One of the best group reef fishing tours is offered by Baxter’s Reef Fishing… it’s done off a small boat Ellen B (32-ft fishing boat). It has an awning so that ample shade is available and is also equipped with a toilet. Captain Michael (Mike) Baxter is your host and he has over 25 years of experience in fishing in Bermuda’s water.
So there is no wasting time looking for fish. He usually starts from Mangrove Bay dock at Somerset (in Sandys parish at the western end and quite convenient for the cruise ship passengers docked at Heritage or Kings Wharf). Captain Baxter is often accompanied by his son Andrew. Both are extremely friendly, active and cooperative.
One great advantage with their boat is it’s small and takes up to 6 people on board. So it somewhat operates like a charter giving attention to everybody and making sure that everybody (novice or experienced) gets ample opportunity to fish. The tackle, bait and even drinking water is provided on board. At the end of the fishing trip, you will certainly end up catching lots of fish.
If you are so interested, Andrew or who ever is with Mike that day will make fillets out of the fishes caught and put them into a bag and give it to you. If you have provisions for cooking, you can go back, cook them and eat … a great ending to a great fishing experience.
They operate every day if the weather permits. They have a regularly scheduled trip in the morning (from 8:30 am to 12:30pm) and in the afternoon (from 1pm to 5pm). The boat leaves from the public dock of Mangrove Bay at Somerset.
The per person rate is $110 for adult (for a child below 12 years the rate is $85). You can also charter the boat for half day for $650. They accept all major credit cards. Mike is extremely knowledgeable and will share a lot of information about the island and every catch that you make. If you do not plan to eat the fish, you will be encouraged to release the fish.
Call 441-234-2963 or 441-334-9722
For more information, please visit www.bermudareeffishing.com
