Providenciales Deep Sea Sport Fishing
The Turks and Caicos is a great destination for deep-sea sport and pelagic fishing. This is largely due to the geography and underwater topography of our archipelago.
The Turks and Caicos is situated on a distinct marine plateau, and the edges of this plateau are typically quite sheer, with depth quickly dropping from 40 feet (12 m) into the thousands. Our islands tend to be found near the edge of this marine shelf, so deep water and fertile fishing is found less than 10 minutes from the dock.
The island of Providenciales is the center for the big game fishing in the country, and there are several dedicated charter companies operating out of the two main marinas on the island.
Before the Turks and Caicos gained a global reputation for having some of the best beaches in the world, our archipelago was one of the best-kept secrets for sport fishermen and scuba divers.
Deep sea game fishing is a very exciting activity for anglers and spectators alike. There’s the anticipation of a fish on the lines, the constant lookout for the birds that are the tell-tale sign of fish, and the energetic fight when a fish is hooked.
The Fish and Seasons
There are seasons for many of the big game species found off the Turks and Caicos, so you’ll want to plan well in advance of your visit if you have a particular trophy fish in mind.
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Billfish such as sailfish and blue marlin are out waiting to be found, and white marlin and swordfish are less common yet still a possibility.
Skipjack tuna, mackerel, and the exquisitely-colored mahi-mahi (dolphinfish) are a possibility year-round, as are sharks. Yellowfin tuna, blackfin tuna, and Wahoo are common catches for much of the year as well.
Great barracuda of all sizes are abundant in the flats and open water surrounding the Turks and Caicos.
As is the case with bonefishing in the Turks and Caicos, the common practice is to catch and release fish that won’t be eaten. Many of the popular restaurants on Providenciales are happy to prepare the catch.
Deep Sea Fishing Charters
There are several great companies to choose from on Providenciales. Most vessels are modern deep sea sport boats in the 40-50 foot range from manufacturers such as Hatteras or Bertram. These comfortable yachts offer spacious fighting decks and air-conditioned cabins with relaxing salons and lavatories, for the perfect day on the water.
Most of the sport fishing vessels have ample space, with room for 10-12 people. Everyone doesn’t have to be an angler either—the cruise and excitement of fishing is entertainment in itself.
Several charters all run deep-sea fishing trips on smaller open console vessels, which can be a good choice for shorter excursions.
Most fishing charters in the Turks and Caicos provide complimentary refreshments and snacks, and full-day trips typically include lunch as well.
All equipment, rods, and bait are typically provided by the charter company.
Fishing Competitions
The main game fish events in the Turks and Caicos are the annual Caicos Classic IGFA Billfish Release, and the annual Grand Turk Fishing Tournament. These tournaments span multiple days.
In the past, Providenciales hosted several top regional events which attracted yachts from around Florida and the Caribbean. These competitions had quite impressive openings, with dozens of sport fishing boats filing out in a convoy at the start of each morning.
Visiting the Turks and Caicos by Yacht
The Turks and Caicos is a great destination for cruising and yachts, is easy to enter, and high-quality fuel is available at a decent price. See Yachts and Cruising in the Turks and Caicos for everything you need to know.
Fishing Charters
