Virgin Islands Fishing |

Why Fish in March

March is an excellent time for a fishing holiday in the United States Virgin Islands. The weather is typically warm and dry, trade winds keep the air comfortable, and the sea is inviting for both serious anglers and curious beginners. From St Thomas and St John to St Croix, there are plenty of ways to spend a day on the water.

This is also a lively month to visit, with plenty happening across the islands, yet the fishing remains the main attraction for many travellers. Imagine leaving the marina after breakfast, passing rocky coves and uninhabited islets, then settling into the steady rhythm of the ocean as your crew searches for a catch.

Caribbean Holidays, Virgin Islands Fishing, A professional fishing charter cruising through clear Caribbean water off St Thomas, with anglers preparing rods and dramatic island coastline behind them

Charter Fishing Trips

For the best chance of reaching productive offshore waters, book a charter with a local captain. Crews know the reefs, drop-offs and seasonal movements, and they can select the right equipment and tactics for the conditions. Most trips provide rods, tackle, bait and guidance, so you do not need to bring specialist kit.

March can bring opportunities for mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna and billfish in deeper water, while nearer the coast you may find snapper, grouper and other reef species. A full-day trip gives you more time to explore distant grounds, but a half-day excursion can be ideal for families or visitors combining fishing with swimming and sightseeing.

Caribbean Holidays, Virgin Islands Fishing, Anglers fishing beside a sheltered reef near St John, with clear shallow water, colourful marine life and a forested tropical shoreline

Reef and Inshore Fishing

You do not have to head far offshore to enjoy rewarding fishing in the US Virgin Islands. Inshore waters around the bays and reefs offer a relaxed experience, with lighter tackle and beautiful scenery all around you. These trips are particularly suitable if you are new to fishing or would rather avoid a long day at sea.

Some operators also arrange shore fishing, although access and local rules vary from beach to beach. Ask your accommodation provider or charter company for current advice before casting from land. A local guide can point you towards suitable areas and explain which species may be kept and which should be released.

Caribbean Holidays, Virgin Islands Fishing, A friendly fishing guide helping visitors on a charter boat at sunset near St Croix, with rods, cool box and golden Caribbean sea

Planning Your Day

Start by choosing the island that best suits your holiday plans. St Thomas has a wide selection of charter boats and easy transport links, St John offers a more peaceful setting close to protected waters, and St Croix provides a different feel with excellent offshore and reef fishing.

Wear light clothing, non-slip shoes, sunglasses and a hat, and bring sun cream, water and any medication you need. Seas can be bright and breezy even when conditions look calm from shore. Check whether your operator supplies food and drinks, and confirm the meeting point, duration and cancellation policy before you travel.

Caribbean Holidays, Virgin Islands Fishing, A freshly caught fish being carefully released beside a Caribbean fishing boat, with pristine blue water and tropical islands in the distance

Fish Responsibly

Good local operators care about the health of the sea and will explain responsible fishing practices. Follow size and bag limits, respect closed seasons, and handle fish gently when releasing them. Avoid taking more than you need, particularly when enjoying a catch-and-release trip.

With warm March weather, varied fishing and unforgettable island scenery, the United States Virgin Islands are a superb choice for an angling break. Whether you dream of battling a fast offshore fish or simply want a quiet morning by a reef, the islands make it easy to enjoy the Caribbean from the water.