You’re no stranger to the sea: you crave the anticipation that follows the first cast, you love the thrill that comes with a tug on a fishing rod and the whirring of a hooked line. If the battle between man and fish calls to you, then you’ll absolutely want to visit these picks for the ultimate fisherman’s experience. From one sea-lover to another, here’s your fishing bucket list of top fishing destinations in the entire world (and a few in our own backyard).
Watamu, Africa
Watamu, Kenya is recognized worldwide as one of the top destinations for game fish. Numerous tournaments are held here, in fact, the ILTTA World Championships took place here in 1997. Sailfish, Black Marlin, Blue Marlin and Broadbill Swordfish are common catches in these parts.
Fishermen from all over the world flock to experience the incredibly diverse array and high concentration of large game fish. The fishing season here begins in July, and certain fish can be caught well into April.
Mekong River, Thailand
Thailand is home of the Mekong Giant Catfish. These beasts can weigh over 600 pounds and are the largest freshwater fish in the world. Their natural habitat is within a portion of the Mekong River. However, because of its status as a critically endangered species, they are only available through private stocks.
The Bahamas
More than 50 fishing records have been caught in these waters. Visit Bimini, declared the sport fishing of the world. Throughout the Bahamas, a fisherman will find a number of notable game fish including white and blue maring, giant tuna, bonefish, tarpon, amberjack and barracuda (just to name a few). Besides checking off your fishing bucket list, the Bahamas features world-class resorts for a top-tier vacation spot as well.
Nova Scotia, Canada
Treat yourself to the giant bluefin tuna, the largest species of tuna in the world. Weighing well over 1,000 pounds, these massive beauties are hard to find due to overfishing by commercial fisheries. While recreations fishing is still allowed, catch and release is highly encouraged.
Congo River Basin, Africa
Not only are these fish big, but they are fierce. Nicknamed the “Demon Tooth, Monster of the Congo River”, the Goliath Tigerfish is difficult to reel in. Weighing over 100 kg, these fish easily topple anglers. Considered one of the world’s most powerful fish (and most difficult to catch) this is a worthy challenge for the fishing bucket list.
Visit the Congo when the weather is drier for low and clean water (rain would stir up the river floor and make it murky). Large pieces of fish flesh would be much more effective than any fancy lures.
The Keys
From Islamorada to Key West, the entire chain of islands is a fisherman’s paradise. With the tropical, ever-warm climate, these waters are teeming with fish. Sailfish, in particular, are famous for frequenting the area between January and May. If you’re looking for a fight, a 400-pound Goliath Grouper might be more up your alley.
Whether you catch “the big one” or not, it’s hard to mind when you can offshore at one of the many fishing-friendly resorts. Come for the fishing, stay for the Key Lime Pie.
Where will your fishing adventures take you? If you find yourself longing to travel the seas, The Advantage offers luxury yacht charters in South Florida. From 4-hour charters to multi-day excursions, you can experience all the wonders the open ocean has to offer with zero of the hassle. Contact The Advantaged Yacht Charter & Sales today!