Castaway Cay Fishing?

[Diznut84]

Has anyone done the fishing excursion on Castaway Cay? How did you like it? Any info you can provide will be GREATLY appreciated!

 

[The Land and Sea Guy]

I hope its fun. I've got my family signed up for this on next weeks 10 day cruise. I read on here a while back that you usually catch about 20 fish each and that you need to call the moment the excursion desk opens for your cruise because it books up in minutes.

 

[jgalecpa]

Sign up, and sign up the first day you can (either 60 day or 90 day mark).

I would sign up for the first one you can do in the AM and that leaves the rest of the day.

We went out last Dec. 26th and had a ball. Caught a bunch of very cool fish, including trigger fish, strawberry grouper, butterfish, etc.

Even hooked into a few sharks for a bit but our tackle wasn't strong enough so we moved to a better spot.

We fished in about 75 feet of sparkling clear water.

Make sure you bring your camera as you get some spectacular shots of the ship as you are out there.

Don't forget to tip the mate!

Jim

PS, The fish below were NOT caught on CC, unfortuantely

 

[dznyacct]

My DH did this on our 7/17/04 western cruise. He really enjoyed it, but wished that it was longer. The next time we do a western he wants to do an all day fishing trip in Key West. Later that afternoon my DH, DS and DS's best friend parasailed. It was their most expensive excursion day and my cheapest. I spent the day on a $6 float and had the most wonderful time!! Anytime I'm stressed at work I think back to that day and smile.

 

[Diznut84]

Thanks for the info. One thing that is a bit unclear to me. What is the range of size of the fish that are caught? Is it mainly small fish that are caught on the Castaway Cay excursion?

Thanks!

 

[tkd lisa]

No, not just small fish. My DH went and he brought in a small sized shark. They hooked a really big shark and everyone on the boat took turns fighting it. It finally broke off after about 30 minutes and they still hadn't gotten it aboard! Definitely worth the money if you like to fish. DH and DS are signed up on the same one as Land and Sea Guy.

 

[jgalecpa]

What is the range of size of the fish that are caught? Is it mainly small fish that are caught on the Castaway Cay excursion?

I'd say that MOSTLY they are in the medium range of 12 inches - 18 inches, a few smaller and Moby Whale on occasion.

While it is not cheap, It is well worth the memory. I fished nearly 1,000 times. I have caught many fish much bigger, but it was one of the most fun trips I ever had.

On our trip, the Mate was a beautiful woman with skin as black as coal. Bob Marley was playing on the CD and she sang along in the most lilting voice you ever heard.

I everytime I hear Bob I am back on that boat.....

Jim

 

[needAcruise]

Do you get to keep the fish? Or is it catch-and-release?

Although I cannot imagine lugging 20 fish back onto the ship. Not to mention onto the plane!

 

[tkd lisa]

I think the Captain might keep some of the prime eating fish, but I know that you don't keep them. I'd have to ask DH to be sure, and we're leaving so early in the morning (yeah, can you say less than 24 hour dance????) that I don't think I'll be able to post the answer. If I remember tonight, I'll try to pop on with his answer.

 

[RellingTwin]

DH and DS have done this 3 times. They had a blast. Sign up at 8am the 1st day you are allowed.

 

[tkd lisa]

I just called DH and asked him. He said that he can't swear to it, but he kind of remembers the Captain keeping a grouper or snapper or two.

 

[wayneg]

Is this trip suitable for the absolute beginner. Never been fishing but want to take DS next October.
Wayne

 

[afr117]

Does the excursion boat have any sort of seats or harnesses to use while fishing? My DH has some balance issues and I would not want to sign him up for this if there was a chance of him falling in the ocean. Thanks.

 

[disneylover5]

Yes, this is just fine for beginners......we had the best time.....me (DM47) and 3 teenage boys.......I have not signed up yet, but I guess I should for our next cruise. I did not know it was so popular.

I do not remember any restraints on the boat at all. Very small boat, I think we had 10 of us besides the captain...he did take some fish home for dinner!
They ride over from the Abaco islands...what a great commute to work.

Have fun if you decide to go!