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If hearing the ‘ZING’ of the line suddenly getting pulled below makes your heart putter, if incessantly changing bait on the hook every hour does not bore you but brings joy to your heart, this place should be on your bucket list. It’s Saint Lucia, the world’s most popular destination for fishing.
Located in the far eastern Caribbean Sea, head south of Martinique and you will discover the volcanic island country of Saint Lucia. A quick Google search will conjure up images of unworldly black sand beaches, and the only drive-in volcano in the world, La Soufrière. But you can’t see pictures of Saint Lucia without coming upon the iconic Pitons. These twin mountain formations rest on the coastline, like beacons for the phantom onlooker. And while these volcanic spires attract many visitors, down at sea-level, anglers from all over the world flock to this island to experience the pinnacle of fishing.
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Sportfishing enthusiasts visiting Saint Lucia regularly catch large game fish like White Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, and other billfish. Other popular catches include Dorado (Mahi-Mahi), Wahoo, King Mackerel (Kingfish), Blackfin, and Yellowfin Tuna.
Closer to shore, Saint Lucia also has great inshore and reef fishing, where anglers can catch Herring, Catfish, Tilapia, Snapper, Jacks, Barracuda, Grouper, and more.
Fishing runs deep in this country, as it is a huge part of Saint Lucian culture. So not only are there a ton of fish, but a ton of experts that can show you exactly where to drop your line.
Ways to fish in Saint Lucia
If you have yet to fish in the Caribbean, you must experience it in Saint Lucia, it’s one of the best fishing destinations among the islands. Although relatively small, Saint Lucia has the most ideal environment for fishing. A sort of Goldilocks combination of just the right conditions has caused large game fish to thrive near the coastline.
Relatively close to shore there are some of the deepest waters in the Caribbean. This is because of sharp drop-offs, when the seafloor suddenly drops steeply. Large fish congregate among these drop-offs, so fishermen can catch big game fish without having to go far from shore. And because of the tropical climate, anglers can fish 365 days a year.
That’s right. You can have an amazing fishing experience whenever you choose to visit Saint Lucia.
Surf and rock fishing
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Along the underwater drop-off only two miles off the coastline, pelagic fish gather. Anglers can catch fish from the shoreline without getting their feet wet or stepping foot into a boat. Soufrière is somewhere you can visit along Saint Lucia’s southwest shore. The town pier that juts out into Soufrière Bay is a great place for catching Tuna, Barracuda, Snapper, and Grouper. So, if rock fishing is your ideal, definitely check this place out. You likely won’t be disappointed!
Another hotspot for rock fishing is at Rodney Bay, on Saint Lucia’s northwest shore. Below these rocks on the bay’s southern shore, you can catch snapper and yellowtail. You can stay at an all-inclusive resort near Rodney Bay, and you won’t have to travel a far distance to go rock fishing. The chefs at the restaurants might even be able to prepare the catch of the day as your dinner later that evening!
Pack a sandwich, meet some people, and enjoy that ocean breeze.
Reef fishing
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If you’re itching to get off land and away from it all, like Jack from the Titanic looking for the next adventure, reef fishing is a great choice (and you probably won’t hit an iceberg at the end). Below the surface of Saint Lucia’s western shoreline are vast, colorful reefs, teeming with marine life like Grouper, Snapper, Barracuda, Grunts, and more. Many of these fringing reefs can only be reached by boat, so it is best to hire a reef fishing charter. If you wish to take your own fishing boat, hiring a local guide is ideal. They will show you exactly where the best reef fishing is, so the trip will be more worth your time. And hey, what a better way for you to get to know the community.
Deep-sea fishing
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Far from the coast, many thrill-seeking anglers head out for deep-sea fishing. Escaping out to the ocean, finding the ideal spot to set lines, carefully monitoring navigation, and most obviously, catching some really big fish are what attract fishermen to the deep-sea.
As we mentioned before, the steep drop-offs surrounding Saint Lucia create a perfect habitat for large, deep-sea fish to congregate relatively close to shore. This makes the island a deep-sea fishing mecca for anglers from all over the world. You can catch big game fish like Billfish, including White Marlin, Blue Marlin, and Sailfish, a popular goal for deep-sea anglers visiting Saint Lucia. Other big sport fish like Wahoo, Dorado, and Tuna are regularly spotted in these waters, too.
Just don’t forget to take a picture. Your friends and family won’t believe it.
How to fish in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia has the perfect environmental ingredients, like when you mix a Saint Lucian dish of green fig and saltfish. It’s magic. An abundance of game fish lurking below the steep drop-offs, idyllic tropical weather; it’s what makes fishing in Saint Lucia top notch. But before you start thinking about how good the fish is going to taste, you must first decide how you’re going to fish in Saint Lucia. Whether you decide to take your own boat out, or hire a private fishing charter, it’s bound to be a great time!
Fishing with your own boat
If you decide to take your own boat to Saint Lucia, there are two docking options: Rodney Bay and Marigot Bay. Prices vary according to the size of the boat and the number of nights you wish to dock in the marina. If you want to fish with your own boat but are unfamiliar with the area, you can ask local fishermen, or inquire at the resort you’re staying in for insight on the best places to fish. You can also hire a local guide to come with you on your fishing trip.
