Many anglers traveling to Jamaica want to know the best time and season to fish. There are several factors that will influence your decision on when to fish in Jamaica.
The best time to fish for white marlin, barracuda, mahi mahi, and yellowfin tuna in Jamaica is from January to May. For large Wahoo and Bonefish, the best inshore fishing window is September through January.
| Fish species | The best fishing season in Jamaica |
| white marlin | February to April is the best time for local white marlin fishing. |
| blue marlin | August to October is the best season for blue marlin fishing. |
| included shelf | Availability throughout the year; It bites best in the early morning and late afternoon. |
| king mackerel | Availability throughout the year; There is no real high season. |
| bony fish | Availability throughout the year; The best fishing is from November to December. |
| grouper | Availability throughout the year; The best fishing is from May to October. |
| work work | Availability throughout the year; February to June is the best fishing season. |
| Atum | March to April is the best time for tuna fishing. May can also be good. |
| Wahoo | Spring and fall are the best seasons to fish for wahoo in Jamaica. |
| single | Availability throughout the year; August to October is the best fishing season. |
Jamaica is a beautiful island with a rich history and interesting culture. It is a vacation destination that attracts many travelers from different parts of the world. Jamaica is also known for its reefs and fantastic fishing.
The best time to fish in Jamaica
Fishing in Jamaica is very productive from June to November. Thus, anglers can catch the vast majority of fish species in the summer and autumn months. However, it is possible to fish in Jamaica at any time of the year.
It is incredibly important for anglers to plan their Jamaican fishing adventures. First of all, anglers need to decide which species of fish to target during their fishing trips.
After that, it is necessary to study the bite times of the target fish species. Keep in mind that the best time to go fishing in Jamaica largely depends on the species you are targeting.
Let's say you are interested in fishing for white marlin. In that case, it's best to plan your Jamaica fishing adventures for February and March.
Anglers looking for blue marlin in Jamaica experience the best results between August and October. Or maybe you want to catch mahi-mahi during your fishing trips? Then visit Jamaica in the spring.
It is also important to note that many anglers prefer to target bluefin tuna on their fishing trips. The best season to visit mahi-mahi in Jamaica is between May and July.
Jamaican Species Distribution: Best Months
Jamaica is a place where anglers can catch a wide variety of fish species. Anglers can catch many different species of fish in the area. Here we provide a list of the main target species for Jamaica. We also give advice to anglers on where and when to fish for these species.
included shelf
Anglers can always book a fishing trip to fish for amberjack in the waters around Jamaica. During your fishing trip, visit the most remote locations in the region to fish for amberjack.
It makes a lot of sense to hit the bull's eye in the waters off North Jamaica. It is important to note that the bull's eye bites well throughout the year.
barracuda
Barracuda can be caught in Jamaica. Barracuda can be found near the reefs in the region. Montego Bay is the perfect place to hunt barracuda in Jamaican waters.
Barracuda fishing is good year-round in Jamaica. It makes sense to fish for barracuda early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
Bonito
Bonito is also one of the most common fish species in Jamaica.Bonito bites well all year. However, skipjack fishermen get the best results in December and January. Bonito can be caught in Montego Bay. Bonito tends to bite well at night.
grouper
Jamaica is also known as a grouper fishing spot.The best season for grouper fishing is between May and October. However, grouper fishing is good all year round in Jamaica.
Thus, anglers can fish for groupers at any time of the year. Anglers should book a deep sea fishing trip to Montego Bay to catch grouper.
pez real
Anglers can also catch kingfish (also known as mackerel) in Jamaica. It is possible to target kingfish throughout the year. Ocho Rios is one of the fishing spots where anglers in the area are successfully catching kingfish. Anglers often catch chunks of kingfish just before dark.
Do it yourself
Mahi-mahi is one of the main target species in Jamaica.It is possible to fish for mahi-mahi at any time of the year. However, mahi-mahi fishing is most productive between February and June.
Book a deep sea fishing trip to the Mahi-Mahi destination. Anglers can try to catch mahi-mahi in Montego Bay. Early in the morning or late at night are the best times of the day to hit the mahi-mahi.
