Fishing (not deep sea) options near Montego Bay

Hey Cheri – thanks for reaching out! And yes, $300 USD for two hours can be a bit much for the budget-conscious traveler. Thankfully, fishing in Jamaica doesn’t always require a boat or a big budget. There are plenty of locals who still fish from the shoreline or riverbanks using simple line and hook setups, and your guest can have a similar experience too.

Here are some solid, low-cost alternatives:

👉🏿 Shoreline Fishing – Off dead end beach in Montego Bay, Bluefields Beach in Westmoreland, or even the rocky coastline around Reading or Sandy Bay are known to be active fishing areas. Your guest can carry or rent a simple rod and fish early morning or late afternoon alongside the locals.

👉🏿 River Fishing – If you’re near the Great River (Hanover/St. James border) or parts of the Martha Brae, there are calm areas where locals often cast lines for freshwater fish. Just be mindful of private land access and speak with someone local for best entry points.

👉🏿 Link with a Local Fisherman – Sometimes, the best and most affordable experience is to simply ask a local fisherman if your guest can tag along or even rent a hand line. Many are open to sharing their craft for a small fee or even a tip. Your guest will not only fish but get a true Jamaican experience!

👉🏿 Community-Based Tours – Look into fishing tours organized by community tourism networks in smaller districts. Some rural parishes (like in Portland or Westmoreland) offer authentic, affordable excursions for visitors — you just need to dig a little deeper than TripAdvisor.

If your guest doesn’t have equipment, ask around locally — many tackle shops or even small hotels near the coast may have something to borrow or rent.

📚 Recommended reading: Jamaica on a Budget - Discovering Paradise Without The Price Tag!

📅 Last updated: May 15, 2025

🔗 Feel free to share this article with others who may find it helpful. 💬 Got another question about budget travel or local experiences in Jamaica? Ask me here – happy to help make your visit memorable.