5/28/2026  Jomerglo

Great Exuma Fishing Charter Guide: Deep Sea, Bonefishing & Reef Fishing Trips

INTRODUCTION

Great Exuma is one of the leading fishing destinations in The Bahamas, attracting anglers seeking deep-sea sportfishing, reef fishing, bonefishing, and offshore charter experiences throughout the Exuma island chain. The geography surrounding Great Exuma creates access to both shallow flats and deep offshore waters within relatively short boating distances, allowing visitors to target multiple species during a single trip.

Fishing charters operate from George Town, Emerald Bay, Rolleville, Black Point, Staniel Cay, and surrounding marinas, offering guided experiences for beginners, experienced anglers, families, and tournament fishermen. Offshore waters along Exuma Sound are known for pelagic species such as mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and marlin, while shallow banks and tidal flats provide some of the Caribbean’s most respected bonefishing environments. 

Travelers researching fishing charters in Exuma often combine trips with boating excursions, snorkeling, beach hopping, and marina stays throughout the islands. Visitors planning broader itineraries should also explore the complete Exuma travel guide and related boating articles. 

TYPES OF FISHING CHARTERS IN EXUMA

Deep Sea Fishing Charters

Deep-sea fishing trips in Great Exuma target larger offshore species along the steep drop-offs of Exuma Sound, where deep water approaches close to shore.

Common catches include:

  • blue marlin

  • mahi-mahi

  • tuna

  • wahoo

  • kingfish

  • sailfish

Many offshore charters use trolling techniques and may combine reef fishing depending on conditions. 

Bonefishing Charters

Exuma is internationally recognized for bonefishing across shallow white-sand flats around Great Exuma and Little Exuma. Known as the “grey ghost,” bonefish are highly valued among fly-fishing anglers because of their speed and challenging behavior. 

Most bonefishing charters focus on:

  • fly fishing

  • flats fishing

  • shallow-water wading

  • skiff-based guiding

Guides typically accommodate beginners as well as experienced fly anglers.

Reef & Bottom Fishing

Reef fishing trips operate around patch reefs, coral structures, and shallower banks surrounding the Exuma islands.

Popular species include:

  • snapper

  • grouper

  • amberjack

  • grunts

  • barracuda

These trips are often family-friendly and may include snorkeling or conch diving stops. 

Mixed Adventure Fishing Trips

Some charter operators combine:

  • fishing

  • snorkeling

  • sandbar visits

  • beach stops

  • island hopping

These hybrid excursions are especially popular with groups and families visiting Great Exuma.

BEST AREAS FOR FISHING IN EXUMA

Exuma Sound

The eastern side of Great Exuma drops rapidly into deep Atlantic water, creating prime conditions for offshore sportfishing.

This area is known for:

  • marlin

  • tuna

  • wahoo

  • mahi-mahi

  • sailfish

Elizabeth Harbour

Elizabeth Harbour provides calmer waters for:

  • light tackle fishing

  • reef fishing

  • family charters

  • smaller boats

Great Exuma Flats

The shallow western banks and southern flats around Great and Little Exuma are among the island’s best bonefishing areas. 

Exuma Cays

Fishing routes around Staniel Cay, Black Point, Compass Cay, and surrounding cays combine offshore and reef fishing opportunities with scenic island cruising.

POPULAR FISHING CHARTER OPERATORS

Exuma Fly Fishing

This locally guided operation specializes in bonefishing and reef fishing experiences around Great Exuma with trips designed for both beginners and experienced fly anglers. 

Bonefish Olie

Bonefish Olie focuses on guided bonefishing experiences throughout the Exuma flats and surrounding shallow-water fishing areas. 

Crystal Bay Exuma Fishing Charters

This operator offers deep-sea fishing, reef fishing, and offshore trolling trips departing from southern Great Exuma. 

Fish Rowe Charters

Known for deep-sea and deep drop fishing, Fish Rowe Charters operates larger offshore trips targeting pelagic species throughout Exuma waters. 

Great Guana Cay Adventures

This operator in Black Point offers reef fishing, spear fishing, and deep-sea charter trips through the Exuma Cays. 

