best fishing trips in the world

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World’s Greatest Fishing Destinations

• By Alex Suescun
• Updated: September 21, 2007

When it comes to dream fishing destinations, every angler has his or her own bucket list. But here’s a collection (in no particular order) of both domestic and international destinations offering outstanding angling opportunities that warrant consideration among the world’s best.

Key West, Florida

Key West is another destination plastered all over angling’s record books, and with good reasons: it is home to some of the most innovative and experienced charter captains anywhere, the waters that surround the southernmost town are loaded with dozens of varieties of quality fish, and the weather is conducive to year-round fishing. From billfish to dolphin, offshore anglers tangle with all the regional favorites, including sailfish, blue marlin, wahoo, and blackfin and yellowfin tuna. On wrecks and reefs, harbor amberjack, muttons, yellowtail and mangrove snapper, African pompano, cobia, and various groupers, including the giant goliath. Shark hunters here get hammerheads, bulls, lemons, blacktips, and even tigers in their crosshairs. And inshore, tarpon, permit, and bonefish lead the parade, which also includes barracuda, sharks, snappers, and in a few spots, snook and redfish.

Iztapa, Guatemala

When it comes to Pacific sailfish, no other destination in the world comes close to matching Iztapa, Guatemala, where for over two decades game boats have been averaging 20 to 30 releases daily during peak season, which runs from November through April , and some have tallied over 50 on particularly good days. Even the shoulder seasons, leading to and winding down from the best fishing period, still offer double-digit chances most days. And sails are not the only billfish around. In fact, there’s a good black marlin run from December through March, with plenty in the 250- to 400-pound range. Blue marlin of similar size add to the fun April through July, and a few striped marlin make a showing from November through January. Vast schools of 20- to 50-pound yellowfin tuna invade the region January through June. And an increasing number of dolphin come within range from March to the end of August, the same period when roosters and cuberas are hot to trot inshore.

Islamorada, Florida

Islamorada has long been in most saltwater anglers’ radar. It has produced a long list of world-record catches, dating back to the 50s, and it continues to offer great prospects with a tremendous variety of offshore, reef and shallow-water species. Some tarpon reside in the area year-round, but the unparalleled numbers traveling through from April through July are something to behold. Bonefish, redfish, snook, seatrout and permit are also popular inshore targets. Sailfishing is superb, especially in late winter and early spring, when the fish chase ballyhoo in as little as 30 feet of water. Dolphin and kingfish action is also excellent, and so is the blackfin tuna fishing over various humps. If that isn’t enough, yellowtail, mangrove and mutton snappers, as well as amberjacks, red, gag and black groupers are plentiful and large in Islamorada reefs and wrecks.

Great Abaco, Bahamas

Located in the northern end of the islands nation, Great Abaco is highly regarded for the abundance of fish and the variety of species available, offering world-class angling in bluewater, the reefs and on the flats. There’s a white marlin run in April and May, also prime time for dolphin. Peak blue marlin season extends from April through July, coinciding with blackfin and yellowfin tuna migrating through the area. Wahoo up to 100-pounds abound in the winter and early spring, and a plethora of bottom dwellers please visiting anglers all year long. The flats are vast and fertile, teeming not only with bonefish, but also with permit, barracuda, sharks and, in some spots, mutton snapper.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Boasting terrific striped bass and bluefish fisheries, Cape Cod’s inshore fishing is highlighted by wild flurries that keep light-tackle and fly addicts coming back from late spring through the fall. But stripers and blues aren’t the only game in town, flounder and weakfish are also plentiful in many areas. Bluefin tuna, another big attraction, are also abundant from June to November. Schoolies of 50 to 150 pounds are successfully targeted by small-boat anglers with stickbaits and poppers on spinning gear. And the giants, some as large as 1,000 pounds, are often thick along offshore banks and ledges, but are frequently caught as close as three miles from shore.

Venice, Louisiana

Perhaps the single most famous destination among redfish anglers, Venice is home to scores of reds ranging in size from 3- or 4-pounders to bulls in the 30-pound class. Speckle trout (aka spotted seatrout) are another coveted inshore species that abounds, and huge black drum and flounder also live and forage in the bayous and marshes. Hundreds of oil and gas platforms provide cover and foraging opportunities for large quantities of sizeable red and mangrove snappers, as well as kingfish, tripletail, amberjack, grouper and cobia. Farther offshore, anglers enjoy regular encounters with dolphin and tap into one of the most prolific yellowfin tuna fisheries in the world. In recent years, wahoo, blue marlin, and even swordfish are being specifically targeted with increasing success.

Hatteras, North Carolina

Smack in the middle of the Outer Banks, one of the fishiest stretches in the east coast of the U.S., Hatteras has plenty to offer both inshore and offshore anglers. Pamlico Sound, and the Neuse and Pamlico rivers host healthy populations of redfish, ranging from small “puppy drum” to monsters of over 50 pounds. Seatrout, flounder also abound from March through December, and striped bass and bluefish show up in droves in April and May, and again in October and November. Packs of hungry cobia migrate along the coast May through July, and kingfish, including smokers of 40-pounds or better, feed ravenously in the area throughout the fall and winter months. Offshore, the white marlin and sailfish bite is red hot during summer and early fall. And yellowfin and bluefin tuna also spend time in the region.

Andros, Bahamas

Despite its size, Andros Island (almost as big as Puerto Rico) lacks the dense population, the urban sprawl, the barrage of tourists, and the boat traffic of more popular island destinations. The fishing, however, is nothing short of spectacular. From the Joulter Cays up north, to the bights in the middle, the south end, and the less-frequented west side of the island, the myriad flats and creeks are home to droves of bonefish, including trophies of double-digit weights, permit, sharks, snappers, and even tarpon. The reefs are equally as productive, with numerous snappers and groupers eager to come out and play. And the “Tongue of Ocean,” a deep drop stretching along the island’s east coast, hosts blackfin and yellowfin tuna, dolphin, wahoo and the occasional billfish.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Some of the Caribbean’s top marlin grounds lie just a short run from Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic, where game boats troll for white and blue marlin over a series of banks between 12 and 20 miles out, in the western side of Mona Passage. Raising a dozen or more marlin when the bite turns on, usually between mid April and early July, is quite common. Sailfish show up now and then. And between billfish strikes, dolphin, tuna and wahoo frequently intercept baits, providing additional excitement and nice fillets or steaks for the dinner table

Piñas Bay, Panama

This is the location of the fabled Tropic Star Lodge , which has yielded countless world-record catches since the early 60s. Other than in October and November, monsoon season in that part of the world, the bluewater and reef fishing are both outstanding. The black and Pacific blue marlin bites are strong in January and February, and again from July through December, with lots of 250- to 350-pounders, and a fair number of bruisers weighing north of 500 pounds. Pacific sailfish are in good supply from May through New Year’s, and so are dolphin, which peak January through March, and again August through December. Trolling for wahoo along banks and rocky outcroppings pays off June to December, and both roosterfish and cubera snapper, large and aggressive residents of the region’s rocky coastline, are most prevalent in January and February, and from September through year’s end.

Long Island, New York

Large concentrations of baitfish attract popular game species to Long Island shores. From spring through fall, schools of hungry striped bass and bluefish, including specimens of extraordinary proportions, hang around to feast on the generous supply of forage. The run of false albacore, in August and September, is also legendary, and so is the shark fishing, which during the warmer months features coveted acrobats like makos and threshers in New York Bight, also known for its terrific light-tackle Bluefin tuna fishery in November and December. Offshore, the canyons offer consistent action with albacore, yellowfin and bigeye tuna, and sporadic encounters with wahoo, dolphin, and — during the summer months — white and blue marlin.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

The abundance of Pacific sailfish enabled top big-game captains in the 80s to perfect many of the light-tackle and fly-fishing techniques we still use today, and boats out of Golfito, Quepos, and Los Sueños continue to amass thousands of releases every year, especially January through April, and again in November and December, when dolphin are also most abundant. There’s sporadic action with yellowfin tuna year-round, but there’s a marked influx of big fish in January and February. Closer to shore, roosterfish peak June through September, while cubera snapper heat up from July to the end of the year. Along the surf and inside the mouths of coastal rivers, black snook are available all year, but a higher number of trophy fish is usually found December to April.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

With sport fishing fleets releasing some 2,000 stripes a year, it’s easy to understand why Cabo San Lucas , in Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, is considered “Striped Marlin Central.” While here said fish remain active all year, January through May, and also November and December, are widely regarded as the best months to target stripes, most of which weigh between 120 and 200 pounds. Black and Pacific blue marlin are also common catches, especially July through October. And swordfish, some of which are targeted while finning on the surface, are most abundant from February through the end of May. Though some show up unannounced practically anytime, yellowfin tuna are most numerous the latter part of the year, starting in September. Dolphin, meanwhile, are on the upswing between July and November, and roosterfish from May through August.

Turneffe, Belize

Vast and thriving populations of bonefish and permit are the main draw, but they’re not the only coveted species in abundance. Tarpon cruise grass flats and sandy edges, and congregate along some mangrove shorelines, deep channels and holes. Also on the shallows, large sharks and barracuda are always on the lookout for a tired bonefish or permit. In addition, the reef fishing is not to be missed. Big mutton, mangrove, yellowtail and cubera snapper are found over reefs, often as shallow as 30 to 50 feet, frequently joined by several grouper species, plus mackerel, kingfish and more. Two fishing lodges coexist on this atoll: Turneffe Flats and Turneffe Island Resort, both offering modern boats and seasoned guides.

