Nassau is best known for turtles, beaches and swimming pigs, but the reefs a short ride from the harbour are also a great place to fish. If you are thinking about a fishing charter in Nassau, this guide covers what you can catch, how a trip works, when to go, and what to bring, whether you are an experienced angler or have never held a rod.
What is a private reef fishing charter?
Our 4-hour private fishing charter is inshore reef fishing: bottom fishing over the coral reefs and ledges close to Nassau, not a long run offshore for big game. That means calmer water, more bites, and a trip that suits families and first-timers as well as keen anglers.
The boat is yours alone, for up to 8 guests, from $950 for the whole boat. Rods, reels, bait and tackle are all included.
What can you catch fishing in Nassau?
The inshore reefs around Nassau hold a mix of colourful, good-eating reef fish. The most common catches are:
- Snapper: a reef favourite that fights well for its size and is excellent to eat.
- Yellowtail snapper: fast, schooling fish with a bright yellow stripe. When they are biting, the action can be non-stop.
- Grouper: strong, heavy fish that head straight for the reef once hooked, so hold on.
- Triggerfish: clever bait-stealers with tough skin and a surprising pull.
What bites on the day depends on the season, the tide and the conditions. Your captain picks the spots based on what is working that week.
A note on Nassau grouper season
The Nassau grouper is a protected species in The Bahamas, and it has a closed season every year from 1 December to the end of February, during its spawning period. If you hook one during the closed season, we release it straight back to the reef. It is one of the ways Bahamians keep the reefs healthy for the next generation of anglers.
How the 4-hour fishing charter works
- Pickup. Meet your captain at the pickup point you chose when booking: Woodes Rogers Walk by the cruise port, the rear dock of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, or Montagu in eastern Nassau.
- Out through the harbour. Cruise out past the harbour to the first reef.
- First fishing spot. Lines in the water. The crew bait the hooks, help land the fish and give tips to anyone new to fishing.
- Snorkel break. Between spots, grab a mask and snorkel over the same reef to see the fish, coral and sometimes a sea turtle up close.
- Second spot. The captain moves to another reef for a final session.
- Back to the dock. Keep your catch, or have it cleaned and filleted at the dock for a small fee.
Is it good for kids and beginners?
Yes. Reef fishing is one of the easiest kinds of fishing to enjoy on your first try, because the fish are plentiful and you do not need to cast far. The crew do the fiddly parts, like baiting hooks and taking fish off the line, so children can focus on reeling in. Life jackets are on board for everyone, and the snorkel break keeps younger guests happy if the fish are slow. If you are travelling with little ones, see our tips for chartering with kids.
When is the best time to fish in Nassau?
Reef fishing in Nassau works all year, and the water stays warm in every season. Winter (December to April) brings breezier days and the most visitors. Late spring and summer usually have the calmest water, which makes for comfortable fishing and clear snorkeling. Remember the Nassau grouper closed season from December to February if grouper is on your wish list. There is more on the seasons in the best time of year to visit Nassau by boat.
Fishing on a cruise port day
At four hours, the fishing charter fits comfortably into a cruise stop. Choose the Woodes Rogers Walk pickup, which is about a 10-minute walk from the ship, and you will be back with plenty of time before all aboard. If your ship is delayed or misses Nassau, you get a full refund. See our Nassau cruise excursions guide for more.
What to bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- A swimsuit and towel for the snorkel break
- A phone in a waterproof case for catch photos
- A small cooler bag if you plan to keep your fish
Everything else, including the rods, bait, snorkel gear, water, soft drinks and snacks, is on the boat. There is a longer list in what to pack for a day on the water.
Book your Nassau fishing charter
Pick a date on the private fishing charter page and reserve with a 10% deposit. Want to fish and see the pigs? Message us and we will help you choose the right trip.
[…] grouper, triggerfish and yellowtail, with a snorkel between spots. No experience is needed. Our Nassau fishing charter guide covers what you can catch and […]