Marlin (several species)
It makes sense that anglers would try to catch marlin on their trips. Jamaica is home to blue marlin, white marlin, and many other species of fish. Jamaica's Port Antonio is the perfect place for anglers to enjoy marlin fishing. Here fishermen often catch billfish.
The perfect time of year to fish for white marlin in Jamaica is between February and April. Blue marlin are most active between August and October.
Marlin fishing is good in Montego Bay. It is recommended to fish for marlin in the morning or in the afternoon.
single
Jamaica offers anglers the opportunity to fish for halibut. Falmouth is the place to be for anglers looking to catch halibut on their fishing adventures.Halibut fishing season in Jamaica begins in late summer and ends in early fall.
Tuna (various types)
Tuna fishing is also very popular in Jamaica. Anglers can catch various species of fish in the region. Anglers can fish for yellowfin, blackfin, skipjack, and yellowfin tuna in Jamaican waters.
Tuna fishing season in Jamaica begins in March and lasts until May.Experience tuna fishing in the deep waters of the Cayman Trench. The perfect time of day to fish for tuna is between sunset and sunrise.
Wahoo
Wahoo is another fish that many anglers prefer to catch on their Jamaican fishing adventures.Wahoo is active during the cold months.
Wahoo fishing is most productive in the spring and fall.You would be better off fishing for wahoo in alligator waters. Remember that the Wahoo usually bites well at first light.
Recommended Fishing Charters in Jamaica
These Jamaica based charters have received rave reviews from anglers and offer excellent service. The captains are knowledgeable, friendly and help you fish safely.By clicking the links below, you will be taken to the relevant charter profile on Fishing Booker, where you can read reviews, learn more about the charter, view photos and book online at the best price.
| Recommended Fishing Charters | Type of fishing offered |
| Just Hook It Charters Ltd. | Recife, Nearshore y Offshore |
| magic sport fishing reel | Recife, Nearshore y Offshore |
| Sailing adventure in Jamaica | Recife and offshore |
| Inselhund - White lady | Costero, Nearshore y Offshore |
| Island Dog – Ballenero Uno | no sea |
| Island Dog - Lady Verr | Costero, Nearshore y Offshore |
The best time of day to fish in Jamaica
Fishermen in Jamaica fish early in the morning, from late morning to late afternoon, and from late afternoon until dusk. The best time of day to fish in Jamaica depends on many factors, including the time of year and the type of fish you want to catch.
It would be great to start planning Jamaica fishing adventures and study the behavior of your favorite fish species in advance.
Carefully review a fishing calendar and try to find the best times to bite the fish you want to catch in Jamaica. Go fishing during peak fish activity hours.
When choosing the best times to fish, you should also take weather conditions into account. Weather permitting, anglers can fish when their favorite fish species are most active.
The vast majority of Jamaican anglers choose to fish at dawn or dusk. These are the best times to bite where you can catch many species of fish.
Because of this, you should aim to fish in Jamaica from sunrise to 2 hours after sunrise or 2 hours before sunset to sunset. Fishing is most productive during these hours.
Fishing in Jamaica and the effects of the tides
Fishing times in Jamaica are highly dependent on the tide. Therefore, fishermen should carefully analyze the tide times before going out to fish. Check the fishing tide charts to find out when the tides are high and low in the area.
Remember that fishing is most productive at high tide. The water that reaches the area at high tide contains a lot of oxygen. This is how many species of fish become active and search for food.
Storms and Fishing in Jamaica
When planning Jamaica fishing adventures, anglers should always check the weather forecast. And of course, fishing in a storm should be avoided for a number of reasons.
Stormy weather is a great challenge for anglers. Fishing in storms is dangerous. It is also important to note that fish go into deep water and rest during storms. Because of this, inshore fishing is not productive during a storm.
However, it would be great to go gales and storm fishing. Fishing is good in flooded areas after storms. Storms create great opportunities for inshore fishing. Therefore, it is a good idea to fish for storms in bays or near coastal areas.
Is winter fishing in Jamaica bad or good?
It is important to note that anglers can fish in Jamaica throughout the year. Winter creates great fishing opportunities for anglers in Jamaica. It is important to know that many species of fish actively feed during the winter months.
Anglers who go fishing in winter get the best results in February. Fish species that anglers can catch in the area during the winter include barracuda, bonito, mahi-mahi, marlin, snapper, mackerel, and tuna. That's why winter fishing in Jamaica is so good.
