There’s something uniquely exhilarating about deep fishing from a catamaran in the British Virgin Islands, especially when there are numerous target species which are all fast, hard-fighting adventures. The BVIs, with their crystal-clear waters, steady trade winds, and abundant marine life, offer an ideal setting for anglers seeking both adventure and serenity. And when you combine that with the stability and comfort of a catamaran, the experience becomes unforgettable.
Why a Catamaran?
Unlike traditional monohull boats, catamarans provide a wide, stable platform that makes offshore fishing not only more comfortable but also more efficient. Even when you’re miles out in deeper water, the twin hulls cut smoothly through the Caribbean swells, reducing the rocking motion that can quickly wear down even seasoned anglers. This stability is especially valuable when trolling, as it allows for precise line control and better lure presentation.
Pre Trip Legal Items:
As a non local in order to fish the BVI's you have to obtain a non resident fishing licence. You can get these from a local fishing shop or straight from the BVI Government. A Recreational / Pleasure licence is the most common and required while fishing off of any type of boat while visiting. Cost: ~$45 USD, For casual fishing (trolling, handlines, etc.) and is valid for 1 month. I chose to use a local sporting goods store called "Last Stop Sports". Not only did they acquire the licence for me, I rented all the fishing gear from them and they delivered it all to our boat upon my arrival. There is something to be said for that kind of service. Look them up on your next trip.
Core Trolling Setup:
Rods & Reels
A typical Rod and Reel setup is lighter than big-game gear:
- Rod class: 12–30 lb trolling rod (fast or moderate action)
- Length: ~4–7.5 ft
- Reel: Conventional trolling reel (lever drag preferred)
- Why: Gives control at trolling speeds and absorbs shock from strikes
Rods need enough backbone but still some flex to prevent pulled hooks.
Line & leader
This is critical for BVIs conditions (clear water + fast fish):
- Main line:
- 20–30 lb braid or 20 lb mono
- Leader:
- 30–40 lb fluorocarbon (abrasion resistance + stealth)
Why:
- Mono stretches and absorbs violent strikes
- Fluoro leader is nearly invisible in clear Caribbean water
Many anglers prefer mono for trolling because it cushions a fish's “turn-and-burn” hits
Trolling lures (the real key)
Bonito feed on small baitfish, so your spread should imitate that.
Here's what worked for me. Buy it here: https://amzn.to/4c0YUy7
1. Feathers (must-have in BVIs)
- Small trolling feathers (white, pink, blue, chartreuse)
- Run near surface or slightly below
These are one of the most consistent bonito producers
2. Spoons + drails/planers
- Clark spoons or similar
- Add 2–8 oz drails or small planers to get depth
Helps get lures 5–10 ft below surface where bonito often feed
3. Deep-diving plugs (highly effective)
- Minnow-style lures (Rapala, Yo-Zuri, etc.)
- Run at 4–6 knots
These mimic baitfish perfectly and are deadly along drop-offs.
4. Small jet heads / metal jigs
- Great for higher-speed trolling (5–8 knots)
- Add flash + vibration in choppy water
Especially useful offshore when water isn’t perfectly clear
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Target Species!
Bonito, often mistaken for small tuna, are known for their speed, strength, and aggressive strikes. They travel in schools and are commonly found in deeper offshore waters where currents bring baitfish to the surface. In the BVIs, these fish thrive along drop-offs, reefs, and underwater structures that create the perfect hunting grounds. Early morning is often the best time to head out, when the water is calm and the fish are actively feeding.
Setting out from one of the BVIs’ picturesque harbors, you’ll quickly leave behind the sheltered bays and enter open water. The transition is marked by a shift in color—from bright turquoise to a deep, mesmerizing blue. This is where the real fishing begins. Lines are set, typically using trolling techniques with small, flashy lures or feathers designed to mimic baitfish. Bonito are visual predators, so lure movement and color can make all the difference.
One of the advantages of fishing from a catamaran is the ability to spread multiple lines without tangling, thanks to the wide beam of the vessel. This increases your chances of hooking into a school. As you troll at moderate speeds, preferably between 4 to 5 knots there’s a quiet anticipation on board. The sound of the reels clicking, the wind in the sails or hum of the engines, and the vast openness of the sea create a rhythm that’s both calming and exciting.
Then it happens—the sudden, unmistakable scream of a reel. A bonito has struck. These fish are known for their explosive runs and sharp turns, making them a thrilling catch even for experienced anglers. The fight is fast-paced, requiring quick reflexes and steady hands. From the deck of a catamaran, you have the space to move freely, adjusting your position as the fish darts beneath the surface.
Once brought aboard, bonito reveal their sleek, torpedo-shaped bodies and striking patterns. While they’re sometimes overlooked in favor of larger game fish, bonito are prized for their fight and can also be used as fresh bait or prepared in a variety of dishes when handled properly. In the BVIs, it’s not uncommon to enjoy your catch later that day, grilled to perfection as the sun sets over the horizon.
Beyond the fishing itself, the experience is enriched by the surroundings. The British Virgin Islands are renowned for their natural beauty—uninhabited cays, hidden coves, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s not unusual to spot dolphins riding the bow wake or seabirds diving into the water nearby, hinting at schools of fish below. The journey becomes as rewarding as the destination.
Fishing from a catamaran also allows for a more relaxed pace. There’s room to lounge between bites, shade to escape the midday sun, and often amenities like a galley or even cabins for extended trips. Whether you’re a serious angler or a casual adventurer, this setup caters to both intensity and leisure.
As the day winds down, lines are reeled in and the boat turns back toward shore. The sun dips low, casting golden hues across the water. Whether you’ve landed several bonito or simply enjoyed the thrill of the chase, there’s a deep sense of satisfaction that comes from a day spent on the open sea.
In Conclusion:
Deep fishing for bonito in the BVIs from a catamaran isn’t just about the catch—it’s about the entire experience. It’s the harmony of ocean, boat, and angler. It’s the stories shared, the skills tested, and the memories made under an endless Caribbean sky. For those seeking a blend of sport and escape, it’s hard to imagine a better way to spend a day on the water.