Fishing in Martinique

Martinique is one of the islands within the Lesser Antilles archipelago that separates the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. It is a French overseas territory, making it the westernmost part of France and the European Union. The entry requirements are as per France, which simplifies the travel for both Europeans and Americans - convenient, given that tourism is one of the core branches of Martinique’s economy. The tourists are attracted by the island’s warm climate, especially in the dry season lasting from December to April, and by its vibrant Creole culture, where the French “savoir vivre” and the Caribbean happy-go-lucky attitudes form a wonderful fusion of incessant enjoyment. And fishing forms an inalienable part of this lifestyle, both on the menu and for the meditative qualities as well as the thrill of the catch. As a base for an offshore big-game fishing trip, Martinique is as good as any other Caribbean island, and its inshore waters provide sufficient habitat for fish as well. Fishing in Martinique is regulated by local maritime authorities, which ensure sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of fish populations. Anglers are encouraged to follow local guidelines to help preserve Martinique’s rich aquatic ecosystems. From the deep waters of the Caribbean Sea, the tranquil coastal reefs, to the serene bays and estuaries, Martinique provides a unique and rewarding fishing experience. Whether you’re casting a line in the fertile waters off Le Marin, exploring the rich biodiversity of the Atlantic coast, or fishing the clear waters of the western Caribbean side, Martinique promises an unforgettable angling adventure. Plan your fishing adventure in Martinique today and explore the angler’s paradise that awaits in this beautiful Caribbean island.

Martinique’s coast is beset with numerous reefs. That provides ample opportunities for reef fishing, even though navigating the western shore in a large craft may be problematic, given that it is exposed to trade winds and waves of the Atlantic at all times. The Martiniquais refer to western coast as “the windward”, and the Caribbean as “the leeward coast”, and the eastern shores are better aligned for nearshore fishing. But once you get offshore, you have all the ocean and the sea at your disposal to chase their biggest denizens.

In the seas around Martinique you can expect to find all species typical for the Caribbean Sea and the corresponding part of the Atlantic. Anglers can target big game fish such as marlin, sailfish, and tuna, as well as dorado (mahi-mahi), wahoo, and mackerel. Inshore, the reefs provide a vibrant underwater ecosystem that supports a wide range of marine life, including various snappers, groupers, and jacks, as well as parrotfish, tarpon and snook.

The varied aquatic environments in Martinique support a wide range of fishing techniques, each suited to different species and conditions. trolling is a widely used technique in the offshore waters, particularly for targeting big game fish like marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi. Spinning is popular for inshore and reef fishing, whereas bottom fishing is effective for catching species like snapper and grouper around the reefs and rocky outcrops. With relatively fewer flats, Martinique is not as popular as a saltwater fly fishing destination, but spearfishing is excellent, particularly around the coral reefs.