Fly Fishing in the Virgin Islands: What You Need to Know (Post Arawak Merger)

Big news. Arawak Expeditions has officially joined the Virgin Islands Ecotours family. If you’ve landed here looking for one of their famous fly fishing trips, you’re in the right place — sort of.



While we don’t offer fishing tours ourselves, we’re still big fans of the sport and the peaceful thrill it brings. So if you're hoping to wade the flats with a fly rod in hand or just wondering what happened to Arawak’s guided fishing experiences, we’ve got answers, insider tips, and a few unforgettable alternatives to keep your island adventure going strong.

For years, Arawak Expeditions was the go-to guide for fly fishing in the Virgin Islands. Their trips were never just about the catch. They were about the connection. Crystal-clear flats. The quiet of the morning. That satisfying moment when your line finally tightens.



From Coral Bay to Hurricane Hole, Arawak brought anglers to the hidden corners of St. John where bonefish, tarpon, and good stories lived. We’re proud to honor that legacy by helping visitors experience the islands with the same spirit of discovery.

So Can You Still Fly Fish in the Virgin Islands?

Yes. And it’s fantastic. The Virgin Islands remain one of the most underrated fly fishing destinations in the Caribbean. If you're into stalking bonefish on skinny flats, chasing rolling tarpon, or just giving it a go for the first time, this place delivers.

Where to Cast

• St. John’s East End — shallow flats and calm waters are ideal for bonefish
  
• St. Croix — mangrove shorelines near Salt River are known tarpon territory
  
• St. Thomas — less flats, but productive nearshore spots around Hull Bay and Magens Bay

What You’ll Find

• Bonefish, tarpon, and the occasional permit
  
• Snook, snapper, and barracuda for those looking to mix things up
  
• No fishing license is required for recreational fishing in the USVI

Best Time to Go

• You can fish year-round, but March through July offers the best visibility and conditions
  
• Early mornings tend to be calm and perfect for sight fishing
  

While we do not offer fishing trips ourselves, here are three top-rated charters that do:

• Drift Charters
  Private boat charters that include inshore and offshore fishing. Great for families, first-timers, and serious anglers alike.
• Neptune Adventures
  Inshore and offshore fishing around St. John and St. Thomas with a friendly, knowledgeable crew and well-equipped boats.
• Ocean Surfari – St. John Fishing Charters
  One of the longest-running outfits in the islands. They offer nearshore, offshore, and deep-sea trips with all gear included.
  

Not Fishing This Trip? Try These Instead

If fishing isn’t in the cards this time around, we’ve got some unforgettable ways to dive into the Virgin Islands’ natural beauty. Here are a few of our most popular tours on St. John.

Snorkel with Sea Turtles – St. John

Glide through warm Caribbean waters beside gentle sea turtles and colorful reef fish. A perfect mix of relaxing and awe-inspiring.

Hike & Beach Adventure: Discover Honeymoon Beach on St. John

Hike lush forest trails, then enjoy beach time with access to snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and a shaded chair with your name on it.

Rentals with Easy Pickup at Mongoose Junction

Just steps from convenient parking, our shop in Mongoose Junction makes it easy to grab snorkel gear, kayaks, or paddleboards and head straight to the water. Everything you need for a self-guided adventure is ready when you are.

Even though we don’t offer fly fishing tours, we’re here to help you plan an incredible trip. Whether you're looking for a local fishing guide or the best places to paddle, snorkel, or unwind, we’ve got you covered.

Explore All Tours on St. John

Got questions? Reach out. We’re always happy to help.