Night Fishing in Jamaica
Night fishing has many benefits for anglers in Jamaica. It is a good idea to fish at night during the warm winter months. It is also important to note that night fishing is very productive. In night fishing, anglers can catch species such as sea bream, sole and mackerel.
On the other hand, night fishing is not for everyone. Remember that fishing in the dark can be difficult for beginners.
Shore/surf fishing: best times and seasons
Many anglers prefer deep sea fishing in Jamaican waters. You book a rental car and head out into the deep waters to go fishing. Surf fishing is also possible in the region. There are many beaches where anglers can fish from the shore.
It is also important to note that many anglers fish in Jamaican marine parks. Anglers can also fish from the Jamaican docks.
Some of the most popular piers in Jamaica include the Downtown Pier, Reynold's Pier, Pier One, and many others. So try fishing these places from the pier.
Top 5 Jamaican Fishing Spots (Best Months)
When planning Jamaica fishing trips, anglers must decide where to fish. And, of course, anglers should give preference to places where fishing is excellent. Now let's talk about some of the best fishing in and around Jamaica.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is one of Jamaica's most popular fishing destinations. Anglers choose to reserve a charter to enjoy deep sea fishing in this location.
Fish species that can be caught in the waters of Montego Bay include barracuda, mahi-mahi, marlin, tuna, and wahoo. For fishermen, it is best to visit the bay between September and October. Fishing is most productive during these months.
To the Alligator Trench
Cayman Trench is an ideal spot for anglers looking to catch tuna and wahoo. It is worth noting that the waters of the Cayman Trench are teeming with fish. Here anglers can also catch blue marlin, mahi-mahi and many other species of fish.
The Alligator Trench is a place where anglers can fish year-round. If you want to go tuna fishing in Jamaica, go fishing between March and June. Tuna season begins in late fall and ends in early spring.
falmouth
Falmouth is another great fishing spot in Jamaica. The place impresses anglers with the wide variety of fish species. Here anglers can target species such as perch, bream, cod, ling, sole, mackerel, and sharks.
The fishing season in Jamaica begins in April and lasts until October. Anglers can catch the vast majority of fish species during this time of year.
eight rivers
Ocho Rios has gained great popularity among anglers interested in deep sea fishing. The area impresses with its variety of fish.
Here, anglers can catch many different species of fish, including blue marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, sailfish, and wahoo. Fishing in Ocho Rios is excellent year-round.
port antonio
Port Antonio attracts many anglers interested in fishing for blue marlin. The reality is that anglers often catch big marlin in the waters off Port Antonio. Here it is also possible to target many other species of fish such as barracuda, tuna, white marlin and many others.
Deep sea fishing charters always offer great experiences to anglers. This means that you can fish in the area at any time of the year.
Charter booking in Jamaica (best times)
Anglers should book a charter to organize an unforgettable fishing trip in Jamaica. By booking a charter, you can fish the local waters and explore the beauty of the area.
– Best travel time
It is important to note that the fishing season in Jamaica is very active during the winter months. The reality is that many tourists visit Jamaica in January.
Therefore, the demand for fishing is high and prices increase in winter. Note that fishermen may also visit the area in the off-season. Fishing charter prices are much lower, but anglers can still get good results.
– Tomorrow vs. Late
Fishermen in Jamaica choose to fish in the morning or in the afternoon. It would be great to fish in the mornings during the summer months. Morning fishing is most productive in summer.
The water cools and this leads to increased fish activity. Afternoon fishing is good in the cooler months. As such, afternoon fishing in Jamaica is recommended during the spring, fall and winter months.
– 1/2 day, full day, multi-day charters
Fishermen also have to decide how long their trips will take. You should know that fishing trips can last half a day, a full day or several days. Anglers need to book charters that suit their fishing goals and preferences.
Let's say you're interested in fishing for mahi-mahi, tuna, and blue and white marlin. Remember that a half day trip is enough to test your fishing skills with these species of fish. It is also important to note that a half-day trip is the most economical option.
Please note that it takes a few hours for anglers to reach some remote fishing spots in Jamaica. Half-day trips do not leave enough time for anglers. Therefore, you should consider booking longer fishing trips.