Cancun, Mexico

Best known for its beach resorts and wild nightlife, Cancun also offers some incredible sailfish action, which starts as early as January, improves steadily with the arrival of large aggregations of baitfish, and peaks from March through May. With wolfpacks of sails corralling bait schools, double and triple headers are commonplace, affording light-tackle and fly-fishing enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to hook up. Dolphin, blackfin tuna, and wahoo, the latter found mostly along deep ledges and submerged banks, often supplement sailfish catches. Inshore, the flats of nearby Isla Blanca offer reliable action with snook and baby tarpon, and occasional encounters with bonefish, permit and seatrout.

Jardines de la Reina, Cuba

With Cuba increasingly accessible to American travelers, we’d be remiss if we didn’t include it among the world’s top angling destinations. Especially Jardines de la Reina, a string of small islands with restricted access off Cuba’s southern coast offering pristine flats where anglers get to target bonefish, tarpon, permit, cubera snapper and a few other species that, in most cases, have never seen a boat before. Many compare the experience to being in the Florida Keys 100 years ago, except the fishing is done from modern flats skiffs, and anglers are now aided by cutting-edge fishing tackle. Lodging is on the water — aboard a yacht — with gourmet meals, and guides are well versed in light-tackle and fly-fishing techniques, and speak enough English to communicate easily with anglers.

Galapagos, Ecuador

Three major currents, the Humboldt, Panama, and Crownwell, converge in the Galapagos region, making the waters around the islands some of the most fertile in the entire world. The list of species that migrate through the area and make extended seasonal stops is quite long, and many — though predators themselves — serve as forage for apex predators like big yellowfin tuna, wahoo, dolphin, on up to very large marlin. The billfishing is good to excellent all year, particularly when it comes to striped marlin, which are present year-round but are most abundant from February through June, when daily release totals can escalate to 3 or 4 dozen. Action with black marlin is more sporadic, but blue marlin catches are pretty consistent, especially from late March to late August.

San Diego, California

The annual migration of baitfish reaches the Southern California coast in mid to late spring, turning red hot the action with large calico bass, white sea bass, halibut, Pacific barracuda, and Pacific yellowtail, much of which is accessible from small boats and even kayaks. Schools of small bonefish also reside in the bays, and offshore waters offer terrific angling for prize species like yellowfin and bluefin tuna, albacore, wahoo, and occasionally dolphin. Long-range trips to the Coronado Islands and various offshore banks yield large numbers of fish, including many trophies, especially from April though October.

Cairns, Australia

There’s no better place on earth to catch black marlin than Australia’s Great Barrier Reef , where from September through December blacks are not only plentiful, they’re also huge. In fact, 70 percent of the granders caught worldwide hail from the stretch between Cairns and Lizard Island. And targeting such leviathans calls for 8- to 30-pound baits, mainly scad, tuna, mackerel, queenfish and rainbow runners. So even making bait is a fun and exciting endeavor, during which wahoo, dolphin and other challenging game fish are often hooked as well.

Hamilton, Bermuda

Long known as a premier big game fishing destination, Bermuda offers excellent wahoo and yellowfin tuna action — practically all year — around a famous pair of submerged pinnacles: Argus and Challenger banks. In addition, white marlin and blue marlin, including some true giants, are plentiful from May through November, and dolphin are also around from late spring to early fall. Reef fishing for snapper and grouper species is fruitful throughout the year. And inshore, the shallows are home to schools of bonefish, and a thriving hogfish population offers fly and light tackle enthusiasts a rare bonus.

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11 Best Fishing Spots in the World

• By Doug Olander
• Updated: July 15, 2022

While most of us fish our own backyards most of the time, we also dream about traveling to some of the best fishing destinations. Dreaming and planning are two very different things, and sometimes it helps to have a list of the best fishing trips in the world to get started.

Luckily arriving at one of the best fishing destinations doesn’t necessarily require flying to the far side of the planet. Nearly all of the 11 best places for fishing cited here are in or near North/Central America. Each is oriented around a particular goal or fish. I ended up with 11 versus the expected 10 because one goal — catch a slam — required both an inshore and an offshore destination.

Prince Edward Island/Nova Scotia, Canada

Why here? 1,496: That’s the weight of the all-tackle world-record bluefin tuna caught here in 1979. Many more weighing better than 1,000 pounds have been taken over the years, and the odds for a bluefin that size are higher off the Canadian Maritimes than anywhere else in the world (with fish commonly more than 800 pounds), as are your chances for the stand-up battle of a lifetime. This is why our team of professional anglers and captains created an unforgettable group fishing trip in Nova Scotia . Fishing is often very near port/land, often less than a mile run. Most boats are equipped with fighting chairs, but if you’re a really hard-core stand-up kind of guy, bring it on. You’ll fish live, chunked or whole fish for bait, often on kites. By law, this is a catch-and-release fishery; however, boats currently are allowed to keep one or two fish per season. Regulations for this controlled fishery are subject to change from year to year.

When : August through mid-October

Cost to get here : $$ (These very general estimates are based on this very rough scale: $ = reasonable, $$ = moderately expensive and $$$ = downright pricey.)

Cost to fish here : $$$

Why here? Quite simply, it’s hard to find a spot anywhere with greater numbers of willing bonefish, permit and tarpon; the odds of releasing at least one of each in a day are remarkably high. The chances for trophy-size fish, especially bones, are better elsewhere. But for numbers (schools of bones in the hundreds aren’t uncommon), action (with bonefish known to be more aggressive than spooky) and slams, Belize is a great bet. The country zealously guards its extensive flats, which remain pristine. The only country in Central America where English is the primary language, Belize is just two or three hours from most southeastern U.S. cities. Many resorts and lodges cater to anglers; guides can range from local pangeros to veteran pros in top-notch flats skiffs.

When : Year-round (For bigger tarpon, plan to fish midsummer to late fall.)

Cost to get here : $$

Cost to fish here : $$

Malindi, Kenya

Why here? The waters off Malindi, on Kenya’s central coast, offer one of the few places on the planet where anglers can realistically hope to accomplish a billfish royal slam, or even a fantasy slam. The latter (which has been done here a number of times) requires five different species of billfish in a day, and they’re all here. In fact, someday, some angler off Kenya might go beyond a fantasy slam to catch the ultimate six species in a day: blue marlin, striped marlin, black marlin, sailfish, swordfish and shortbill spearfish. You can choose from among competent, experienced crews for offshore charters. Closer in, anglers can target giant trevally and other reef fishes, as well as nearshore pelagics. Several hotels in the Malindi/Watamu area offer accommodations, and resorts such as Hemingways also offer charters.

When : Billfish feed in these waters all year, but January through February (summer in this hemisphere) probably offers the best shot at fantasies fulfilled.

Cost to get here : $$$

Cost to fish here : $$ to $$$

Key West, Florida

Why here? Only anglers who have never visited Key West would need to ask. Key West serves as a gateway to the Dry Tortugas and sits in the middle of world-class fishing grounds, where blue water, reefs and flats all beckon enthusiasts. Few communities on the planet are more oriented to anglers and their needs, with a tremendous array of first-rate inshore guides and offshore charters as well as a variety of moorage options. At the same time, Key West offers an endless variety of seafood eateries, a great range of accommodations and, of course, bars of every kind and flavor; it’s a party every night on famous Duval Street! Air Tran, Southwest and Delta fly into the Key West airport.

When : Year-round; winters can be rough, but it’s a great time for sails on the outer reefs and tarpon in the harbor.

Cost to get here : $ to $$

Cost to fish here : $ to $$

Why here? Amazingly productive offshore seamounts and rugged coastline loaded with rocky headlands and nearshore reefs — that’s why. Schools of tuna patrol iconic seamounts such as Zane Grey Bank and Hannibal Bank, where they can be seen frothing the surface while crashing bait, often mixed in with vast schools of dolphin (the mammal). Mahi and wahoo will nail poppers, especially around floating logs. Topwater predators that lurk closer to shore include huge cubera snapper, roosterfish, bluefin trevally, large sierra and other game fish. A mere two-and-a-half hours from Miami and served by many airlines, this tourist-friendly country is a snap to fly into, and the Pacific coast offers many excellent fishing resorts.

When : Year-round, though the coast can be pretty wet during the fall rainy season.

Louisiana/Mississippi Marshes

Why here? Endless shallow-water habitat makes up the vast coastal marshes that stretch from western Mississippi into Louisiana — just the sort of habitat that red drum love. In other words, these marshes offer a huge population of one of the world’s superb game fish for fly-rodders, all in a vast and fabulous sight-casting milieu. Of course there are various other species on hand as well (such as seatrout and black drum ), but with aggressive, hard-fighting reds often in the 15- to 35-pound range, they remain the top target. Nor is there anything difficult about getting here: The marsh begins an hour or two from New Orleans.

When : The fishery is available all year, but winter weather is more erratic than the period from April through December. Look for best shots at big bulls in fall. In general, sunny days up sight-casting ops greatly.

Why here? Any list of top spots for big blue marlin has to include Bermuda, which has proved its bona fides over many decades. No country has won the one-day, global World Cup Blue Marlin Championship as often as Bermuda (eight times in 27 years), including the two largest fish ever caught in that event (1,195 and 1,189 pounds). The largest blue taken here (so far): 1,352 pounds. Beyond blues are white marlin, wahoo and yellowfin tuna. The quick-hop trip (two or three hours from the East Coast) from many U.S. gateway cities via American, Continental, Delta, Jet Blue, U.S. Air and others adds to the destination’s appeal. So do an experienced fleet and the chance to spend time in a very foreign but very safe, civilized and clean country with amazing beaches, fabulous diving, golfing, restaurants and, well, you get the idea.

