Virgin Islands Fishing & Outdoors
A MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR
A MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNORNestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the United States Virgin Islands is home to a wide variety of marine life. Many of the world’s most precious aquatic animals find solace and protection in our beautiful waters, including migrating whales and nesting sea turtles. Although Hurricanes Irma and Maria threatened both human and marine life, the Virgin Islands remains America’s Paradise.
These islands offer unique experiences for residents and visitors including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and sports fishing. Our balmy weather and constant tradewinds ensure our place as the premier destination for world-class sailing competitions. Anglers will appreciate the blue marlin, wahoo, king mackerel and tuna that abound in our waters.
We are entrusted with maintaining our breathtaking shorelines and pristine aquatic environment with laws that defend our coastal zone and have recently implemented a ban on single use plastic bags to help protect marine life. As our community learns more about how climate change affects our islands, we strive to both prepare and implement best practices.
Whether you are a day tripper or spending the season with us, we are pleased to share our paradise and truly hope you enjoy your time here.
Sincerely,
Kenneth E. Mapp, Governor
2026 BASTILLE DAY KINGFISH TOURNAMENT SET FOR JULY 12
Stretching 500 miles across the northern side of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, the Puerto Rico Trench is the deepest in the Atlantic Ocean. Mar 3rd, 2026Fishing for a great getaway?
Stretching 500 miles across the northern side of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, the Puerto Rico Trench is the deepest in the Atlantic Ocean. Feb 27th, 2026What Happened to Our Fish
An education series for coastal anglers, for recreational fisherman, by recreational fishermen. It’s Time to Balance Our Use of Coastal … Feb 8th, 2019USVI Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) Program
Fish aggregating devices (FADs) have been deployed in the waters surrounding the U.S. Virgin Islands by the USVI Department of … Feb 7th, 2019France’s Courtois Wins 2018 WIM Series Finale at Carlos Aguilar Match Race
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (December 2, 2018). Maintaining control, rather than having to regain control, is a strategy that … Feb 8th, 2019Virgin Islands Fishing Reports
Winter Fishing
By: Capt. Dave Stephens As we bring in March, we also bring in the spring warmer weather. After some seriously … Feb 28th, 2026Changing Temps
By: Capt. Billy Norris Last month was a wild one! It felt like we went through three different seasons with … Feb 28th, 2026Slow It Down
By: Joe Sheaffer It has been a challenging season. Cold temperatures and low water have made it difficult to consistently … Feb 28th, 2026Naples Fishing & Outdoors
Snook and Tarpon
By: Capt. Roan Snook season is upon us and no better bait to break out than the Mega and Magnum … Feb 28th, 2026
May’s Action
By: Capt. Bart Marx The cool fronts have slowed and it’s now easier to travel offshore. The annual migration of … Apr 30th, 2025
Protect Beach Wildlife from Fireworks this July Fourth Weekend
Thinking about taking fireworks out to the beach for an Independence Day celebration? Some things to keep in mind! Although … May 31st, 2024
Bald Eagles Rely on Careful Anglers
Boaters along Florida’s waterways often see Ospreys perched atop a channel marker or soaring overhead, but sometimes a closer look … Apr 30th, 2024Fishing Tips & Advice
Important Update on Navigating Wiggins Pass
by Alan Ritchie All mariners that use the waters in southwest Florida are aware that conditions are dynamic and are … Apr 1st, 2019
Boat Engine Tips & Tricks
by Kit Sawyer There are several things to look over before using your boat, such as pulling the drain plug … Sep 1st, 2018
When it comes to barotrauma, the right tools mean everything.
It’s that time of year when you may be fishing for snapper and grouper. Continue your role as a conservationist … Aug 1st, 2018Monthly Newsletters
Marine Industries of Collier County
USCG Auxiliary’s Flotilla 96