Deep Water Fish Scene
Art by Paul Borghi

Deep Water Fishing

Offshore recreational fishing for billfish and other pelagics in the U.S. Virgin Islands began in the mid-1950's.  The recreational  (sportfishing) effort has expanded greatly in recent years, and a thriving offshore marine recreational fisheries exists throughout St. Thomas and St. Croix.  Much of the success of offshore game fishing comes from the VI's reputation as the Blue Marlin Capital of the World.

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GAME FISH
Click on fish to see larger images.		 SEASON LOCATION BAIT/LURES
Atlantic Blue Marlin

May - Oct.
(peak season)
all year

STT North and South drop - STX 100 Fathom drop off

ballyhoo, belly strips, mackerel, lures

White Marlin

April - May
(peak season)
all year

STT North and South drop - STX 100 Fathom drop off

ballyhoo, bellystrips, lures

Sailfish

Oct. - March

STT North and South drop - STX 100 Fathom drop off

ballyhoo, bellystrips, lures

Yellowfin Tuna

all year

STT North and South drop - STX 100 Fathom drop off and all shelf areas

feathers, lures

Blackfin Tuna

all year

shelf areas on all three islands

feathers

Skipjack Tuna

all year

shelf areas on all three islands

feathers, lures

Wahoo

Sept. - May
(peak season)

shelf areas on all three islands

ballyhoo, lures

Dolphin Fish

Oct. - Jan.
(peak season)
May, July

North and South drop and shelf areas on all three islands

lures