Saint Martin Fishing |

Fishing Around Saint Martin

Saint Martin and Sint Maarten offer an excellent setting for a fishing holiday, whether you are an experienced angler or simply fancy trying something different in the Caribbean. The island’s deep, clear waters lie close to shore, so you can spend less time travelling and more time waiting for a bite.

French Saint-Martin and Dutch Sint Maarten share one small island, but both sides provide easy access to lively marinas, experienced skippers and well-equipped charter boats. Add warm weather, sheltered bays and a choice of reefs and open-water grounds, and fishing becomes an enjoyable part of any island escape.

Caribbean Holidays, Saint Martin Fishing, Anglers on a modern charter boat catching a powerful game fish in open Caribbean water, bright sky and blue sea

Deep Sea Excursions

For many visitors, deep sea fishing is the main attraction. Charter trips head beyond the island’s coastal waters in search of impressive game fish, including mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna and barracuda. At certain times of year, larger species such as marlin and sailfish may also be found in the surrounding Atlantic waters.

Trips usually include rods, reels, tackle and advice from a local crew who know the best grounds. You do not need to be an expert; the skipper will explain what to do and help you handle the equipment. Half-day outings suit first-timers, while a full-day trip gives serious anglers more time to reach productive offshore areas.

Caribbean Holidays, Saint Martin Fishing, Colourful reef fish viewed by a snorkelling angler in clear shallow water beside Saint Martin, tropical reef and sunlight filtering through the sea

Reef And Inshore Fishing

Fishing is not limited to the open sea. Inshore and reef trips offer a more relaxed experience, with opportunities to catch snapper, grouper, jacks and other species around rocky outcrops and coral reefs. These waters can be especially appealing to families and visitors who prefer a shorter excursion.

Some operators combine fishing with swimming, snorkelling or a picnic in a quiet bay. That makes it easy for a mixed group to enjoy the day together, even if only one or two people want to hold a rod. The scenery is part of the experience, with rugged coastline, bright water and small islands appearing on the horizon.

Caribbean Holidays, Saint Martin Fishing, A friendly fishing charter crew cleaning a fresh catch at a colourful Caribbean harbour on Sint Maarten, boats and palm trees in the background

Planning Your Trip

Fishing charters depart from several convenient locations, including marinas around Philipsburg, Simpson Bay and Marigot. When choosing a trip, check what is included, how many people are aboard and whether the price covers licences, bait and refreshments. It is also worth asking about the expected catch and the season for your preferred species.

Take sun protection, a hat, non-slip footwear and a light layer for the boat ride home. Seasickness tablets can be useful if you are not accustomed to open water. Most importantly, listen to the crew and respect local fishing rules, so the island’s rich marine life remains healthy for future visitors.

Caribbean Holidays, Saint Martin Fishing, Freshly prepared Caribbean fish served at a relaxed seaside restaurant in Saint Martin, sunset light and harbour views

After The Catch

One of the pleasures of a fishing holiday is enjoying the result. Depending on local regulations and the charter’s policy, your catch may be cleaned for you to take away or prepared by a nearby restaurant. Ask before booking, as arrangements vary between operators.

Even when the fish are not biting, a day on the water is a memorable way to see Saint Martin and Sint Maarten. You may spot seabirds, flying fish or dolphins, and the changing view of the island offers a welcome break from the beach. For an active Caribbean getaway with plenty of local character, fishing here is hard to beat.