US Virgin Islands fishing is known worldwide for its excellence, so if you're looking for fun things to do during your Virgin Islands getaway, you can always book a half or full day charter to take to the open waters. Most anglers looking to go fishing in the US Virgin Islands opt for the sport fishing charters, and since 24 world sport fishing records have been set here, you can bet you'll be in for a world-class experience. Fishing charters can be arranged on all the main islands, so regardless of which of the three you are basing yourself on, you should have no problem getting out for a day or more. Scores of US Virgin Islands hotels can help their guests fully arrange a fishing excursion, so if fishing is a passion of yours, you might choose to stay at one of them that does.

When going fishing in the US Virgin Islands, you won't need to get a permit, which is nice. There are restricted areas in the island chain, however, so you will want to pay special attention to that if you are thinking of grabbing a pole and doing some fishing on your own. It's best to arrange a fishing charter if you're not sure where you can or can't go fishing in the US Virgin Islands, mostly because these companies know exactly where to take you. Not only will they keep you out of the restricted areas, such as the Buck Island Reef National Monument, but they will also keep you apprised of sights and such along the way.

US Virgin Islands fishing can be enjoyed year round, so trying to figure out when to go isn't a huge concern. Tuna, wahoo, and dolphin fish are most abundant during the winter months, but all in all, it really doesn't matter when you decide to visit. Inshore fishing is especially ideal throughout the year, with mackerel, tarpon, kingfish, and amberjack among the fish species you can expect to snare closer to land. Blue Marlin is the king of all the Virgin Islands fish, and many US Virgin Islands sport fishing charters can take you out to drop off points where they abound. If trolling the deeper waters for Blue Marlin is your main goal, then you can certainly book a charter boat to take you further out, though you'll want to remember that these trips cost extra due to time and fuel concerns.

USVI Map

Fees for US Virgin Islands sport fishing charters can be split between anglers to help bring individual costs down, and if you aren't traveling with other fishing enthusiasts, some of the charter companies can help you find a group to join. More often than not, anyone booking a US Virgin Islands sport fishing trip will have to put down a 50% deposit to secure their spot on the boat, and thankfully, tackle and bait are usually provided. Some charters might offer some sort of lunch break during the trip, while others do not, so you might pack a lunch and some snacks if you are unsure.

If you aren't up for a sport fishing adventure, then you can always go fishing in the US Virgin Islands without the boat. Various shoreline fishing spots can be enjoyed in the US Virgin Islands, such as Mandahl Beach, where a rocky shoreline presents a nice place to toss in a line. For those who are set on heading out to sea, you can't top the famous North Drop, which is an easy ride from the islands of St John and St Thomas. As a side note, if you're interested in entering a fishing in the US Virgin Islands competition, various fishing events are held here, so that might be something to consider as well.