Therefore, a full day fishing trip is a better option. Full-day trips give anglers plenty of time to travel to the spots they need to and enjoy the catch. However, full-day trips are more expensive than half-day trips.
Some anglers need even more time to fish. Therefore, you might consider booking multi-day trips. Multi-day charters are a good option for anglers interested in catching a trophy fish.
For a full breakdown of thebest times to fish in barbados, check out this helpful guide. For a full breakdown of thebest times to fish in puerto rico, check out this helpful guide.
For a full breakdown of thebest time to fish in the bahamas, check out this helpful guide. For a full breakdown of theThe best times to fish in Costa Rica, check out this helpful guide.
FAQs
What season is best for freshwater fishing? ›
Freshwater Fishing in the Summer
Summertime is arguably the most active fishing season of the year! The sun is high, the days are long, and the fish are active throughout the day. With that being said, certain weather conditions can play a critical role in determining how successful your fishing day will be.
The high season for fishing in Jamaica tends to be from June to November. Nevertheless, you're bound to make a good catch no matter what time of year you go. Before you start reeling them in, here's what you need to know about fishing in Jamaica, including the best spots, tours, and charters!
What months are best for fishing? ›Fishing can come alive in the dead of winter on a mild afternoon, but spring and fall usually present the best action. Generally, I try to avoid extremes of heat and cold and times when the water temperature falls rapidly. My best days tend to happen when the temperatures are mild and the weather conditions stable.
What is the most common fish in Jamaica? ›The principal fish species now cultured in Jamaica is the tilapia (red hybrid).
What time are freshwater fish most active? ›Before we dig into the details, however, we can make one blanket statement: fish just about everywhere are almost always active at sunrise and sunset. These periods of changing light levels trigger feeding behavior in all kinds of predatory fish.
What is the most popular fish to catch in freshwater? ›Inhabiting waters in almost every state, largemouth bass are the most popular freshwater game fish. Learn more about fishing techniques to catch the most intelligent of the different types of freshwater fish.
What time of year is best to fish in Caribbean? ›The months of February through May are great for catching wahoo in Saint Lucia, while August to December is best for catching blue marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna.
What is the biggest fish ever caught in Jamaica? ›The largest "Goliath Sea Bass" was caught by Kyle O'Connor. It measured 5' long and a girth of 48".
Why is fish so expensive in Jamaica? ›The price of salt fish (salted codfish), a key ingredient in Jamaica's national dish, is getting more expensive due to a combination of factors including the declining value of the Jamaican dollar and competition for supplies with other consuming nations in South America and Eastern Europe.
What are the two best times to fish? ›Fish generally prefer early morning and evening sun to the bright midday rays. In midday, the surface temperature of the water is also hotter, forcing the fish to move deeper.
What weather is the best for fishing? ›
Cloudy Conditions
Fish tend to be more active during cloudy weather conditions rather than on a sunny day. Fish will more freely disperse in the water as opposed to aggregating to one spot. The heavy clouds prevent light from intensely shining through the water.
Fish are More Active
The fish were active during the evening and perhaps they've had their fill once the sun rises. That's one of the reason why many anglers prefer to hit the water at night.
In popular culture. Ackee and saltfish is widely regarded as the national dish of Jamaica.
What are the rules for fishing in Jamaica? ›For shore fishing in Jamaica, you will not require a fishing license. You will however need a license for deep-sea fishing. Anglers should also be aware of protected areas where fishing is not allowed in Jamaica such as in the Montego Bay Marine Park. Spearfishing is prohibited in this area.
What fish eat dead skin in Jamaica? ›Garra rufa are sometimes referred to as “doctor fish” because they eat away dead skin found on people's feet, leaving newer skin exposed.
What time of day is easiest to catch fish? ›Within an hour of sunrise and an hour after sunset are the times when fish are likely to bite the most. Fishing for some species of fish is much better at night than during the day. Although it is possible to catch fish during daylight hours, fish are less likely to bite when the sun is at its apex.
