Comprehensive guide to fishing during your BVI yacht charter. Covers safe species identification, recommended fishing zones, trolling techniques, and essential safety tips. Learn where to fish, what to catch, and how to ensure a safe fishing experience in the British Virgin Islands.
BVI Fishing Guide: Safety, Species & Trolling Tips | H2O Luxury Yachts
Complete guide to safe and successful fishing during your BVI yacht charter. Learn about safe species, zones, techniques, and equipment for the best fishing experience.
Safe Species & Locations
Pelagic Fish (Always Safe):
- Tuna
- Wahoo
- Mahi Mahi
- Ocean Mackerel
- Marlin
- Sailfish
Safe Fishing Zones:
- North side of Tortola
- Virgin Gorda waters
- Anegada surrounding waters
- Open ocean areas
Areas to Avoid:
- West of Virgin Gorda
- Sir Francis Drake Channel
- Waters near Peter Island, Norman Island, and Road Harbor
- South side of islands toward St. Thomas
Equipment & Techniques
Essential Equipment:
- Rigged lures (with or without plastic skirts)
- Feather jigs (blue/white or green/yellow)
- Silver spoons
- Bibbed lures (Rapala style)
Trolling Best Practices:
- Match speed to conditions and location
- Slower speeds (2-3 knots) around headlands and rocky outcrops
- Higher trolling speed (5-7 knots) in open waters
- Most productive while sailing
- Best results during morning hours
Safety & Risk Factors
Note: Some reef fish may carry ciguatera toxins. This is why we recommend staying with pelagic species.
Never Safe Species:
- Barracuda (all locations)
- Jack (all locations)
- Bottom-dwelling fish from restricted zones
- Learn about ciguatera poisoning risks and symptoms before fishing in the BVI
Understanding Risk Factors:
- Historical copper mine activity affects southern waters
- Ocean currents create a risk pattern
- Local expertise confirms safe zones
- Greater risks in teardrop-shaped zone south of islands
Expert Safety Tips:
- Choose fish that move through multiple feeding grounds
- Verify catch location before consumption
- Trust local knowledge about safe zones
- When in doubt, stick to pelagic species
- Ask your captain about local hotspots and features
Looking to include fishing in your charter? Contact us at +1-954-271-3005 for expert guidance on the best fishing spots and safety considerations.
Related Fishing Resources
- Tarpon Fishing Guide – Expert tips for catching tarpon in the BVI
- Custom Fishing Charters – Specialized fishing trips
- General BVI Fishing Guide – Overview and regulations
- Important: Ciguatera Safety Guide – Essential safety information