When : Peak time for the big girls is June through August.

Montauk, New York

Why here? While the season for this fishery is short, when it’s on, it’s really on. The famous bass blitzes in the long tidal rips near shore, as stripers gorge on the huge schools of bay anchovies, are a sight to behold. In few places do bass boil as they do off Montauk; hundreds and hundreds of predators are packed so densely that it’s not uncommon for them to be bumping boat hulls. Add big bluefish, false albacore (little tunny), fluke and, some years, weakfish , and it’s a frenzy of targets for light-tackle (and fly) enthusiasts, with the lighthouse and coastal cliffs adding scenery to match the action. Soft plastics, small metal jigs and various plugs will all get nailed off Montauk.

When : September and October; some years the season might extend through November and even into December, but early fall is the safest time for the best action.

Cost to fish here : $ to $$$

The Bahamas

Why here? No country close to the United States has as great an area of flats or bonefish as large, on the average, as the Bahamas . While it’s hard to go wrong on any flat around these islands, Grand Bahamas flats and the shallows around Andros, Abaco, and Long islands hold great numbers of fish. Besides bones and permit, even tarpon might get in the act along the west side of Andros. Not only are the Bahamas close by, but English is the primary language. Choose from an array of fishing lodges and resorts that cater to anglers with guides who know how to pole their flats skiffs to put fishermen, whether they’re throwing with a fly rod or spinning gear, into big schools of fish.

When : Anytime can be productive, but March through June is the most reliable time for fishing these flats. (Keep in mind that in late summer and early fall, there’s a risk of a hurricane spoiling the best-laid plans.)

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Why here? In many regions, fishing serious blue water means a run of 10 or 20 or even 40 miles before lines go in. On a rough day, you pay your dues at the outset. How does a run of a couple of miles sound? That’s about all you need to start targeting open-ocean pelagics out of the Cabo San Lucas area; many bragging-size marlin, dorado, sails and wahoo have been taken a short distance from shore here, where Pacific Ocean waters mix with the lower Sea of Cortez. And some of the prime banks such as Golden Gate and Gordo can require not much more than a run of 10 miles, depending on your point of origin.

When : Fishable and fished year-round; figure on the hottest action during hot weather for sails, wahoo and dorado, usually May through July. For marlin (stripes, blacks, blues), plan on October or November.

Graham/Langara Islands

Why here? Steep, stunning, craggy, forested slopes overlook some of the most productive fishing grounds in the North Pacific. Sport-fishing pressure is negligible around most of the Queen Charlottes , known to the Haida as Haida Gwaii, except for the few (generally top-notch) fishing resorts — strictly fly-in. During most of the season, the waters around these islands truly teem with schools of salmon: It’s a great place to nail a trophy 50-plus-pound chinook as well as smaller coho and Pacific halibut of truly behemoth proportions. Have that flying harpoon ready! Yet, with good conditions, following an easy morning flight from Vancouver, you can be catching ’em up that afternoon. In the summer, daylight fishing can start before 5 a.m. and last until 10 p.m.

When : This is a very seasonal fishery, generally beginning no earlier than mid- to late May and running through early September.

Cost to get here : $$ to $$$

Cost to fish here: $$ to $$$

Note that this gallery offers 11 of the best spots; that’s a different animal from “the 11 best spots.” There are definitely more “best” fishing spots in the world.Take a look at these ten top places to catch a world record , based on International Game Fish Association files.

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10 Best Billfish Destinations

• By Dave Ferrell
• Updated: May 2, 2019

As editor-at-large of Marlin magazine and director of Marlin Expeditions , I’ve enjoyed the privilege of traveling to some of the best billfish destinations in the world. From Africa to Australia, and just about everywhere in between, I’ve experienced both the good and not-so-good aspects of overseas travel. And although the good times far outweigh the bad, you never truly know what to expect in some of the newly discovered billfishing destinations, and you can easily find yourself in some pretty laughable situations fishing-wise.

I distinctly remember flying for more than 20 hours on one marlin fishing trip and then spending the next four days fishing from private ski boats and converted World War II landing craft. My first Pacific blue ended up swimming into the landing craft’s giant exhaust pipe and asphyxiating. (I was even crazy enough to go back and give the place a second try, and they still didn’t get it right!)

Ever since Sept. 11 and the resulting security crackdown in our nation’s airports, traveling anywhere by plane means getting to the check-in counter at least two hours early and dealing with endless baggage hassles and interminably long lines at security checkpoints. And can anybody tell me why you’re required to take your shoes off and your computer out of its case at one airport and not at another? It just doesn’t make any sense and seems to get worse on every trip.

But it’s not just the security issues that make traveling such a chore these days; the economic crisis over the past few years has sent ticket prices to some of our most popular fishing destinations soaring, and to make ends meet, the airlines keep cutting back on services for its passengers. Who would have thought that you would ever have to pay extra for checking in a bag or bringing a piece of carry-on luggage aboard?

To help you make the most of your billfishing vacation, I’ve put together a list of my favorite places to wet a line that provide excellent numbers but don’t come with an extra side of hassle. Most of these spots are just a two- or three-hour flight from the United States and are listed in no particular order.

Marlin Fishing in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

If catching a blue marlin is the next item on your bucket list, no place on earth provides a more consistent blue marlin bite than the famed North Drop off the eastern end of St. Thomas. This incredibly deep portion of the Puerto Rican Trench holds vast quantities of bait that migrating marlin just can’t resist.Anglers fishing for three days the week before or after the full moons of summer (June, July, August, September) will almost certainly come away with a blue marlin capture. We’ve held a Marlin Expeditions session in St. Thomas almost every year since its inception, and I have to say that from my personal experience, the best time to fish in St. Thomas is whenever you can go! At first I used to make sure that we were fishing the right moon phase, but I soon discovered that boats were sometimes hard to come by during those weeks. Being forced to fish off the moon several times – and doing just as well or better than the full-moon trips – convinced me that as long as you go during the summer, you’ve got a shot at a blue marlin. Fish here average in the 300-pound range, although 500-pounders are not uncommon. St. Thomas even held the all-tackle world record for many years with a 1,282 caught in 1977 by Larry Martin.

As a bonus, you can take a stroll down “A” Dock at American Yacht Harbor and converse with some of the best blue marlin fishermen in the world – and if you go off the moon, you might even be able to convince one of them to take you fishing if the boss isn’t around. And since St. Thomas is a U.S. territory, you don’t even need a passport to experience some of the best blue marlin fishing the Caribbean has to offer.

Capt. Red Bailey, Abigail III

www.visportfish.com

Capt. Eddie Morrison, Marlin Prince

www.marlinprince.com

Billfishing in Costa Rica

Over the past several years, the Central American country of Costa Rica exploded as a must-visit eco-tourism hot spot. Costa Rica set aside almost 20 percent of its land in the form of national parks and protected areas, and visitors can enjoy everything from zipping through the jungle on elevated cables to hiking at the foot of an active volcano. And the fishing ain’t half bad either!

Just a 2½-hour flight from most southern U.S. cities, Costa Rica offers up some of the best marlin fishing in the world. World-record seekers come here for the large numbers of jumbo Pacific sailfish and the swarms of small blue and striped marlin that move in and feed during Costa Rica’s dry season, which lasts from December through March – although this year the bite lasted well into June. All of these species swimming in the same water makes Costa Rica one of the premier spots to pursue a grand slam. Since most of the fish you see will be on the small side – except for the monster-size sails – most anglers fish with 20- to 30-pound tackle and pitch ballyhoo to fish raised on the teasers. There’s no more exciting way to fish for blues, stripes and sails, and Costa Rica sits atop the list when it comes to the pursuit of light-tackle marlin releases.

Los Sueños Resort and Marina at Herradura Bay on the Pacific side represents the most luxurious and hassle-free spot to fish in Costa Rica. Sumptuous accommodations, one of the most modern marinas in Central America and a plethora of charter opportunities make Los Sueños a must-stop spot for traveling boats and visiting anglers alike.If you want to step away from the limelight a bit, try fishing up the coast in Playa Carrillo. This sleepy village hosts the country’s best marlin bites, and a good number of charter boats – and world-record seekers – make this sheltered little bay their home from January through March.

A stable government and an eco-friendly national policy make Costa Rica an attractive destination whether you decide to wet a line or not.

Richard Chellemi, Gamefisher II

www.gamefisher2.com

Hotel Guanamar, Playa Carrillo

www.guanamarhotel.com

Los Sueños, Herradura Bay

www.lsrm.com

Marina Pez Vela

www.marinapezvela.com

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

For some reason or another, it took me 18 years to get around to visiting Isla Mujeres , Mexico, one of the best billfish destinations discovered by traveling American sport-fishers. After hosting a stellar session there, I can assure you that it definitely won’t be another 18!

Meaning the “Isle of Women,” Isla Mujeres lies just a short 20-minute ferry ride from the coast of Cancún. This little bit of paradise hosts an amazing sailfish bite each winter and spring, with ravenous packs of sails balling shoals of sardines at the surface. Some of the sport’s earliest travelers used to make the 350-mile trip from Miami to Isla Mujeres each March on 12-knot boats loaded down with the extra fuel needed to make what back then was a major crossing. Today’s big boats make it down in 12 to 18 hours. Since then, boats have left earlier and earlier, and now you’ll find a good number of them heading down in January to get a shot at the tremendous number of sails that pound the bait balls just a short 10- to 14-mile jog offshore. Catch numbers here reach epic proportions, and most boats catch and release more than 1,000 sails during a three-month season.

