Fly Fishing

St. John Fly Fishing Charters

Tarpon, bonefish, permit, jacks, bonitos, and yellowtail snapper on the fly — guided by Captain Dustin in the inshore waters of the US Virgin Islands.

The Day

Sight-cast the flats, chase the roll.

On our fly fishing charters, we target tarpon, bonefish, permit, jacks, bonitos, and yellowtail snapper. These fish offer a mix of power, speed, and challenge, making every trip a dynamic experience for seasoned anglers and beginners with basic casting experience alike.

Sight-casting tarpon in shallow clear water, working deeper channels, and searching for rolling fish in backwater lagoons all create different opportunities depending on conditions. Each day on the water brings a new chance to connect with the island's marine life.

Skill Notes

Comfortable with a saltwater cast?

To get the most out of a fly-fishing charter, we recommend practicing before the trip. Anglers should be comfortable with basic saltwater casts, a back cast, double haul, and casting up to roughly 50 feet. Captain Dustin is happy to offer tips and hands-on guidance throughout the day.

Tarpon
Bonefish
Permit
Jacks
Bonitos
Yellowtail Snapper
Conservation

All tarpon catch-and-release

Tarpon are unhooked, kept in the water for photos, and released safely. Tail Runner is built around responsible fishing and respect for the waters around St. John.

A Drive Into the Distance

A long cast, a tight loop — a look at fly work on the St. John flats.

St. John Flats · USVI

Orvis Helios · tight loops

Coming Soon
Online Booking

FareHarbor is on its way

For now, call, text, email, or message us on Facebook to lock in your charter.

Fly Fishing FAQ

On the Fly

Casting, gear, and conservation questions specific to our fly fishing charters.

Do fly anglers need experience?+

Some saltwater fly experience helps. If you're not sure whether your casting is ready, give us a call and we'll talk it through.

Can beginners book a trip?+

Yes. All skill levels are welcome on spin and fly trips. Captain Dustin is happy to coach first-timers throughout the day.

Can we keep the fish we catch?+

Tail Runner primarily practices catch and release. Tarpon are always released. If guests catch a legal food fish and want to keep it, it can be filleted for them.

Do you fish in Virgin Islands National Park waters?+

No. Tail Runner Charters does not fish in National Park waters.

How many guests can you take?+

Up to 4 guests for the snorkel/fish combo and up to 3 anglers for fishing-only trips.

What sunscreen should we bring?+

Reef-safe sunscreen only — no spray sunscreen, please. It protects St. John's reefs and keeps the boat's deck safe.

Ready to fish St. John?

Book a private inshore fishing charter, fly fishing trip, tarpon mission, or snorkel/fish combo with Tail Runner Charters.