Hiring a fishing charter
You can enjoy some world-class sport fishing in Saint Lucia.
With an abundance of fish to catch comes a variety of private charters offering fishing tours all around Saint Lucia. There are companies that offer shore and shallow reef fishing, bottom fishing, and deep-sea fishing charters.
Using a private charter is a great idea if you want to ensure you’re using your time (and money) wisely. Skippers are experts on fishing in the area. They will know exactly where you need to go to make your catch depending on the time of year you visit and the time of day, you’re out fishing. And when you’re on a small-group fishing tour, you can expect to get personal attention, if you’re a novice or experienced.
Charter prices vary depending on the type of fishing, and whether you opt for a half day or full day tour. For half days, tour prices are usually around $120 USD/person, and for full days, tour prices are around $200 USD/person. Trips generally include everything you need, such as equipment, bait, licenses, drinks, and sometimes lunch.
Expert tip: Island Routes offers some amazing deep sea fishing excursions in Saint Lucia. Make sure to book in advance to ensure availability!
Saint Lucia fishing regulations
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Fishing is a cultural staple in Saint Lucia. The government has laws and regulations in place to protect the local marine life and support the livelihoods of the locals. Before heading out to the open blue for battle, you should be aware of these regulations in Saint Lucia.
There is a catch-and-release policy for visitors for most types of fish around the island. This allows for more fish to remain and reproduce in the ecosystem, so fishing can continue to sustain future generations. Also, anglers do need a fishing license to fish from a vessel, but that price is usually included in the price of fishing charters. However, you do not need a fishing license to fish from shore. That’s right. No license, no problem.
The best time to fish in Saint Lucia
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As we mentioned above, Saint Lucia’s climate stays relatively temperate throughout the year. There are, however, two seasons: wet and dry. The best time to visit Saint Lucia depends on if you want to avoid rain or crowds. If you’re hoping to catch a specific type of fish, the many different fish species have varying peak periods, but you can catch most throughout the year.
Bonus: Saint Lucia sightseeing – other island must-sees
While you’ll have the time of your life fishing in Saint Lucia, you won’t want to miss the rest of what the island has to offer. Saint Lucia features natural wonders that put this destination on the map.
Hike the Pitons
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Undoubtedly the most picturesque landmark, The Pitons in Saint Lucia are made up of two mountains – Gros Piton and Petit Piton. Nearly 3,000 feet above sea level, the green slopes of Gros Piton are widely explored. Petit Piton is, however, steeper, harder to climb, and can only be explored accompanied by special guides. Gros Piton has marked trails, a less treacherous landscape, and is generally safer than Petit Piton. Once at the peak, prepare for a breathtaking view.
Explore Pigeon Island
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Looking for more stunning views? Located on the north end, Pigeon Island is one of the Caribbean’s most historic landmarks. The island was once separate from the country, until in 1972 when a man-made causeway was built to connect the two. An interest for all types of travelers, you can get a history lesson about previous inhabitants, including a pirate with a wooden leg. You can also explore 18th-century military ruins, including a hike to Fort Rodney, a relic of the American Revolutionary War. The fort is at the top of a hill and surrounded by beautiful, unobstructed views. The hike up and down takes about 50 minutes, so don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring some water!
Expert tip: Pigeon Island is located on a short walk from the award-winning all-inclusive resort Sandals Grande St. Lucian. The view on Pigeon Island from its pier restaurant is simply stunning, making it the ideal place for a romantic dinner. The best part: when you’re a guest at this resort, all food and (alcoholic) drinks at this restaurant are included and unlimited!
Drive through the volcano La Soufrière
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Those visiting the island can discover the world’s only drive-in volcano, La Soufrière, located near Soufrière on the southwest side of the island. Last active in the 1700s, La Soufrière is a dormant volcano that produced a series of surrounding geothermal springs. You can drive right up to the edge of the springs and view them from a safe distance.
Located at the volcano is Sulphur Springs; a towering waterfall and natural mud baths, believed to have medicinal properties. You can bathe in the mud pools, hovering around 110°F, and after can rinse off under the 50 foot tall waterfall.
Also read: 40 Amazing Things To Do In Saint Lucia to find out what else is on offer on this beautiful island!
Planning your Saint Lucia fishing trip
Sandals Grande St. Lucian showcases awe-inspiring panoramic views. The chefs at the restaurants will be more than happy to prepare your catch of the day if you request it in advance!
A marvel of Caribbean pleasure, Saint Lucia has a rich history and offers adventure on the ground or out on the ocean. The underwater ecosystem surrounding Saint Lucia makes it the most ideal island for fishing. For a fun fishing trip that’s sure to be a catch, check out Island Routes’ fishing excursions.
If you’re staying at any of the three Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia, you can even have the chef prepare your catch for you. Located in several beautiful locations, this luxury all-inclusive resort provides 5-star amenities, including international gourmet restaurants, unlimited land and water sports, and spas. The only battle you’ll be fighting will be out on the fishing boat!
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