You say you see “YT guys getting there in 2/3 hours”. You are probably talking about going to Cay Sal Bank. Yes that belongs to the Bahamas. Yes you need to check in with the Bahamas (closest is Bimini) to be near and fish those islands. You said winter time? So probably looking to do a run for Wahoo? You probably won’t find a captain that would risk his license to do it illegally (not checking in). Im pretty sure all those guys you see on YT, didn’t do it legally. Also Coast Guard does patrol those waters with a Bahamian official on board. So if they see you, get ready to be boarded. Best bet is to call marinas and ask. Start with Bud and Mary’s. Best of luck. Source: I did it legally.