On a 1½-hour flight from Miami, Florida, you can leave the States in the morning and be out catching scrappy Atlantic sails off Isla Mujeres before noon! Depending on how well you pick up the intricate drop-back techniques used to make your dead ballyhoo swim right through the center of a balled-up school of sardines, you can expect to catch 10-plus sails a day without breaking a sweat. Once the sails really start firing off, 20 or 30 releases a day becomes the norm. As an added bonus, the quaint little fishing village on the island with its friendly people and cool little shops, bars and restaurants makes Isla a perfect place to come back to each day. After my one brief visit this past spring, I felt like kicking myself for missing out on this great island for so long – don’t make the same mistake.

Capt. Anthony Mendillo, Keen M

www.islamujeressportfishing.com

Fishing for Billfish in Puerto Rico

Another American territory in the Caribbean that’s just a short 2½-hour hop from most eastern U.S. cities, Puerto Rico hosts a great blue marlin bite each summer.

Since it lies at the other end of the Puerto Rican Trench, just some 60 or so miles from St. Thomas, the bite here sometimes reaches epic proportions. The San Juan International Billfish Tournament, the longest continually running billfish tournament in the world, even held the record for the most blue marlin caught in a four-day tournament (190 in 1988) for 10 years. The San Juan tournament, which takes place every August, uses a unique, rotating boat format that allows an angler to show up all alone with rod and reel in hand and compete as an individual or as part of another team. In my opinion this represents one the best deals in all of sport fishing.

Truth be told though, Puerto Rico’s best blue marlin bite doesn’t even take place off San Juan. Instead, it’s Mayaguez, a little fishing village on the northeast end of the island, that enjoys a swarm of blue marlin during the full moons of summer. Anglers trolling lures or small dead baits here routinely score three or four blue marlin releases a day and sometimes more. Once again, you don’t even need a passport to visit this exotic island destination.

San Juan International Blue Marlin Tournament

www.sanjuaninternational.com

Marlin Fishing in the Dominican Republic

Both blue and white marlin show up in the clear, blue waters of the Dominican Republic , with whites popping up in the spring and hanging around well into the arrival of the blues in the summer.

The small blues that frequent these waters make perfect targets for light tackle and fly gear, so pick up a long wand, and you might just get lucky enough to catch a blue one on the fly. Three years ago, a number of FADs (fish-attracting devices) set up along the coast drew incredible numbers of blue marlin into the area, and crews were catching up to five or six rat blues a day with surprising regularity. Combine all the hot bites with legitimate five-star hotels and marinas like the Cap Cana and Punta Cana resorts, and you’ve got an island paradise just a three-hour flight from Miami.

Cap Cana Resort

www.capcana.com

Punta Cana Resort & Club

www.puntacana.com

Billfishing in Guatemala

I first visited Guatemala more than 17 years ago, and at that time I wouldn’t have classified this Central American hot spot as an easy-to-fish destination. The huge numbers of sailfish that swarm off the Guatemalan coast had just been discovered, and the infrastructure had not yet caught up with the hot bite offshore.

Decent accommodations in the fishing area around the port city of Iztapa were nonexistent. The first place I stayed down there had an air conditioner in the room that dripped on my head and sounded like someone trying to kick-start a Harley-Davidson. My, how times have changed. Once the indomitable Tim Choate opened up the now-defunct Fins N’ Feathers lodge, Guatemala’s fishing and lodging alternatives exploded. A new marina, built by longtime angler and Guatemalan promoter Fernando Aguilar, provided excellent dockage, kept boats from having to navigate a horrible inlet every day and helped pave the way to making this remote spot one of the easiest places to fish.

Guatemala hosts a ridiculous amount of Pacific sailfish from December through March, with anglers sometimes releasing more than 40 fish a day. Blue marlin make their appearance in these waters as well, so you’ll be thankful for the world-class, English-speaking captains at the helm. Top-notch lodges, boats and a fabulous landscape make the Guatemalan experience all the more enticing. And since all of the lodges pick you up at the airport and whisk you away to the port, there’s no easier place to book a charter and fish in Central America, which is saying something.

• Casa Vieja Lodge

www.casaviejalodge.com

Guatemalan Billfishing Adventures

Capt. Brad Philipps

www.guatbilladv.com

Florida: Fort Pierce to Key West

Already widely known as one of the world’s premier saltwater fishing destinations – drawing more than 3 million fishing visitors each year – Florida also hosts a consistent, world-class sailfish bite each winter and spring that lasts from December to well into June. And a lot of you don’t even have to jump on a plane to get to it.

Ten-, 15- and 20-fish days come fast and furiously as cold fronts moving down from the North butt up against the Gulf Stream, causing the sails to start snapping with wild abandon. And since crews in Florida utilize several different methods to target the sails, it’s easy to find a charter boat that fishes the way you are accustomed to. Up in the Fort Pierce area, crews pull dredges and dead ballyhoo to cover ground, while farther south, live baits fished under kites is the preferred method. Move even farther south into the Keys , and you’ll find captains who “run and gun,” cruising the reef edge looking for showering baits and then roaring in to toss live ballyhoo into the fray on 12-pound spinning tackle.

And just because sails make up the large majority of Florida’s billfish catches, don’t think that’s the only billfish action the Sunshine State has to offer. Longline closures in the Florida Straits and along the state’s east coast revitalized the traditional recreational swordfish fishery. Now you can fish for the elusive swordfish – one of the hardest species for any billfish angler to put under his belt – during the day or night in Florida and actually have a good chance of catching one.

Capt. Alex Adler, Kalex, Islamorada

Capt. Ray Rosher, Miss Britt,Miami/Coconut Grove

Ocean City, Maryland

Believe it or not, you can find great billfish action right off the Eastern Seaboard during the summer months, and Ocean City, Maryland, becomes the epicenter of the offshore scene during August.

Pods of hungry white marlin move into the offshore canyons, and anglers willing to make the 80-mile runs are sometimes rewarded with double-digit days, releasing more than 10 scrappy whites in a single trip. Big blue marlin and tunas also feed in the same water, so anglers need to prepare their tackle for an encounter with all three species. Also, those willing to wager can enter the White Marlin Open, one of the world’s richest tournaments, which awards more than $2 million in prize money.

It’s also hard to beat the local atmosphere in Ocean City, where the 2½-mile boardwalk draws families from all over the Northeast during the summer months. With an enormous range of accommodations to choose from and one of the largest charter fleets on the East Coast, it’s no wonder Ocean City turns into the self-proclaimed “White Marlin Capital of the World” each and every summer.

Charters/Dockage, Sunset Marina

Inlet Lodge, Ocean City, Maryland

With one of the richest coastlines in Central America, Panama ranks up among the world’s best places to wet a line .

As home to one of the top game-fish lodges, Tropic Star Lodge, and several world-class mothership operations, Panama offers up a wide variety of fishing options. Most importantly, it also provides your best shot at a black marlin in the Northern Hemisphere. Sure, you can catch one giant Pacific sail after another, trolling just yards off a primordial jungle coastline, but after you get your fill of sails, a short jaunt out to Zane Grey Reef with a live tuna almost guarantees a visit from a black marlin.

Blacks here range from 300-pound rats to bruisers pushing the 1,000-pound mark. While you can probably catch fish year-round, the dry season from January through April is the peak time for Panama. Once the rains start during the summer, fish move farther offshore, and boats have recently discovered pretty good blue and striped marlin bites when fishing slows inshore.

The only downside to fishing in Panama – if you can call spending the night in a four-star hotel a downside – is that you might have to spend an extra night coming and going to make connecting flights. While that may not sound like a hassle-free experience, when you book a trip with one of the agents listed below, you’ll find yourself looking forward to spending a fun night in Panama City. Besides, once you’re trolling along one of the wildest and most rugged coastlines you’ve ever seen, any thoughts of the city fade away to oblivion. I equate a fishing trip to Panama to a visit to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia: Anyone who likes to fish should try to get here at least once before they die, and it’s one hell of a lot closer to the States!

Tropic Star Lodge

www.tropicstar.com

North Carolina

Long known as one of the cradles of big-game sport fishing, North Carolina boasts a late-summer blue marlin bite that gives stateside anglers their most legitimate shot at catching a blue topping 800 pounds.

With that said, the white marlin bite off Hatteras and the Outer Banks comes in second to nowhere when they really turn on. North Carolina has enjoyed a tremendous white marlin season the last few years, with local boats scoring 10- to 20-fish days with surprising regularity. And the state’s large and experienced charter fleet allows walk-up anglers the opportunity to fish with world-class captains and mates. A trip on a North Carolina charter boat is more than just a fishing trip; it’s a big-game education that can shave years off your learning curve if you sit back and pay attention.

The area’s large charter and boatbuilding community continually spits out a seemingly never-ending supply of top captains who go on to make names for themselves – guys like Paul Spencer, John Bayliss and Paul Mann, just to name a few. North Carolina also hosts some of the largest, most popular blue marlin tournaments on the East Coast, like the Big Rock out of Morehead City and the Pirate’s Cove out of, you guessed it, Pirate’s Cove Marina on the Outer Banks, which also hosts a charter fleet. And anyone who fishes in the Atlantic should definitely stop by the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center to see where this whole offshore game got started.

Oregon Inlet Fishing Center

www.oregon-inlet.com

Pirate’s Cove Marina

www.fishpiratescove.com

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World's best peacock bass fishing trip!

World class sportfishing.

Bait-casting, Fly-fishing, Catfish, Spinning, and Bowfishing available.