BEST FISH TO CATCH IN EXUMA

Offshore Species

  • blue marlin

  • mahi-mahi

  • wahoo

  • yellowfin tuna

  • blackfin tuna

  • sailfish

Reef & Bottom Species

  • grouper

  • snapper

  • amberjack

  • barracuda

  • triggerfish

Flats Species

  • bonefish

  • permit

  • tarpon

Fishing opportunities vary seasonally depending on migration patterns and weather conditions. 

BEST TIME FOR FISHING IN GREAT EXUMA

Fishing takes place year-round in Exuma, though conditions and target species vary seasonally.

Winter & Spring

Popular for:

  • offshore trolling

  • wahoo

  • tuna

  • reef fishing

  • cooler boating weather

Spring & Summer

Known for:

  • marlin activity

  • mahi-mahi

  • calmer seas

  • bonefishing conditions

Year-Round

Bonefishing and reef fishing remain available throughout most of the year depending on tides and weather.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON A CHARTER

Most Great Exuma fishing charters include:

  • rods and reels

  • bait and tackle

  • licensed captains

  • coolers and ice

  • safety equipment

Some operators additionally provide:

  • snorkeling gear

  • refreshments

  • fish cleaning

  • lunch packages

  • beach stops

Trip lengths commonly include:

  • half-day charters

  • three-quarter day trips

  • full-day excursions

  • multi-day sportfishing itineraries

TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION

Best Departure Areas

  • George Town

  • Emerald Bay

  • Rolleville

  • Staniel Cay

  • Black Point

Best For

  • sportfishing

  • fly fishing

  • reef fishing

  • families

  • offshore trolling

  • eco-tourism

  • island hopping

Skill Level

Trips are available for:

  • beginners

  • families

  • experienced anglers

  • tournament fishermen

Recommended Gear

Although most equipment is included, visitors may wish to bring:

  • polarized sunglasses

  • reef-safe sunscreen

  • hats and sun protection

  • motion sickness medication

  • lightweight fishing clothing

FAQS

What types of fishing charters are available in Exuma?

Great Exuma offers deep-sea fishing, bonefishing, reef fishing, trolling, bottom fishing, and mixed excursion charters. 

Is Exuma good for bonefishing?

Yes. Exuma is considered one of The Bahamas’ top bonefishing destinations because of its shallow flats and clear water. 

What fish can you catch in Exuma?

Common catches include mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, marlin, grouper, snapper, amberjack, barracuda, and bonefish. 

Where do fishing charters leave from in Great Exuma?

Most charters depart from George Town, Emerald Bay, Rolleville, Staniel Cay, and Black Point.

Do Exuma fishing charters provide equipment?

Yes. Most charters include rods, reels, tackle, bait, and safety gear.

When is the best time for deep-sea fishing in Exuma?

Spring and summer are often considered prime seasons for offshore species including mahi-mahi and marlin.

Are Exuma fishing charters family-friendly?

Yes. Reef fishing and mixed excursion charters are especially popular with families and beginner anglers.

EXPLORE MORE EXUMA GUIDES

Related guides connected to this topic include:

LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT

Fishing culture in Great Exuma connects George Town, Elizabeth Harbour, Little Exuma, Staniel Cay, Black Point, and the wider Exuma Cays through offshore sportfishing, flats fishing, reef fishing, and boating tourism. The surrounding marine ecosystems support both local fishing traditions and international charter tourism while reinforcing Exuma’s broader reputation as one of The Bahamas’ premier boating and outdoor recreation destinations. 

CONCLUSION

Great Exuma offers one of the Caribbean’s most versatile fishing environments, combining deep offshore sportfishing, shallow-water bonefishing, reef fishing, and island-hopping charter experiences across the Exuma chain. Whether targeting marlin offshore, stalking bonefish across shallow flats, or reef fishing near coral structures, visitors gain access to diverse marine environments within short boating distances.

Fishing charters also connect naturally with Exuma’s broader travel experience, including boating, snorkeling, beach exploration, and marina culture. Travelers planning extended stays should continue exploring related Exuma boating and beach guides for deeper route planning and destination coverage. 

Great Exuma, George Town, Elizabeth Harbour, Little Exuma, Staniel Cay, Black Point, Exuma Sound, Exuma Cays, deep sea fishing, bonefishing, reef fishing, marlin fishing, mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, snapper, grouper, offshore trolling, flats fishing, Bahamas fishing charters