What temperature do freshwater fish prefer? ›The preferred range is 65-85°F (18-29°C). At 95°F (35°C), bacteria die, which can lead to ammonia spikes. Lower temperatures cause the bacteria to become less active and can even make your aquarium take longer to cycle. As you see, it's pretty important that you keep your aquarium at the correct temperature…
What do freshwater fish do at night? ›While fish do not sleep in the same way that land mammals sleep, most fish do rest. Research shows that fish may reduce their activity and metabolism while remaining alert to danger. Some fish float in place, some wedge themselves into a secure spot in the mud or coral, and some even locate a suitable nest.
What is the easiest fish to catch freshwater? ›Guppies are one of the most popular beginner fish for the freshwater aquarium, and it's no wonder. They are very easy to care for, they breed readily, they come in a wide range of beautiful colors, and they get along well with other fish that are similar in size and temperament.
What is the hardest freshwater fish to catch? ›Goliath Tigerfish
Smart, aggressive with razor-sharp teeth, and not shy around humans (they are known to attack), Goliath Tigerfish are the hardest freshwater fish to land.
What freshwater fish fights the most? ›
Big stripers and sturgeon are some of the hardest fighting fish you can tangle with in freshwater. Much like chinook and steelhead, these species get a turbo charging out in saltwater, or at least most stripers do.
What is the most popular fish in the Caribbean? ›Of all of the tropical fish in the Caribbean, Blue-Striped Grunts and French Grunts are perhaps the most common. They can be seen swimming around almost every shallow reef around the Caribbean.
What is the best moon for fishing? ›The most important thing to remember about fishing by the moon is that periods of a full or new moon tend to be the best, provided that the weather and water conditions are stable.
What is the best moon and tide for fishing? ›Fishing is said to be best during the time between a new Moon and a full Moon. This is what the Almanac's Best Fishing Days are based on.
What is the largest fishing village in Jamaica? ›Let's lift your Spirits! The Old Harbour Fishing Village is one of the largest fishing villages in Jamaica, if not the largest. This bustling seaport is five kilometres (3 miles) from Old Harbour, St Catherine.
What is the largest freshwater fish in the Caribbean? ›One species of particular interest to conservationists is the Cuban Gar, the largest species of freshwater fish in the Caribbean.
What fish is invasive in Jamaica? ›In Jamaica, the Lionfish has no aggressive natural predators. They are fast growing and are able to outgrow native species with whom they compete for food and space. This causes a threat to our reef fish popula- tion.
How much cash should I bring to Jamaica? ›Cash: You will not need to exchange your US dollars into Jamaican dollars because everyone takes US currency. It is recommended that you bring between $150 and $500 per person for spending depending on what you plan to do. Please have at least $200 in small bills ($1.00, $5.00 and $10.00) with the balance in twenties.
What is the most expensive fish dish to eat? ›Pufferfish: This is a deadly yet one of the most expensive delicacies in the world. The Japanese eat about 10,000 tons of puffer fish every year.
How much is a pound of fresh fish in Jamaica? ›Jamaica fish wholesale price. In 2023, the approximate price range for Jamaica Fish is between US$ 5.11 and US$ 4.99 per kilogram or between US$ 2.32 and US$ 2.26 per pound(lb).
What time of night are fish most active? ›
In general, fishing during the night is most productive between 8:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. Clear and calm nights are the best time to plan your trip, as opposed to when it's windy and the waters are rough. In clear, calm waters, fish usually become active once the sun has completely set.
Do you catch more fish at night or day? ›Night Time Gives Fish a Sense of Cover
Whether you are in saltwater fishing for sharks, flounder, redfish, trout, or in freshwater fishing for catfish, bass, crappie or any other species, you are more likely to catch bigger fish by night fishing.
Yes, fishing is often better than normal when it's raining, but it may not be the rain itself causing the hot bite. Pay attention to as many factors as you can. But above all, don't let a little precipitation prevent you from going out or staying out on the water.
How hot is too hot for fishing? ›As an ethical angler, you'll want to know how hot is too hot for trout fishing. Because of these compound effects, a rule of thumb is to avoid fishing when water temperatures are above 68-70°F.
What are the worst winds for fishing? ›As a general rule, anything over three foot seas with winds of 20 to 25 knots creates conditions that are no longer safe for fishing.