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Michelin Starred Chef, Ecotour activities, Tailored-Made Private Trips, to name a few.

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Bait casting, fly-fishing, spinning, catfish and bowfishing

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World's best Peacock Bass fishing trip in all Brazil, Amazon

Yes we did it.

The world’s biggest peacock bass (28 lbs) has been caught with Capt Peacock on Feb. 2010 by Bill Gassmann from Iowa and registered by IGFA (International Game Fishing Association). He landed this monster (see pic. on the left) on his first Peacock Bass trip ever. The 27 lbs fish stood as the world record for 17 years, and many people thought it would never be broken.

WORLD’S # 1 BASS BOATS

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World's best peacock bass fishing experience cruises the Rivers of the Amazon, Brazil on board the newest floating-hotel of all South-America - Rio Negro Queen, delivering world record peacock bass fishing and world class gastronomy and ecotours on one of the last unspoiled places on earth. Our team of experts will assist you from the moment you book your trip with us… up until your return home.

World's best peacock bass fishing experience cruises the Rivers of the Amazon, Brazil on board the first certified floating-hotel in Brazil - The Rio Negro Queen, delivering world record peacock bass fishing and world class services combined with authentic outdoors and attention to details on one of the last unspoiled places on earth. Our team of experts will assist you from the moment you book your trip with us… up until your return home.

The Rio Negro Queen

Guests testimonials.

Dear Leonardo "Capt Peacock" Just want to say thank you again, for another great time in life!.

Johnny Morris Founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops and Tracker Marine (Jan. 2015)

"I've been fishing with Leonardo Leao and the Captain Peacock operation for many years and have always considered them to be the ultimate Peacock Bass outfitter in the Amazon.

Larry Larsen Author of four books on the Peacock Bass Founder of Peacock Bass Association Hall of Fame as Legendary Angler (Feb. 2015)

"This was the most Incredible trip ever! The crew was fantastic and every need and desire was fulfilled! Five Stars for sure, they went above and beyond for all expectations, And the fishing was a Dream come true!"

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10 Best Fishing Trips for Your Bucket List

Whether you’re a fan of freshwater fishing or its saltwater fishing that gets your adrenaline pumping, anglers of all stripes have a bucket list of rod-pumping, tail-walking, drag-screaming adventures they dream about. What’s on your own personal agenda? That’s for you to decide. But we’d be willing to bet that at least a few of these 10 best fishing trips would prove to be worthy thrills.

10 Best Fishing Trip Destinations

• Blue Marlin in Kona, Hawaii
• Blue Cats in Virginia (and D.C.)
• Bonefish at St. Brandon's (East Africa)
• Giant Bluefin Tuna off the Outer Banks
• Ice Fishing at Mille Lacs Lake
• Offshore Fishing in Key West, Florida
• Northern Snakeheads in the Blackwater River
• Peacock Bass Fishing in Florida
• Sailfish in Los Suenos, Costa Rica
• Trout in the Snake River

Explore Fishing Boats for Your Next Adventure

1. Blue Marlin in Kona, Hawaii

If you want to do battle with a true deep-sea monster, blue marlin fit the bill. There are several heavy-hitting destinations worth considering, but Kona, Hawaii, holds one ace up its sleeve: blues are present very close to shore here year-round, so you can visit this destination during any season and hope to encounter one. Summertime is the peak of the action, but trolling these waters at other times of the year can also produce striped marlin, spearfish, yellowfin tuna, and more.

2. Blue Cats of Virginia (and Washington D.C.)

Wait a sec—did we really put a catfish on the bucket list? You bet, because when it comes to fishing in the waters of Virginia and Washington, D. C. 100-pound-plus fish are possible. Kerr Reservoir is responsible for the world-record blue cat of 143-pounds, and both the Potomac and the James Rivers have been responsible for 100-plus-pound fish. In fact, 50-pounders are considered relatively common in Virginia’s blue cat hotspots. Besides, how cool would it be to hook into one of these behemoths while fishing in the shadow of the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument? So, yeah, blue catfish—anybody want to argue over a 100-pound whiskered beast earning this spot? We didn’t think so.

3. Bonefish at St. Brandon's (East Africa)

St. Brandon’s Atoll, off the coast of East Africa, is one of the least-accessible fishing destinations in the world. Most international anglers agree that it’s also the single best place in the world to sight-fish for tailing bonefish. Bonefish up to 15-pounds are encountered here, as well as a mix of permit and trevally. It’s very difficult to get to St. Brandon’s (plan on a full 24-hour day of travel from the U.S.) and you’ll be staying in a very basic lodge or on a mothership, but if you plan on putting bones into your bucket, St. Brandon’s can’t be beat.

4. Giant Bluefin Tuna off the Outer Banks (OBX)

When they call a 300-pounder a “small” one, you know you’re facing one of the ultimate angling challenges on the face of the planet. Hooking into giant bluefin tuna twice or even three times this size is a possibility, when you’re fishing off the Outer Banks during the winter and early spring months. Better hang on tight!

5. Ice Fishing at Mille Lacs Lake

Even the saltiest saltwater anglers have heard of Minnesota’s Mille Lacs Lake, which is famous for having roads plowed through the snow on top of the frozen lake to service the small “city” of ice fishing huts and cabins (numbering over 5,000 at times). Walleye are the main attraction, but northern pike and numerous panfish species can also be reeled up through your ice holes.

6. Key West: Anything and Everything

We’re not going to nail down any one species of choice when it comes to fishing in Key West, because the beauty of this bucket list destination is the diversity. You can run east and fish for sailfish, kingfish, blackfin, wahoo, and amberjack on one day, then run west and target tarpon, bonefish, and permit the next. You can fish the open ocean, reefs, flats, and mangroves. You can troll, sling lures, drop baits, or fly cast. The key to having the angling adventures of a lifetime in Key West is enjoying its amazing diversity and doing battle with multiple species on your own personal bucket list, all in the same place.

7. Northern Snakeheads in the Blackwater

Northern snakeheads are an invasive species which first showed up in the Blackwater River complex of the DelMarVa Peninsula 10 or 12 years ago. Since then, the snakehead’s ability to breath air in the shallow river’s low-oxygen environment allowed for a population explosion unlike any other. Today, catches of dozens of snakeheads at a time are not uncommon and 100-plus fish days are not unheard-of. Watching 30-inch and larger snakeheads explode on topwater plugs is the thrill many anglers visiting these waters are after, and after seeing it for yourself it’ll be no wonder why this destination and this fishery went from non-existent to bucket list-worthy in barely a decade.

8. Peacock Bass Fishing in Florida

Many freshwater anglers find the allure of chasing this exotic species irresistible. Peacock bass, native to the Amazon and transplanted to Florida, are amazingly colorful fish that are also as aggressive and hard-fighting as any freshwater fish on the planet. Adding to their attraction, the excellent clarity found in many of south Florida’s waterways makes it possible to spot peacock bass visually and then sight-cast for them.

Learn More in Bass Fishing Tips: How to Catch Bass

9. Sailfish in Los Suenos, Costa Rica

Los Suenos, Costa Rica posts some of the biggest sailfish numbers on Earth, with the peak of the season providing regular double-digit days and sometimes dozens of bites on a single outing. Plus, during the peak winter months this area has an advantage over most other ports: geography and the prevailing winds cooperate to provide favorable seas almost every day, and very few fishing trips are lost to rough conditions. On top of that marlin, mahi-mahi, and wahoo are often mixed in with the catch and if you stay inshore, the rooster fish fishing is also world-class.

10. Trout in the Snake River

Winding through the wilderness of Yellowstone National Park, the Snake River and its feeders provide trout fishermen with the ability to cast a fly in completely natural surroundings, unspoiled by any form of civilization. While you probably won’t encounter the biggest fish in the world here—the bulk of the catch is usually mid-sized cuttroats, whitefish, and brown trout—hiking in and casting the remote waters is certainly an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Is this a complete list of all the uber-amazing fishing adventures an average angler will have on his or her bucket list? Of course not. In fact, limiting ourselves to 10 best fishing trips barley lets us scratch the surface. Fishing the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, going for monster mako sharks off the California coast, salmon and halibut fishing in Alaska—the list goes on and on. But no matter what sort of angler you are, these 10 fishing adventures belong on your bucket list.

Read Next: When is the Best Time to Go Fishing?

You Might Also Like:

• Saltwater Fishing Gear: 10 Essentials for Anglers
• Fishing Safety Tips & Safety Gear
• 8 Cool Coasts to Cruise in the U.S.
• Best Lakes in the U.S.
• Find the Right Boat for Your Lifestyle

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Malindi, Kenya

Whether you are interested in angling, diving, or just spending time on the beach, Kenya offers some of the best destinations for fishing. Located along the eastern coast of Africa, Kenya’s 540km of coastline is pristine and offers many different fishing locations.

The Kenya coral reef system is home to many species of fish and other marine organisms. It is a popular destination for divers, as well as for open-bottom boat tours. Located in the vicinity of Malindi, the reef offers many opportunities to see exotic fish and coral reefs.

One of the most popular areas for fishing is off the Malindi/Watamu coast. The area is known for its sailfish, which can be caught anytime. Typically, the peak of sailfish season is from September through January. The area is also a good spot to catch the elusive billfish royal slam.

Fishing off the Kenya coast is governed by twin monsoons. Long rains occur in April and July, while short rains occur in October and November. The Kusi blows from late March until November, creating warmer waters.

Key West, Florida

Whether you enjoy deep sea fishing or shallow water fishing, Key West is a great fishing destination. With many different species to choose from, you can enjoy a wide variety of fishing options.

