There are several things to consider before you head to the Turks and Caicos Islands to fish or scuba dive. If you are planning to visit, make sure you have a plan of action and know what you are looking for.
North Caicos
North Caicos is known as a tropical island paradise, with miles of unspoiled beaches. This beautiful island is home to a variety of birds, fish and other animals. The area is also a haven for those looking to get away from the crowds.
North Caicos offers visitors a rustic Caribbean travel experience. You can explore the area by bicycle or rent a car. If you are interested in taking a guided tour, there are many available.
One of the most popular activities in the area is reef fishing. Fishing in Turks and Caicos is very rewarding, as there are a number of species that can be caught. Some of the most common fish include snappers, grouper, and bar jacks. In addition, great barracuda and yellowfin tuna can be caught.
Aside from fishing, you can also snorkel and scuba dive in the warm, clear waters of the Caribbean. Snorkeling in the Turks and Caicos Islands is a great way to enjoy the diverse marine life.
There are several companies that offer tours and charters for fishing in the area. Talbot’s Adventures is one of them. It offers private and charter fishing excursions in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Another good company to work with is Catch the Wave. Edward Missick is head of the company, and he runs a large, modern fleet of vessels. He offers custom-made fishing charters, eco-tours, and snorkeling excursions.
Scuba diving in the Turks and Caicos Islands
Scuba diving in the Turks and Caicos Islands is popular for its colorful marine life. The reefs of these islands are home to an amazing ecosystem of coral and sponges. They also support large numbers of Caribbean reef fish. Many of these fish are fascinating, including trumpetfish, blue tangs, filefish, worms, and starfish.
Diving in the Turks and Caicos is open to divers of all skill levels. It’s especially ideal for beginner or intermediate divers. Some of the best scuba diving in Turks and Caicos is located in the Columbus Landfall Marine National Park.
There are 25 moored dive sites in this park. These are all within easy boat rides to excellent reef sites.
During the winter months, you’ll be able to spot humpback whales. While there, you’ll also have the chance to see turtles, eagle rays, and other sea creatures.
Besides the humpback whales, diving in the Turks and Caicos can also be a thrilling experience for shark fans. Bull sharks and lemon sharks are common, and you may also see nurse sharks.
The Turks and Caicos Islands are a wonderful place to visit all year round. You’ll be surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and vast coral reefs.
You can take a weeklong liveaboard dive trip to explore these beautiful islands. A liveaboard operator in Turks and Caicos can get you to some of the most remote dive sites on the banks of the Caicos Banks.
Lionfish in the seas of Turks and Caicos
Lionfish are invasive species that have spread to many areas of the world, including the Caribbean. They are native to the Indo-Pacific, but have escaped their natural habitats.
The lionfish is now found in several parts of the Caribbean, including Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and the Gulf of Mexico. They are now a major problem to local marine ecosystems.
Lionfish are very aggressive fish, and they will eat almost anything. They have the ability to survive in a wide range of water depths, including saltwater and freshwater. Their venomous nature can be dangerous. Fortunately, they are also very tasty and nutritious.
To hunt lionfish legally in the Turks and Caicos, you must have a lionfish license, which costs $60. This is valid for a year. After obtaining your license, you must contact the local authorities.
If you do decide to pursue a lionfish, it is wise to check with local officials about the safety of eating it. Many countries in the warmer Atlantic waters discourage the consumption of lionfish.
When hunting lionfish, you may want to consider spearfishing with a pole spear. A pole spear is a long, straight spear that can be held in one hand. It is usually made of fiberglass or aluminum and comes with a loop of elastic rubber at the base.