drop for blue marlin (200–500 lbs), white marlin, mahi-mahi (peak March–June), wahoo (peak Nov–March), yellowfin tuna, and sailfish.
Full-day offshore trips run 8 hours and cost $1,500–$3,000 for up to 6 anglers. Half-day offshore trips (4–5 hours) are $800–$1,500.
Big game species like marlin and sailfish are typically catch-and-release. Your captain helps with photos and video before release.
Inshore & Reef Fishing
Fish the reefs, flats, and coastal waters for yellowtail snapper, red snapper, kingfish, barracuda, tarpon, and bonefish.
Half-day inshore charters (4 hours) cost $600–$1,000 and are the best option for families with kids. Calmer waters and consistent action.
Bottom fishing for snapper and grouper is the most relaxed style — drop a line and wait. Great for beginners.
Seasonal Calendar
January–March: Prime wahoo season, excellent tuna and mahi. Calm seas.
April–June: Peak mahi-mahi runs, marlin starting. Best overall conditions.
July–September: Blue marlin peak at the North Drop. Warm water, occasional storms.
October–December: Wahoo returns, tuna year-round. Variable conditions improving.
Reef fishing for snapper and grouper is productive every month of the year.
Departure Points
Cruz Bay National Park Dock — Most charters depart here. Accessible via the Red Hook ferry from St. Thomas.
Coral Bay — Shorter run to east-side fishing grounds and the North Drop. Several operators based here.
Hotel pickup available from most St. John resorts and villas.
What You Need to Know
- No fishing license required for visitors in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- All charters include USCG-licensed captain, experienced mate, rods, reels, tackle, live bait, and ice.
- Fish cleaning included — your mate fillets your catch at the dock.
- Most boats accommodate 4–6 anglers. Private charters available for groups.
- Morning departures (6–7 AM) fish best — cooler water means more active fish.
- Gratuity for crew is 15–20% of the charter price for excellent service.
Pro Tips from the Locals
💡Tell your captain your experience level — they'll tailor the trip to your group.
💡Bring polarized sunglasses — you can spot fish, turtles, and rays in the clear water.
💡Take Dramamine 30 minutes before departure if you're prone to seasickness.
💡Wear light, long-sleeve sun protection — you'll be on the water for hours.
💡Use reef-safe sunscreen — required by USVI law.
💡Book in advance during peak season (Dec–April) — the best captains fill up weeks ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore More in US Virgin Islands
Snorkeling
Combine your fishing trip with snorkeling at Trunk Bay or Waterlemon Cay.
Private Charters
Book a private boat for a customized day — fish in the morning, snorkel in the afternoon.
Scuba Diving
Explore underwater dive sites on your non-fishing days.
Day Trips
Full-day boat charters that can combine fishing, snorkeling, and island exploration.
Sunset Sailing
End your fishing day with a sunset sail along the national park coastline.
Charter Cost Calculator
Compare private vs. shared charter costs for your group size.
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Book your fishing charters experience — we'll help plan the perfect day.