Fishing in St. James Parish

Located on the northwestern coast of Jamaica, St. James Parish is home to the island’s tourism capital—Montego Bay. Famous for its white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, and reggae rhythm, this coastal region is also a fantastic fishing destination. With quick access to the deep Caribbean Sea, nearby coral reefs, and scenic coves, anglers can enjoy world-class offshore, reef, and shore fishing just minutes from the dock. The tropical marine climate provides warm temperatures and stable weather conditions most of the year, making fishing in St. James possible year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned offshore angler chasing marlin or a family looking to hook snapper on a reef trip, the waters off Montego Bay and the rest of St. James Parish deliver an unforgettable Caribbean fishing experience

Fishing in St. James Parish is primarily saltwater-based, with exceptional offshore sportfishing, reefs fishing, and shore fishing opportunities. The deep Caribbean waters just a few miles offshore make Montego Bay a popular departure point for big game charters. Closer to shore, reef fishing is perfect for light tackle action, with productive grounds full of snapper, grouper, and barracuda. These trips are ideal for families or less experienced anglers looking for plenty of bites. Shore fishing from beaches, piers, or rocky points is also possible, especially in quieter areas outside of tourist zones, where jacks, snook, and small snapper can be found. Night fishing is a local favorite and can yield surprising catches around docks and reefs.

Blue marlin is the premier target for big game anglers, with peak season running from June through September, though smaller marlin can be caught throughout the year. White marlin, sailfish, and longbill spearfish also pass through the waters offshore. Yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi (dolphinfish) are available in various seasons, offering thrilling runs and excellent eating. Inshore and reef anglers target mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper, grouper, grunt, barracuda, and jacks. The reefs also hold species like triggerfish, porgy, and Spanish mackerel. Tarpon and snook can be found near river mouths and lagoons, while bonefish and permit are rare but possible in certain shallow areas and flats, especially around Negril and Falmouth, within driving distance.

Trolling is the standard method for targeting offshore pelagic species. Anglers use skirted lures, rigged baits (especially ballyhoo), and teasers to attract marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi. Many charter captains also employ live bait techniques for wahoo and tuna when conditions allow. Bottom fishing over reefs is typically done with cut bait or squid using multiple-hook rigs for snapper and grouper. Jigging and casting lures can also be effective near reef drop-offs and wrecks for jacks, barracuda, and mackerel. Light spinning tackle is used for shore fishing, with small lures or baited rigs targeting jacks, snappers, or even tarpon in the right conditions. Some charters also offer night fishing, especially around full moons and reef structures