TOWNSVILLE FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Six Hours on the North & South Drops: A Private Fishing Charter out of Red Hook
A six-hour private fishing charter that targets offshore pelagics and inshore species, departs from American Yacht Harbor with optional St. John pickup — this guide explains what to expect and the operator's policies.
Six Hours on the North & South Drops: A Private Fishing Charter out of Red Hook.
An offshore sport-fishing half-day that can define a Caribbean visit: this six‑hour private charter from Red Hook runs to the North and South Drops to target pelagic species such as mahimahi (dolphin), tunas, wahoo and blue or white marlin, with the option to fish inshore for snappers, groupers, jacks, barracudas, triggerfish and kingfish on light tackle. Neptune Adventures positions these trips to be both exhilarating and relaxing — a compact, focused window to chase large fish or enjoy easy reef fishing with a professional crew.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Pelagics on the Drops; Light‑tackle Inshore Options
The charter is set up to chase offshore pelagic species — mahimahi/dolphin, tunas, wahoo and blue or white marlin — around the North and South Drops, and can shift inshore to pursue snappers, groupers, jacks, barracudas, triggerfish and kingfish with light tackle.
Crew, Tackle and On‑board Basics Provided
Charters include an experienced captain, fuel, up to 20 pounds of fish to keep, water and ice, fishing tackle and bait (live bait when available) and required safety equipment — leaving guests to focus on fishing rather than logistics.
Departure Points, Surcharges and Gratuities
Trips depart from American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook (St. Thomas) with St. John pickup available at the VI Port Authority bulkhead in Cruz Bay; operators apply a $150 fuel surcharge to any six‑hour private charter, and crew gratuities (industry standard ~20%) are appreciated.
What the day feels like
What a Six‑Hour Charter Feels Like
You board at Red Hook or the Cruz Bay pickup and run out to the planned grounds — a compact, purposeful six‑hour window that gives the captain time to work the North and South Drops for fast, offshore action or to switch to nearshore structure for more measured reef fishing. The day balances adrenaline (pelagics and trolling bites) with long, sunlit stretches afloat and the simple comforts of water, ice and a captain handling the details.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator provides an experienced captain, fuel, water and ice, fishing tackle and bait (live bait if available), and safety equipment. Guests may keep up to 20 pounds of fish.
Expect a focused six‑hour outing that can switch between offshore drops and inshore structure; basic provisions (water and ice) and tackle are provided so you can concentrate on fishing.
A $150 fuel surcharge is applied to any six‑hour private fishing charter. During the VINP finger‑pier closure, a temporary $37 dock charge applies for St. John pickups.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need a fishing license?
No — no fishing license or prior experience is required for recreational fishing in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
What does the charter include?
Charters include an experienced captain, fuel, up to 20 pounds of fish to keep, water and ice, fishing tackle and bait (live bait if available) and safety equipment.
How much should I tip the crew?
Crew gratuities are appreciated; the industry standard noted by the operator is 20% of the tour cost.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 48 hours or more in advance of your charter date receive a full refund of the deposit; cancellations with less than 48 hours' notice forfeit $300. The operator reserves the right to modify reservation policies and fees.
Are there additional surcharges or temporary charges?
Yes — there is a $150 fuel surcharge for any six‑hour private fishing charter. While the VINP finger pier in Cruz Bay is closed (April 25 to mid‑August), a temporary $37 dock charge applies for St. John pickups.
Where do trips depart and are there pickup options?
Charters depart from American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook on the east end of St. Thomas. St. John pickup is available at the VI Port Authority bulkhead in Cruz Bay, next to the National Park Visitors Center.