During the winter, deep sea fishing in Key West offers a strong bite for kingfish, cobia, and amberjack. The key is to go out in a larger boat and to find a good area with a good fishing spot.

If you are interested in fishing in Key West, you will need a fishing permit. You can also find a good fishing guide. In the upper Florida Keys, you can find Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon. The fish here include blackfin tuna, mahi mahi, wahoo, grouper, shark, and more.

If you’re interested in tarpon, you can find them near the shoreline in the flats. These fish are known for their big appetite and long leaping runs. Alternatively, you can try backcountry fishing. These fishermen fish in calm shallow waters in mangroves, and use fly-fishing gear and light tackle to reel in the fish.

Great Abaco, Bahamas

Whether you’re looking for a deep sea fishing trip or a more inshore fishing experience, the Bahamas is the place to go. You’ll be able to catch a variety of species in the region, from striped marlin to blue marlin. You can also catch dolphin, wahoo and blackfin and yellowfin tuna.

Great Abaco is located in the northern part of the Bahamas. It’s home to the largest naturally protected deep water harbor in the Abacos chain. This marina is a hot spot for boaters. It’s also a great place to participate in high-profile tournaments.

The island also has a world-class golf course. The course was designed by Joe Lee. It’s a challenging course. There are also modern boats to use. You’ll find plenty of experienced guides here.

Great Abaco has 400 square miles of flats, making it a great place for fishing. The flats are called the “Marls of Abaco” and they’re considered prime wilderness bonefish habitat. They’re also a favorite for barracuda and sharks. In addition to the flats, there are plenty of offshore cays to explore.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Located on the Sea of Cortez and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is home to some of the world’s best fishing. This small town on the southern tip of Baja California attracts anglers from all over the world. If you are a sportfisherman looking for a new adventure, Cabo is the place to be.

The waters of Cabo San Lucas are home to hundreds of different species of fish. From tuna to dorado, Cabo has a variety of exciting catches. Many sport fishers flock to Cabo each year, with 12,000 marlin being caught each year.

The Sea of Cortez is considered the best sport fishing in the world. Its rich waters attract large numbers of marlin, and lucky anglers have had the opportunity to fight with marlin weighing as much as 900 pounds.

Fishing in Cabo is as good as ever. The sportfishing industry has expanded over the past few decades, and there are now more than 500 fishing vessels available to sport fishers. Private fishing vessels range from a small pangas to 200 foot yachts. The docks are lined with American style restaurants and retail stores.

Fishing is a year-round activity in Cabo San Lucas, but the winter season is prime for fishing. The warm water of the Sea of Cortez attracts Dorado and Skipjack, as well as Yellowfin.

Cabo San Lucas also offers an abundance of inshore and outgoing fishing spots. The Tinaje trough, running from San Jaime Bank to the Golden Gate Bank, is known as one of the best fishing spots in Cabo.

Known as the premier big game fishing destination in the world, Bermuda boasts an abundance of fish and is a paradise for deep sea fishing enthusiasts. Bermuda has a variety of large fish including marlin, white marlin, and blue marlin. It is also home to the largest fish in the world, the Bonefish.

The best fishing in Bermuda is located on the offshore reefs. There are two reefs that are about 15 and 31 miles out from the shore. There are various snapper species, including False Albacore, Yellowtail Snapper, Almaco Jacks, and Grouper.

The best way to fish the reefs is to charter a boat. These specialized charters account for fuel, maintenance, and top of the line tackle.

There are also several fishing spots off the shore. Some of these spots include the Great Sound, which has a variety of fish. Other spots include the Tongue of Ocean, which hosts wahoo and dolphin.

Some of the most popular fishing spots in Bermuda are located on the North Lagoon reefs. These reefs are very popular with bottom dwellers. They are also home to numerous species of fish, including yellowfin and blackfin tuna.

Another popular fishing spot is Daniel’s Head Beach Park. It is located near Somerset Village. Another popular fishing spot is West Whale Bay in Southampton. These are great spots to go for a nice day at sea with an experienced captain.

Located along the eastern coast of Central America, Belize offers some of the best fishing waters in the world. Its coastlines are home to many types of sharks and jacks. Its rivers and estuaries are known for tarpon and snook.

Almost 50 percent of Belize is protected. The country is home to a large number of permit and bonefish. It is also the only Caribbean country that offers protection for gamefish.

Belize’s coral reefs support a wide variety of species, including jacks, grouper and snappers. It is also home to sharks and turtles. Belize fishing regulations prohibit the use of gill nets and traps in protected areas.

The Mesoamerican Reef runs along the entire 240 miles of Belize’s coastline. It is the second largest barrier reef in the world, and is home to hundreds of species of fish.

The Belize Barrier Reef is an ideal destination for saltwater fly-fishing. It is also home to an array of fish, including grouper, marlin, wahoo, sharks, tuna, barracuda and more.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing fishing vacation or a fishing adventure, Belize has it all. Belize is known as an eco-paradise, offering travelers a clean and pollution-free environment. Belize fishing guides can help you plan your Belize fishing trip. These guides are knowledgeable about where to fish, how to fish and what to look for. They speak English and can also communicate with tourists.

Ebro River, Spain

Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced angler, the Ebro River in Spain is a great place to go fishing. The river flows through the Pyrenees and offers amazing fishing trips.

The Ebro is home to many different species of fish. Some of the most common include carp, zander and catfish. You can fish for these species in several towns along the river.

The Ebro also has the largest catfish in Spain, which can weigh over 100 kg. This is a huge fish and is popular among anglers. Catfish are attracted to sewer outfalls and stream inlets and are known to travel long distances to find food.

The Ebro is the home of the best fishing in Europe. The river offers a variety of fish, including black bass, zander, pike perch and more. The Ebro is home to a number of endemic fish species, including the wels catfish.

The Ebro is a major river in Spain and is famous for its big fish. Its largest specimens can weigh up to 150 kg. It is also one of the longest rivers in Spain. The Ebro is also home to some endemic species, such as the crucian carp and channel catfish.

There are several waterfalls along the Ebro. The river is also home to a number of pike perches and catfish.

A number of companies offer fishing holidays in Spain along the Ebro. You can even get a fishing license and fishing equipment from a local fishing guide.

Mongolian Highlands, Mongolia

Located in north-central Asia, Mongolia is one of the best fishing destinations in the world. It is a landlocked country that shares borders with Russia, China, and the Tibetan plateau. It is a sparsely populated country with a population of slightly more than two million.

Mongolia has one of the highest rates of natural increase in Asia. This rapid population growth has been fueled by improved health facilities and government policy that encouraged families to have more children. The population has soared from a quarter of the nation’s population in the 1950s to a half in the early 1990s.

Mongolia’s population of approximately 2.5 million is divided into four main groups. The majority are Mongols, a homogeneous group characterized by traditional physical characteristics. Other groups include Kazakhs and Russians.

Mongolia’s main industry is agriculture, with livestock raising accounting for three-fourths of the nation’s agricultural production. Wheat is the country’s largest crop. However, livestock is not grown in all areas. The country’s traditional export was livestock. The traditional methods of raising livestock are still used.

A wide variety of species abounds in Mongolia, including several rare species. The country’s wildlife offers opportunities for commercial exploitation. These include lynx, maral, wolverines, squirrels, and brown bears.

The landscape of Mongolia is dominated by three mountain ranges. The highest is the Altai Mountains, which sweep in from the northwestern tip of the country. The Altai Mountains are the only range in Mongolia that is still covered by contemporary glaciation.

Amazon River, Brazil

Whether you’re planning a fishing trip to Brazil or you just want to enjoy the scenery while catching a few fish, the Amazon River is one of the best places to go fishing in the world. This large, wild river has more than 15,000 tributaries and is home to over 2,000 different species of fish.

In addition to the variety of fish that live in the Amazon, there are also many different kinds of insects. More than 20,000 plant species live in the area, including dozens of different kinds of fruits. Some of these fruits are familiar, while others are unknown to people outside of their native populations.

One of the most famous fish in the Amazon is the red-bellied piranha. It’s considered one of the most dangerous fish in the world, and it’s usually found travelling in schools. It can grow up to 12 inches long, and it’s primarily a scavenger.

The Amazon River is also home to giant catfish. These large catfish are typically found in the upper reaches of rivers, where they can grow to more than 350 pounds. The Amazon River is home to a variety of other large fish, including jau, which can reach 40 to 80 pounds, and aracu, which can grow to more than 10 pounds.

Another fish to consider is the Tambaqui, which is also referred to as the “fruit-eating fish.” This species can grow to three feet long and weigh up to 100 pounds.

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11 Best Deep Sea Fishing Destinations & Sites in the World

Where in the world would you go deep-sea fishing? This question is easy to answer as the world has many oceans. Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, are endowed with fishing sites. 

One of the things you must understand when you set sail is to study which part of the world has myriads of fish species. Are you after the biggest fish? The tricky part of finding where to do deep-sea fishing is the expenses you incur during your stay. 

Is the site worthy of flying? Are you familiar with the ocean and weather conditions? These are things you may consider when choosing the location for deep-sea fishing. 

Take a sneak peek at our list of the world’s best deep-sea fishing sites.

Expect to catch big fish in Bermuda if you go deep-sea fishing on this side of the world. The ocean in Bermuda is teeming with underwater features. It is a haven for fish species like dorado, great wahoo, blue marlin, white marlin, yellowfin tuna, black-fin tuna, and rainbow runner. 

Go offshore fishing by taking a chartered fishing boat to Bermuda. This country landed in the big-game fisherman’s playbook list as one of the best deep-sea fishing sites several decades ago.

