What fish can you catch in Guadeloupe ?

The emblematic species of fishing in Guadeloupe

What if you could catch fish that combine power, exoticism, and unique challenges? Guadeloupe is an exceptional playground for sport fishing enthusiasts. Imagine yourself, rod in hand, facing a tarpon, the king of tropical waters, known for its spectacular jumps and aerial fights. Or stalking the bonefish, nicknamed the "ghost of the flats," which tests your nerves with its lightning speed and unpredictable bursts.

Dreaming of memorable catches ? Try the barracuda, an aggressive predator capable of making your reel sing in a flash. And why not target a jack (carangue), this tireless fighter, or even a snook, the "pike of the tropics," which requires a delicate and precise approach?

The best spots for successful fishing

Guadeloupe is full of enchanting places where fishing lovers can thrive. If you want to catch emblematic species like bonefish or snook, the flats and mangroves are must-visits. The flats, these sandy shallow banks bathed in crystal-clear waters, offer an ideal terrain for sight fishing. The bonefish, for example, reveals its sprinting talents there. A simple silver tail cutting through the water can be enough to spot your target.

Mangroves are true aquatic labyrinths, perfect for finding snooks and juvenile tarpons. Renting a kayak is an excellent idea to explore these areas because the roots of mangroves shelter incredible biodiversity. If you prefer the simplicity of the shore, the rocky coasts are also prolific. Casting jigs work wonders there to catch predators like barracuda or jackfish.

For deep water fishing enthusiasts, ports and estuaries deserve your attention. These brackish zones attract a variety of species, including baby tarpons, which feed in low-oxygen waters, making them accessible to those who can observe their surface movements.

Techniques and equipment suited to Guadeloupe fishing

To fully take advantage of Guadeloupe’s fishing riches, having the right equipment is essential. You might be tempted to bring your usual gear, but here, each technique and species demands precise adjustments.

• For example, for the flats, a light rod like the Illex Element Rider Globe Trotter 2154 MH, paired with a 2500 or 3000 size reel, will allow you to cast your lures precisely. Add a PE 0.7 to 1 braided line and a 30/100 fluorocarbon leader for optimal stealth against bonefish, the master of quick escapes.
• On the seaside or in mangroves, choose durable lures. Models like the Riser Bait 008 or Micro Slow Lazy Jigs give excellent results, especially against predators like barracuda or snook. Don’t forget to equip your lines with soft steel leaders to avoid unexpected cuts.
• For rivers and canals, where baby tarpons abound, light gear remains ideal. Prefer soft lures rigged on jig heads from 3 to 7 grams, or sturdy jerkbaits from 70 to 110 mm, capable of withstanding powerful attacks.

Good preparation combined with careful gear choice will make all the difference in your fishing sessions.

Environmental respect: adopting responsible fishing

Fishing in Guadeloupe is much more than a sport: it is a commitment to preserving its unique ecosystems. Mangroves, lagoons, and coral reefs harbor fragile biodiversity essential to the region's balance. To minimize your impact, prefer barbless hooks, which facilitate catch-and-release without causing serious injury.

Also avoid breeding areas during sensitive periods, often between May and September, and familiarize yourself with legal minimum sizes for each species. For example, the tarpon, an emblematic species of the Caribbean, deserves careful handling, especially because of its slow growth.

Equipment choice can also play a role. Opt for biodegradable lures and avoid using non-recyclable plastic lines or leaders. During your outings, make sure to leave nothing behind: even the smallest waste can cause irreversible damage to local wildlife.

Which fish caught in Guadeloupe are edible?

In Guadeloupe, the rich fish fauna allows the capture of many edible species, prized for their taste and texture. Among the most popular is the snapper. Varieties like the pink snapper or mangrove snapper offer tender and flavorful flesh, ideal for grilling or cooking in court-bouillon. These fish, often found near reefs or mangroves, are easy to catch with a line.

Bottom fish lovers will appreciate grouper, whose firm and delicate flesh is perfect for stews. Guadeloupe waters also host mahi-mahi and yellowtail snapper, two pelagic species with fine, lean flesh, especially enjoyed in ceviche or grilled.

However, be cautious with species like barracuda due to the risk of ciguatera, a toxin found in some tropical predators. Checking local recommendations is crucial to avoid any risk.

Finally, the freshwater mountain mullet is an interesting option for light preparations, sometimes reminiscent of trout.

Are there dangerous fish to avoid in Guadeloupe?

Fishing in Guadeloupe is a rewarding experience, but it is essential to know potentially dangerous fish to avoid any mishap.

• Among the species to handle with care, the barracuda is one of the most emblematic.
• Lionfish, although rarely targeted by anglers, are also present. These beautiful creatures, with venomous fins, require extra caution if accidentally caught. Their stings, while rarely fatal, cause intense pain.
• In rocky areas, you might encounter moray eels, especially aggressive when threatened. Their bites, though rare, can cause infections if not treated quickly.
• Finally, some reef fish like the stonefish are hard to spot due to their camouflage, but their venom is extremely painful. Wearing good shoes for shallow water outings is recommended to avoid accidents.

Knowing these risks while adopting responsible practices ensures a safe and enjoyable fishing experience in Guadeloupe.