Turks and Caicos Fishing Charters
Fishing charters in Turks and Caicos can generally be broken down into three types: deep-sea sport fishing charters, bonefishing charters, and reef and bottom fishing charters.
In most cases, booking a trip with one of the local and experienced tour companies is the best way to catch fish (and on some days, a lot of it). Your fishing license is typically included, as is all necessary equipment, refreshments throughout the day, and—for three-quarter or full-day charters—lunch. Some charters include a beach BBQ on a secluded cay where you can grill your catch.
On Providenciales, most companies launch from South Bank Marina, Turtle Cove Marina, or Blue Haven Marina.
This page discusses private fishing charters (for group tours, see Shared Fishing Charters). For general information on fishing seasons, protected areas, and more, see our Turks and Caicos Fishing Guide.
Deep Sea Fishing Charters
Deep-sea and big game fishing charters in Turks and Caicos are typically offered as half-day (4 hour), three-quarter day (6 hour), or full-day (8 hour) trips. This type of angling takes place in the deep blue waters off the subterranean plateau upon which the Caicos Islands archipelago sits.
It’s often only a 10- to 15-minute journey out from the shoreline to deep Atlantic waters offshore where you can drop lines and start trolling (or on some charters, go deep dropping).
The target species varies depending on time of year. Wahoo and sailfish are more common during the cooler winter months. Blackfin tuna, yellowfin tuna, blue marlin, and white marlin are more common summer catches. Other frequent catches with no particular season are mackerel, barracuda, and mahi-mahi.
Game Fishing Vessels
Deep-sea charters typically take place on large sport fishing yachts and catamarans between 40 and 60 feet (12 to 18 m) that can accommodate anywhere from 8 to 15 passengers. Hatteras, Bertram, Viking, and Benchmark are popular makes with charter companies here, and many trawlers have an interior air-conditioned cabin where you can cool off on hot days. They will pull as many as 10 lines at a time, which you can reel in from a fighting chair once a fish bites.
Reef and Bottom Fishing Charters
Reef and bottom fishing is a great option if you want a more casual day of angling or a family friendly option that accommodates all skill levels. It’s the easiest of the fishing types offered in the Turks and Caicos and no previous experience or significant strength is required, as the equipment is less technical and the catch tends to be smaller.
Boats on these trips either drift or anchor near a reef and angle with light rods, bait, and weights, or do some light tackle trolling. Snapper, Nassau grouper, strawberry gruoper (rock hind), skipjack tuna, bar jack, horse-eye jack, triggerfish, and small barracuda are typical catches (some of which you can take home to eat or grill).
Reef and bottom fishing charters travel shorter distances than the typical deep-sea trip. It’s often possible to combine this type of fishing with other water sports and activities, like snorkeling or visiting an uninhabited cay.
Bonefishing Charters and Excursions
The bonefishing in Turks and Caicos is spectacular, thanks to the many shallow crystalline flats found throughout Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, and East Caicos (and off the western side of South Caicos).
Guides typically visit the shallow creeks and flats on these islands by small flats skiffs. These charters provide a more secluded day on the water, often with only two to four guests at a time.
Bonefish, permit, tarpon, and barracuda are possible catches, as is snook (though it’s very uncommon). Guides will usually rent you the appropriate rods and flies.
While it’s possible to go on your own, a knowledgeable and experienced guide can make the difference between catching nothing and bringing in a trophy bonefish or tarpon. See DIY Shore Fishing.
Fishing Charter Costs
Price varies by company, but it's common to pay around $1,600 for a half-day private deep-sea fishing charter and about $4,500 for an 8-hour trip, excluding taxes and fees (2026 price).
The typical full-day bonefishing charter from Providenciales is around $1,600 before taxes.
All tour companies must charge a mandatory 12% government tourism tax on top of base prices. This may not be included in the quoted price. Additional fees may apply.
Bookings and Reservations
Most Turks and Caicos fishing charters can be arranged 4–7 days in advance, though some companies do accommodate last-minute bookings. Bonefishing charters require more advance planning, as there are fewer guides and the best areas can be more challenging to access. In any case, it’s usually best to reserve your charter well in advance of your arrival date to ensure availability.
Fishing licenses are typically included in the quoted cost and procured by the company on your behalf.
Generally, you can get the best rates by booking directly with a company (though some resorts and hotels have arrangements with local water sports operators that allow them to offer special rates). In any case, do a little research ahead of time for an idea of the going prices.
Cancellations
Most operators require a deposit of at least 5% to secure your charter. Cancellation policies vary, but you must usually provide at least seven days’ notice to cancel without penalties. Companies may offer to reschedule you or refund you if the weather or ocean conditions are too poor.
What’s Included
Refreshments and snacks are typically included on excursions, along with lunch for trips longer than half a day. Many companies also offer hotel pickup and drop-off for those staying in Grace Bay.
The larger luxury charters are outfitted with full cabins and top-tier equipment, from heavy-duty fighting chairs and professional tournament-grade reels to state-of-the-art sonar.
Most charters allow you to keep the edible fish you catch. These fish are typically cleaned and fileted by the captain and crew after the charter.
What to Bring
Turks and Caicos experiences intense sun. Bring adequate sun protection (sunscreen, a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, a neck gaiter, and a hat).
Polarized sunglasses significantly cut down on glare (and make it easier to see fish from the boat).
Consider bringing seasickness medication. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your excursion.
Turks and Caicos Fishing Charters
