BEST TIME FOR FISHING IN TURKS AND CAICOS: WHEN AND WHAT TO CATCH

Whether you’re an experienced angler or a casual fisherman, this island archipelago offers an exciting range of fishing experiences year-round. We receive questions all the time around “when is the best time for fishing in Turks and Caicos?” The truth is, it’s always the best time for fishing in Turks and Caicos! However, some months will provide a better opportunity for catching specific fish. So it depends on what your specific goals are and what you hope to catch. For an easy to read guide on when to catch specific fish, check out our page here.

In this guide, we’ll help you understand the best time for fishing in Turks and Caicos, exploring the seasonality and the types of fish you can expect to catch during each season – Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer.

Fall Fishing in Turks and Caicos

Fall, from September to November, is an excellent time for fishing in Turks and Caicos. The weather remains warm and pleasant, and the seas are relatively calm (if we aren’t experiencing a hurricane!) During the fall season, you can expect to catch a variety of fish, including:

• Bigeye Tuna – Bigeye tuna inhabit deep offshore waters around the islands and are known for their voracious appetite, making them skilled predators. Anglers are drawn to the challenge of capturing these powerful fish, as they’re prized not only for their size but also for their delectable, tender meat, which is a favorite for sushi and sashimi.
• Oceanic Sharks (tiger, hammerhead, and bull) – These apex predators are revered for their immense size, razor-sharp teeth, and formidable presence in the open sea. While the catch-and-release practice is encouraged for the conservation of these magnificent species, the process of reeling in these formidable predators is an unforgettable experience.
• Cero – Cero mackerel (also known as just “cero”) are known for their striking appearance, with vibrant blue-green backs and silver sides. They are opportunistic predators, often seen in schools patrolling reef areas and drop-offs. Anglers typically use live bait, such as small fish or squid, to entice cero mackerel. These fish are known for their aggressive strikes and energetic fights, making them a satisfying catch.
• Pompano – Catching pompano in Turks and Caicos is a delightful pursuit for anglers who appreciate both the challenge of the catch and the quality of the table fare. Pompano, characterized by their silver bodies and forked tails, are found in the warm coastal waters around the islands.

Winter Fishing in Turks and Caicos

Winter in Turks and Caicos, from December to February, brings a busy crowd due to our driest season. It’s also the perfect time for snowbirds to flock down south and experience some warmth. In the winter months, you can anticipate catching:

• Wahoo – These streamlined predators are known for their speed and agility, making them a prized catch.
• Mahi-Mahi – These brilliantly colored fish are characterized by their stunning shades of green, blue, and gold. Anglers often find them near floating debris, weed lines, or under birds, as mahi-mahi are attracted to these areas for prey. Mahi-mahi are known for their acrobatic leaps and rapid strikes, offering a lively and challenging fight for those seeking a thrilling angling adventure. Once caught, their delicious and versatile white flesh makes for a fantastic addition to seafood dishes, and they are a prized catch for both sport and culinary purposes.
• Sailfish – Anglers often target sailfish in deep offshore waters, using live bait or lures to attract these magnificent creatures. Please note all billfish are catch and release.
• Grouper – As the water cools, grouper become more active and tend to move closer to the shore, making them accessible to anglers. Using various baits and lures near reef structures, anglers can enjoy the thrill of reeling in these delicious and prized fish, such as black, red, or Nassau grouper.
• Triggerfish – Triggerfish are a common sight in the waters around the Turks and Caicos islands. Anglers typically catch them near reefs and sandy bottoms. Their distinctive shape and vibrant colors make them an interesting catch.

Spring Fishing in Turks and Caicos

Spring, from March to May, is a great transitional period for fishing in Turks and Caicos. The weather warms up, and the fish begin to migrate, offering a diverse range of catches, including:

• Snapper – Snapper fishing in Turks and Caicos is a rewarding experience, especially during the spring. Various snapper species, like yellowtail and mutton snapper, are found around the reefs. Snapper are known for their sharp eyesight and cautious behavior, providing a challenge for anglers seeking a tasty reward.
• Kingfish – These powerful and swift predators can be found in the deeper offshore waters. Anglers typically use live bait or artificial lures to attract kingfish. These fish are known for their fast and powerful runs, offering an exciting angling experience.
• Barracuda – Barracuda are a consistent catch for anglers throughout the year in Turks and Caicos. They are often found near reef areas, drop-offs, and underwater structures.
• Reef Sharks – Reef sharks, including species like nurse sharks and reef sharks, are commonly found in the coastal waters and around the reefs of Turks and Caicos. While they are not typically targeted for sport or culinary purposes, reef sharks can often be encountered by divers and snorkelers exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystems of the islands. These sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the coral reefs and the balance of the marine environment, and they are more appreciated for their ecological significance and presence in ecotourism activities rather than angling.

Summer Fishing in Turks and Caicos

Summer, from June to August, is another “best time for fishing in Turks and Caicos”. The warm, sunny weather creates the perfect conditions for angling. Some of the fish you can look forward to catching during this season include:

• Blue Marlin – Catching blue marlin in Turks and Caicos offers an exhilarating deep-sea angling experience, as these powerful and majestic fish test your strength and skill against the backdrop of the stunning Caribbean waters. Just note Marlin are also catch and release as are all billfish.
• Yellow Fin Tuna – Fishing for yellowfin tuna in Turks and Caicos promises an exciting offshore adventure, with these swift and robust fish providing a thrilling challenge for anglers.

Conclusion

Fishing in Turks and Caicos is a year-round adventure, with each season offering a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re after bonefish, marlin, mahi-mahi, or barracuda, the islands provide a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. Remember to check local regulations and weather conditions to ensure a safe and successful fishing trip. So, pack your gear, book your private fishing charter with us, and get ready to reel in some impressive catches in this Caribbean fishing paradise.