In October, the Wahoo is known to be more common around the island. Spring to summer are the main months to catch Mahi-Mahi also known as Dolphin fish. Marlin and sailfish can be caught all year but the summer months tend to be the best for this catch.

The waters surrounding the dual-nation island of St. Martin/Sint Maarten are rich with Caribbean staples, but the most "local" and sought-after fish is the Red Snapper. It is the centerpiece of the island's famous "lolos" (traditional open-air BBQ stands), typically served grilled whole with Creole seasoning. Other prominent local catches include Mahi-Mahi (often called "Dorado"), Yellowfin Tuna, and Grouper. In 2026, you will also frequently find "Jacks" (small, oily fish) being fried up as a crispy snack by local fishermen in Grand Case. Another unique local delicacy is Caribbean Spiny Lobster, which, while technically a crustacean, is the most iconic seafood export of the island. Travelers should look for "Catch of the Day" menus in the French side’s culinary capital, Grand Case, where traditional techniques like "Accras de Morue" (salt cod fritters) highlight the historical reliance on preserved and local fish. Sustainable fishing practices in 2026 ensure that these species remain abundant, though seasonal "closed periods" for lobster are strictly enforced to protect the population.