2) San Diego, California

San Diego takes pride in its title as one of the world’s best sports fishing sites and is home to the largest fleet of sports fishing boats. 

The charter boats offer full-day, multi-day, and half-day trips that would last several weeks to catch big fish. A day trip will take you to the Coronado Islands in Mexico. 

Early summer is an ideal time for deep sea fishing in San Diego. Tuna, dorado, and yellowtail are abundant during this time as the fish travels from the Mexican waters to San Diego.

3) Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Aside from its famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Cabo is known worldwide for its deep-sea fishing. Cabo San Lucas is at the tip of Baja, California. This position allows big game fish to swarm from the Pacific Ocean, Sea of Cortez, and the Gulf of California. 

It is no wonder why deep-sea enthusiasts flock to Cabo and fish throughout the year. But the ideal time to fish for marlin is from October to November. If you aim for dorado, sails, and wahoo, May and July are the best time to do deep-sea fishing. Friendly crews of charter boats are ready to assist you if you drop by at Cabo San Lucas.

4) Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Sports anglers will have much fun when they engage in deep-sea fishing in Cape Cod. Rent a boat to take you to the east towards the Atlantic Ocean and catch Bluefin tuna during your trip?

Bluefish and striped bass are abundant and will fill your boat if you go on a sixteen-hour trip. Sports anglers will enjoy much time when deep fishing in Cape Cod, known as a spring-to-fall fishing destination. 

Cape Cod has many fish varieties, such as bonito, bluefin tuna, bluefish, striped bass, false albacore, fluke, flounder, and tautog. Cape Canal is one of its fishing spots aside from its shoals, saltwater creeks, and harbors where fish feeding occurs. 

5) Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is Asia’s pride when it comes to deep-sea fishing. This scenic island is a haven for exotic game fish species. When fishing in Phuket, expect to fill your boat with marlin, wahoo, Giant Trevally, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, queenfish, and billfish. 

Deep-sea fishing in Phuket allows anglers to catch the fish and return to the ocean after taking a photo of their catch. If you don’t follow their catch-and-release rule, think otherwise. The purpose of this rule is to maintain their fish population.

6) Galveston, Texas

Deep-sea fishing in Galveston is an experience you will never regret. Galveston is the best jump-off point when you go offshore fishing. It has a variety of fish species when you go for a day trip. 

Catch the fish in the bay and jetties when there is bad weather. A twelve-hour trip will take you to the Gulf of Mexico. Load your boat with grouper, common ling, and snapper for a sumptuous meal.

7) Bimini, Bahamas

Enjoy year-round deep-sea fishing in Bimini and catch black grouper, yellowtail, and mutton snapper. Bimini is a perfect fishing destination for anglers who prefer to fish near the states. Winter is an ideal time to catch wahoo and mackerel. Bimini has earned the title of the world’s sportfishing capital.

This deep-sea fishing spot is famous for its beautiful ocean sights and also the large game fishes you can catch in the surrounding waters.

8) Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is positioned just above the famous Florida Reef. Fishing in the Florida Keys is not just a hobby; it is a big industry. The reef is home to year-long summer and tropical islands. 

Deep-sea fishing on the island is a must for anglers because of the abundance of fish species. Billfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, snapper, grouper, swordfish, marlin, and wahoo are some fish varieties that every angler’s dream catches.

9) Outer Banks, North Carolina

Outer Banks does not need further introduction. Game fish are everywhere in the Outer Banks, such as sailfish, blue and white marlin, blackfin tuna, yellowfin, Bluefin, amberjack, mackerel, channel bass, wahoo, bonito, cobia, and false albacore. Sharks, barracuda, and dolphins frequent this region.  

The fish love to stay in the warm water of the Outer Banks. The best time to fish in the Outer Banks is from April to June and September to November.

10) Virginia Beach, Virginia

The Eastern Seaboard meets at the Virginia Beach, making it a perfect habitat for game fish. Fish from Maine and the Atlantic Ocean frequent the beach to meet with local fish. Cobia and Redfish converge on the beach with stripers and tautog. A boat charter will take you from the Rudee Inlet to the Norfolk Canyon to catch marlin, tuna, and billfish.

11) Nova Scotia, Canada

Nova Scotia has 7,600 kilometers of saltwater coastlines, 100 rivers, and over 6,700 lakes. The surroundings of Nova Scotia attract fish to stay in the peninsula, such as the Atlantic Ocean, bays, and estuaries. 

If you are targeting bluefins, Nova Scotia has it all. Nova Scotia is known for holding the world record for catching the giant Bluefin tuna weighing 1,496 pounds! 

If you take a charter boat in Nova Scotia, you need to shell out extra dollars. The cost of the trip is worth your dollars because you do not have to go far to catch a fish. Bluefins are abundant in August until the middle of October. 

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8 Great International Destinations for Fly Fishing

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Everyone knows that the U.S. is blessed with some of the best fly fishing locations in the entire world, with places like Colorado , Montana , and North Carolina all offering exceptional spots for anglers to test their skills. However, there are plenty of other destinations across the globe that offer fantastic opportunities as well, often blending great fishing with breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion too.

These are our picks for the eight best places to go fly fishing in the entire world. 

Northern Saskatchewan (Canada)

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An abundance of pristine lakes and rivers – there are more than 100,000 across the region – makes Canada's Saskatchewan Province an excellent destination for fly fishing. The place is home to monster northern pike and walleye, with plenty of rainbow and lake trout to reel in too, making a dream location for sport fishermen the world over.

Anglers will find plenty of fishing holes that are accessible by car, but to reach the truly great spots fly-in options are available too. This gives travelers a chance to access some of the province's most remote rivers and lakes by floatplane, taking them far off the beaten path as they go in search of trophy fish. Best of all, this option allows travelers to visit places where few others ever get to see, making it unlikely that they'll run into another human being for their entire stay in the backcountry. 

Patagonia (Chile and Argentina)

If there is one international destination that will remind fly fishers of the American West, it is probably Patagonia. Located at the extreme southern tip of South America, and stretching across both Chile and Argentina, this section of wilderness is one of the most strikingly beautiful places on the planet. It also happens to be home to world-class trout fishing, with numerous rivers, streams, and lakes for anglers to explore.

Adventurous travelers can choose to stay in comfortable lodges or backpack into more remote locations and camp instead. Both options provide plenty of opportunities for great fishing, as knowledgeable guides are easy to find, helping to make planning a trip a simple and rewarding affair. All of the fishing is of the catch-and-release variety, ensuring that the Patagonian waterways are always well-stocked for future generations to enjoy too. 

Alphonse Island (The Seychelles)

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Tropical destinations aren't always the first places that come to mind when it comes to fly fishing, but Alphonse Island in Seychelles is an exotic locale that doesn't disappoint. Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this remote and breathtakingly beautiful paradise is home to a private resort where angling takes center stage all year long. 

Bonefish are in abundance on Alphonse, as are other large species like milkfish and giant trivially, both of which are known to put up quite a fight. The scenery is much different than most fly fishers are used to, but they'll soon adapt to the warm waters, bright sun, and incredibly relaxed atmosphere. 

Loreto, Baja (Mexico)

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American anglers looking for a completely new experience need only head south of the border to find excellent opportunities for fly fishing. Mexico has a number of great fresh and saltwater destinations for fishing, but perhaps the best can be found in Loreto on the Baja Peninsula. The region is home to an array of fantastic species of sport fish, including sea bass, yellowfin tuna, and snapper, all of which are large, energetic, and fun to reel in. 

The burgeoning fishing scene in Loreto has attracted top guides who know the area well and can help visitors get the most out of their trip. Just dress for warm conditions, bring plenty of sunscreen, and be prepared for some great days out on the water. 

Eg-Urr River (Mongolia)

Remote, rugged, and strikingly beautiful, the Eg-Urr River Basin in Mongolia is an amazing destination for fly fishers who enjoy a healthy dose of adventure along with their angling. The country has only opened up to fly fishing over the past decade or so, which means crowds are nonexistent and there are endless miles of pristine river to be explored.

The biggest fish in the water is the massive taimen, the largest species of trout on the planet. These creatures make excellent game fish, offering a spirited fight that will delight even the most experienced fisherman or woman. These fish can weigh more than 60 pounds and stretch in length to nearly 4 feet, putting them on par with large salmon.

Despite fishing being a relatively new form of tourism for the country, there are some excellent guides who have been operating there for a number of years, taking all of the hassle out of getting to the river and reeling in some very big fish. 

North Island (New Zealand)

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New Zealand's North Island is another utterly spectacular fly fishing destination. The region is known for its large rivers and lakes, many of which are stocked with both rainbow and brown trout, making it a paradise for travelers looking for a classic fly fishing experience in an absolutely breathtaking environment. 

Finding a guide isn't a problem on the North Island and there are plenty of great options to help make any fishing trip easier to organize. But, for a complete packaged experience, it's tough to beat the options available at the Poronui Lodge , which offers access to excellent private waterways, great accommodations, and fantastic food and beverages too. 

Midfjarda River (Iceland)

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Iceland is another destination where great fishing and beautiful landscapes come together quite nicely. But few places offer better angling than the Midfjarda River, where the salmon often run thick. Here, anglers wade out into the water as the fish swim past in a flurry of activity, with the salmon often joined by brown trout and the occasional sea trout too.

Fishing along this catch-and-release river is easy, and its more than 200 pools are accessible to pretty much everyone. But if you're looking for the complete experience, consider a stay at the Midfjarda Lodge, where you'll find comfortable living, excellent cuisine, and knowledgeable guides that will help you reel in trough fish approaching 20 pounds in weight. 

