The Bahamas has long been a beacon for anglers, with its turquoise waters and abundant marine life, drawing enthusiasts from across the globe. Yet, amid this tropical paradise, Bimini, Long Island and the Abacos stand out as the crown jewel of angling destinations.
The laid-back trio of islands offer a pristine, untamed setting where nature reigns supremely. Here, anglers can cast lines in waters teeming with trophy catches like Blue Marlin, Swordfish or Tuna or species attracted to the destination’s reefs such as Snappers, Groupers or Jacks, all while immersed in breathtaking, unspoiled landscapes. With every cast, these islands promise not just a catch, but a story to tell – set against a backdrop of endless turquoise horizons that linger long after the trip ends.
Fishermen and adventure travelers can find practical tips and learn more about what each angling haven has to offer below:
Bimini: Known as the sportfishing capital of the Bahamas, Bimini lies just 50 miles from Florida, where the Gulf Stream fuels waters that have produced over 50 world-record catches. Anglers flock here for blue marlin (peak season: June-August), wahoo (November-February) and yellowfin tuna (April-July), drawn by the thrill of deep-sea battles. The waters are a magnet for marlin and tuna, accessible through charters like Bimini Big Game Club, whose seasoned captains navigate these prolific waters. Travelers can reach Bimini via a convenient ferry from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades, operated by Baleària Caribbean, offering a scenic 2-hour ride with regular departures. Beyond fishing, Bimini’s laid-back vibe – think dockside conch shacks and vibrant sunsets – adds charm to the experience.
Long Island: This gem offers a rare blend of world-class bone fishing and offshore prowess. The western flats, particularly around Stella Maris, are a bonefish mecca, with trophy-sized fish (year-round, largest November-March) thriving in crystal-clear shallows. Offshore, the Atlantic yields blue marlin and wahoo along dramatic drop-offs. Local legend James “Docky” Smith, based at Stella Maris Resort, guides anglers through Glenton Sound’s protected flats, sharing decades of insight on tides and fish behavior. Long Island’s rugged coastline and quiet beaches provide a serene backdrop, making it ideal for anglers seeking solitude.
The Abacos: Spanning a 120-mile chain of cays, the Abacos are a fishing mosaic, offering bonefish on the Marls’ intricate flats and marlin or tuna in deep offshore waters. Treasure Cay and Green Turtle Cay serve as prime hubs, with bonefish abundant in summer and fall (June-October) and mahi-mahi or marlin peaking in spring and summer (April-July). The Marls, a vast shallow-water network, rewards wade-fishing, while offshore grounds near the Atlantic’s edge deliver big-game thrills. Charters from Treasure Cay Marina cater to both, with guides who know every channel and drop-off. The Abacos’ pastel cays and vibrant marine life add a picturesque layer to the adventure.
Sportfishing and off-the-grid travel are surging, and Bimini, Long Island and the Abacos deliver with optimal seasons, expert guides and stunning natural beauty. These islands are where anglers chase their next great catch. If this story interests you, high-resolution images can be found HERE and additional photos, angler quotes or more information can be provided as needed.