Fishing

Fishing, Cayo Largo, Cuba

Cayo Largo is part of a Marine Nature Reserve where fishing is strictly controlled. It is forbidden to fish in Cayo Largo, including all surrounding waters. This ban applies to everyone, except for clients of the Avalon outfitter (specialized fishing) and the Marina Marlin (deep-sea fishing).

Shore fishing

You can not fish on your own anywhere on the island. DIY fishing is strictly forbidden, "Prohibido Pescar" signs are posted everywhere, and the fines are hefty.

Deep-Sea Fishing

For detailed information on this type of excursion, visit our Deep-Sea Fishing page

Fly Fishing (specialized fishing)

The AVALON outfitter (cubanfishingcenters.com) has the exclusive right to fish in this protected area since 2008. Fishing trips must be booked in advance. Their premises are located at the Hotel Villa Marinera (adjacent to Marina Marlin). See here a Map of the Pueblo and Marina

Cayo Largo's fly-fishing areas are made up of large mangrove islands, bays, and huge flats of compact sand, semi-soft marl, or turtle grass. Fly-fishing is possible both from skiffs and by wading. Cayo Largo is often considered as Cuba's best and most varied fishing destination, and the permit and bonefish Mecca. A large shallow underwater platform along the northern coast of Cayo Largo offers a vast expanse of fishable flats where permits (family Carangidae) abound, making Cayo Largo one of the best destination in the world for permit fishing.

The fishing season runs from November to August; the months of September and October are not recommended because of the higher risk of hurricanes and tropical storms. The peak of the fishing season is from February to June, when all species are present (tarpon, bonefish, permit, jacks, etc.). The beginning of the season (November to January) is also a good time with plenty of big bonefish on the flats and mangroves, and fishing for tarpon and other species can also be excellent.