What temp is too cold for fishing? ›When the water's temperature drops to 40 – 49 degrees, their metabolism slows down, so they're most likely slow to approach any bait presented to them. If this is the case, focus more on casting your line in deeper waters. You can still fish in water with temperatures lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
What color are fish attracted to the most? ›What color light attracts fish the best? Overall, green light attracts the most fish. Green has a high lumen output of 130 per LED alongside a 520 nm wavelength. Shrimp and insects have both of these wavelengths in their color vision alongside green light receptors around 530 um.
What bait for night fishing? ›Spooks, poppers, frogs, prop baits and anything that makes a disturbance on the surface can work well. However, buzzbaits take the top prize for night fishing. Since bass don't see as well in the dark, they rely on their other senses to hunt for prey.
What attracts fish at night? ›Plankton is a primary food of many baitfish, so when plankton gather in the lighted portion of the water, baitfish move in to enjoy the banquet. The baitfish in turn attract game fish looking for an easy meal. “Plankton migrate to light for reproduction,” Keith said.
What do Jamaican call fish? ›In Jamaica, "fish" is a derogatory term to describe homosexual men.
What does big fish in Jamaica mean? ›
Jamaican Proverb - “Fry di big fish fus, di likkle one aftah." Translation:- (Fry the big fish first then the little one after). Meaning:- Deal with the most important matters first.
What is a guppy in Jamaica? ›The. Jamaica guppy is a very tiny variety, males hardly become 3 cm long. It. is real fun to watch these motley and lively fishes in the aquarium. They are completely undemanding and can be recommended even for totally.
What is the fine for fishing without licence in Jamaica? ›One major concern of the fisherfolk is the $10,000 fine for persons fishing in Jamaican waters without a licence.
How much does it cost to go fishing in Jamaica? ›The average price for a private 4 hour Jamaica fishing trip is $826, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,435 based on prices on FishingBooker.com. Which fishing charters in Jamaica are good for families?
Can I fish in Jamaica pond? ›Don't overlook the warm water fishing at this pond. Bass fishermen enjoy fair action during the summer months, particularly in the area around the island at the mouth of the northern cove. This pond also has excellent Yellow Perch of large average size.
What fish skin can you not eat? ›Safety aside, certain fish skins just don't taste good. Avoid eating tuna skin, which is thick and tough, and skate skin, which is prickly. Swordfish and monkfish also have thick, leathery skins that you probably want to avoid. Salmon skin is delicious, as is barramundi skin—especially when cooked nice and crispy.
What do Jamaicans eat with fish? ›Ackee and Salt Fish
A common ingredient combination found in Jamaican dishes is seafood and fruit. One of the most popular Jamaican dishes is one made up of boiled ackee (the national fruit of Jamaica) and sauteed salt fish (also known as codfish or cod) with a blend of seasonings, vegetables, and, sometimes, rice.
These fish, Garra rufa, sometimes called doctor fish, eat the dead skin off the feet revealing smooth, callous-free skin, and cleaner-looking cuticles. Fish pedicures are popular in Turkey , where they originated, and other Middle Eastern countries.
What are the best weather conditions for freshwater fishing? ›Fish tend to be more active during cloudy weather conditions rather than on a sunny day. Fish will more freely disperse in the water as opposed to aggregating to one spot. The heavy clouds prevent light from intensely shining through the water.
Is fishing better in winter or summer? ›Winter is a particularly great time to fish because freshwater species group up, meaning more fish on your lure.
What month is best for bass fishing? ›
When it comes to the best season to fish for bass, spring and summer are good times. Ideally, it's when the water temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees. However, many anglers will also tell you that it's in spring whenever bass begin to spawn.
What time of year is best for fishing rivers? ›Conventional wisdom suggests that late spring is the best time to catch trout, especially if you're looking for larger fish. The warmer it gets, the more fishing pressure from other anglers, the thicker the grass and brush surrounding their habitats and the lower the water levels.
Is it good to fish in the rain freshwater? ›Successful Rainy Lake Fishing
Often, during hot summer months, the amount of dissolved oxygen in a lake becomes low, making fish inactive. Rain will aerate the surface water and often has a cooling effect, both of which can activate fish.
The optimal feeding and movement water temperatures for them is 44 to 67 degrees. When the water temperature hits 68 degrees, both species will begin to get stressed. If the water temperature continues to rise and gets in the 75 to 77 degree range for an extended period, it can be lethal for Rainbow and Brown Trout.