Bermuda is one of the world’s finest destinations for anglers, especially in light-tackle fishing. In fact, anglers from around the world descend upon the island every July for the Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Championships, a trio of deep-sea fishing tournaments featuring hefty cash purses. But you don’t have to be a professional to catch the big one. Blue marlin catches have increased dramatically in recent years, and Bermuda can add billfishing (for marlin, swordfish, and sailfish) to its already enviable reputation. Although fishing is a year-round sport, its best between May and November, when the seas are calmest and big fish like wahoo, tuna and mahi-mahi run in large schools just off Bermuda’s shores. Even novice anglers can spend a day at sea, just don’t expect to bring home all of your catch, since many charter captains supplement their income by selling the day’s bounty to local restaurants and markets.

REEF AND DEEP SEA FISHING
Three major reef banks lie off Bermuda: The Inner System, which begins about 1km ([bf]2/3 mile) offshore and stretches for nearly 8km (5 miles); the Challenger Bank, about 23km (14 miles) offshore; and the Argus Bank, which is about 50km (31 miles) from the shoreline. As a rule of thumb, the farther out you go, the more likely you are to turn up larger fish. In the Inner System you’ll find amberjack, chub and snapper; at Challenger you’ll see wahoo, tuna, mahi-mahi and barracuda; and at the Argus Bank is where you’ll find the biggest of boats searching for the biggest of fish including marlin, swordfish and sailfish. There are dozens of qualified operators to choose from, but click here for our favorites.

SHORE FISHING
Shore fishing turns up such catches as bonefish, pompano, snapper and barracuda, most of which can be found in Bermuda’s shallow bays and coves. Locals prefer shore fishing at Spring Benny’s Bay in Sandys Parish or West Whale Bay in Southampton; and on the east end, St. George’s Harbour. Another popular spot is Daniel’s Head Beach Park near Somerset Village. Many of the island’s tackle shops have closed so it’s best to bring your own gear if you’re planning to fish along Bermuda’s shoreline (for bait, try any gas station or grocery store).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.