Summer of Silversides: The Small Fish That Put On a Big Show

The summer of Silversides in East End is coming to an end  (sadly...). 

Silverside minnows, small bait fish about a couple of inches long, school in vast numbers reaching millions and create a mesmerizing spectacle in the waters around the East End. These silver-colored fish fill caverns and canyons, parting like a wall for divers and other marine life, offering unique diving experiences and photographic opportunities that have even attracted major documentary filmmakers. In 2014, the BBC filmed a segment for documentary at Snapper Hole, diving for 2 weeks to capture the hidden marvel of the silversides and their predators.

"And when you do get silversides up at Snapper Hole, that is a really special experience. I mean, we have them right now at Ironshore Gardens. It's the best bloom that we've had in years. I think it's probably the best bloom that I've ever seen of silversides since I've been here. "

— Manager Evan Verreault

Over the past few months (and during the summer months most years), East End's cavernous dive sites like Ironshore Gardens and Fish Tank provide a summer haven for Silversides, shielding them from predators such as Jacks and Tarpon. As massive schools of Silversides move in unison, they create mesmerizing "waves" in reaction to divers or other movements, offering unforgettable moments as they elegantly weave around you. This unique experience is unlike interactions with other fish species.

If you have the chance to be in Grand Cayman during the summer, you won't want to miss out on this unique experience. Be sure to book a dive with Ocean Frontiers so we can bring you right into the action and excitement of the Silverside blooms in East End.

 

About Ocean Frontiers Ltd.

Ocean Frontiers Dive Shop is located on the remote East End of Grand Cayman. Founded in 1996 with one dive boat and a dream to introduce divers to the wonders of East End diving, the company has grown into one of Cayman’s premier dive operations. In 2023, it was voted the Caribbean region's Best Dive Operator in SCUBA Diving Magazine's Readers Choice Awards, taking first place in 7 categories. Recognized for legendary customer service and the island’s friendliest staff, Ocean Frontiers also stands out for its commitment to conservation. With numerous awards and the distinction of being the first dive operator in the Cayman Islands to receive the PADI Green Star Dive Center accreditation, Ocean Frontiers remains at the forefront of marine conservation and exploration.
 

Give us a call or reach Ocean Frontiers at:

Phone: 1(345) 640 7500

Email: info@oceanfrontiers.com

Physical Address: 344C Austin Conolly Drive, East End, Grand Cayman,Cayman Islands

Mailing Address: Ocean Frontiers Ltd, PO BOX 200 East End,Grand Cayman KY1-1801 Cayman Islands BWI

Local Fax: 1 (345)-947-7600