Iztapa (Guatemala)

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Another tropical destination that offers fantastic fly fishing is Iztapa in Guatemala . The place is practically teeming with sailfish, although marlin, tuna, and dorado can sometimes be found there too. But the real draw is definitely the sailfish, which are found in almost startling numbers here. 

Anglers will have no trouble finding guides to take them out on the water, but Blue Bayou is one of the best in the business. For more than a decade, they've been helping visitors catch big fish without spending a lot of money to do so. That has earned them a reputation as one of the top options for visiting fly fishers looking to see what Guatemala has to offer. 

There are dozens of great fly fishing destinations across the globe, but for our money, these are the very best. Not only will anglers find excellent places to cast their line, they'll get to do so in some of the most beautiful locations anywhere. It is always tough to top that.

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For anglers, the world is always best explored with the quest for that ‘trophy fish. However, it’s likely it feels like *ages* since you, or any angler for that matter, have actually travelled to that unspoilt dream destination to land the fish of a lifetime at the best fishing lodges.

However, when you’re able to rediscover the great outdoors again, we listed a bunch of the best fishing lodges to consider, so you can start planning your next adventure and start dreaming about getting back out there!

But, if you are not the type who follow specific species, then consider this a cheat sheet your guide to every angler’s trade secret—the ultimate fishing spots..

If you’re not a die-hard fishing nut, then just take in the list and pretend to live like Bill Gates during his “Think Week.” I’m sure he wouldn’t mind if people take their brand of “Think Week.” Who knows? You might even enjoy it. 

The world is a big, wide place. Naturally, there isn’t a single exhaustive list of everything that you are looking to find. It’s the same for fishing lodges. But don’t fret! Instead of an exhaustive list, we prepared a special list of the world’s best fishing lodges just for you. Here are some of them:

Ruby Springs Lodge, Montana– The Best for Idyllic Fishing Escape

Ruby Springs Lodge is known for being a great fishing lodge for its idyllic location on the banks of the Ruby River. If you are into escaping workaday cares by fishing, then you could take advantage of this celebrated 10-mile trout stream run that promises as many as 2,200 fish per mile.

• Home to the Big Hole famed for housing the June salmon fly hatch that indulges in surface feeding
• Accessible trip to Beaverhead, a place where football-sized four-pounders lurk
• Secluded modern riverside cabins with a great view of nature
• Surrounding peaks of rounded mountains offer a great view of the setting sun
• Offers full breakfast

For those who visit the Ruby Spring Lodge in Montana, seclusion is the name of the game. Whether you are escaping your everyday life to indulge in your personal “Think Week” like Bill Gates or trying to score a ‘big game,’ Ruby Spring Lodge is one of the best fishing lodges to avoid intrusions of any kind.

Book your spot at Ruby Springs here!

Treasure Cay Resort, the Bahamas – The Most Comfortable Bahamian Fishing Getaway

One glimpse at the Treasure Cay Resort, and you know that you will have a one-of-a-kind memorable fishing experience. From the first-class marina to the luxurious accommodations and white-sand beaches that spell grandeur all over, Treasure Cay is one of the finest that the Bahamas offers.

• Wide choice of accommodations—from standard and deluxe rooms to one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites overlooking the beach 
• Fisheries include dolphinfish, wahoo., marlin, tuna, grouper, and the inevitable barracuda.
• Blended resorts and local communities make fishing and mainland areas accessible.
• Area options offer the full Bahamian flavor: from first-rate Green Turtle Cay Club and the Marina to the Abacos and the more casual Pete and Gay’s Guest House.

The Bahamas is a great destination and not just for fishing. If you are the type who likes experiencing local community culture firsthand, then the Treasure Cay Resort in the Bahamas will get you an experience that will last for a lifetime.

Book your spot at Treasure Cay Resort here!

Crested Butte, Colorado – The Best for Luxury Fishing Experience

If you are up for a luxurious dream-like fishing trip experience, then Crested Butte in Colorado is the one you want to visit. Famed for covering every sort of indulgence you could think of—from private chefs to custom-built tree houses and impeccable trout-fishing at the famed Taylor River; this lodge will top any to-go list.

• Fine fishery with the biggest Mysis-shrimp fed trouts in private waters
• Sprawling seven-bedroom lodge and media room
• Outdoor dining area
• Custom-built treehouses
• Stone bathhouse with steam room, sauna, hot tub, and indoor saltwater pool overlooking the river
• Private chefs
• Luxurious transportation and gears

Crested Butte may not be affordable for serious anglers, but if you are a weekend enthusiast with money to burn, then we highly recommend looking at this fishing lodge. Granted, the fish option is limited to outrageously-sized trout, but if you are after an experience of a lifetime, Crested Butte is one of the best fishing lodges out there.

Book your spot at the Crested Butte here!

Tsaatan Lodge, Mongolia – The Off-the-Beaten-Path Budget Fishing Destination

Mongolia is the epitome of intrepid explorations and off-the-beaten-path travel. Whether you’re looking to try your hand at fishing or simply wishing to experience a raw, natural, and untouched environment without boring a hole through your wallet, then this is your destination. Mountain rivers, rich coniferous forests, traditional ethnic lifestyle strongly influenced by ancient cultures, a trip to Mongolia’s Tsaatan Lodge is a treat for your tired soul.

• A mainstay in every angler’s bucket list
• Fisheries include the biggest ‘Tuul’ (taimen or huchon, otherwise known as Mongolia’s ‘River Wolf’), lenok trout, and grayling
• Accommodation options include itinerant Yurt camp and twin cabins, triple cabins, and heated ger
• Perfect for travelers on a budget

If you are up for a fishing, hiking, and cultural tour all rolled into one, then visiting the Tsaatan Lodge in Mongolia might just be the best trip you can take. Not only will you get budget-friendly exposure to rich nature and culture, but this destination can also offer an almost nomadic experience that you’ll probably never find anywhere else, mainly if you are a city-dweller. With the price you’ll be paying for a fishing trip to Mongolia, you’re getting the bang for your buck.

Book your spot at Tsaatan Lodge here!

Tropic Star Lodge, Panama—The World-Famous Inshore-Offshore Sport Fishing Hotspot in the Jungle

Hailed as one of the pioneers of sport fishing, the Tropic Star Lodge in Panama has been a must-visit spot for anglers of all levels. Since its discovery in the 1920s, this remote hotspot has earned its reputation as an angler’s paradise for unforgettable experiences.

• Internationally recognized sport fishing hotspot known for over 300 IGFA world records
• Famed for two major fishing spots: Pinas Bay and Zane Grey Reef—a relatively small seamount with pinnacles that rise from the ocean floor to within 150 ft of the surface 
• It offers almost exclusive accommodation with a mere 19-room setup that is always in high demand 
• Impeccable room options: from The Palace, a high-end 3-bedroom villa with an ocean view, to private cabins and regular air-conditioned rooms
• A fleet of 16 fully-customized 31-feet Bertrams, fitted with GPS and VHF radios, custom tuna tubes, and live baitwells, repaired and maintained on-site
• All the Shimano reels, custom Dru rods, AFTCO fighting harness, and teasers and lures you’ll ever need
• Fish options include blue, black, and striped marlin, sailfish, dorado, and wahoo

Whether you see fishing as a hobby or as a serious passion or sport, Tropic Star Lodge is an iconic destination where you and your travel buddies can channel your inner fishing nut and have fun. Visiting it will make you understand that its titles, both as Panama’s best fishing lodge and one of the world’s most popular fishing destination for decades, is there for good reasons.

Book your spot at Tropic Star Lodge here!

Ocean Blue Fishing’s Trees and Fishes Angler’s Lodge 

Looking for a tropical blue water sport fishing trip is one that Trees and Fishes play so well. With its superb laid back island hospitality and adrenaline-inducing sport fishing, Ocean Blue Fishing provide a walk on walk off experience you’ll want to do again. Maybe next time, you’ll even have a hot date in tow. In fact Trees and Fishes is one of the few lodges that do a fantastic job to cater for your better half so well. Luxury Villa accommodation, private pools, superb dining and romantic settings mean you don’t need to beg for that leave pass to head on your next fishing getaway.

• With first-class blue water sport fishing and a large variety of blue water pelagics, including yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, sailfish, and blue marlin, along with famed Vanuatu’s monster GT and dogtooth
• Expert guides share the best tricks and techniques to help you reel in more fish. 
• Spectacular off-the-water private lodge with, walk on, walk off set up
• Offers an extravagant Balinese-inspired private sanctuary that speaks of luxury, Villa Luca  
• Provides an array of a fresh and organic menu with a great selection of international wines, local and imported beers, spirits, and cocktails

Vanuatu generally has fantastic weather. Combined with stunning settings, interactive activities, excellent dining options, fish canyons, volcanic islands, FAD’s, and seamounts, Trees and Fishes is one place you’ll be coming back for year after year!

Book your next adventure at Ocean Blue Fishing here!

Taking a trip to the best fishing lodges soon? 

Are you still needing a little nudge to take that adventure-filled trip to the Ocean Blue’s Trees and Fishes or the culture-filled fishing trip to either the Bahamas or Mongolia? After all, even if you aren’t all gaga about headon out on the fishing bit, visiting any of these places can get you to the best, most therapeutic spots—to relax and unwind. And yes, it’s never really just the destination (or, in this case, the reason—fishing activity) that matters, but the immeasurable lessons and experiences you gain during these adventures.

“Most of the world is covered by water. A fisherman’s job is simple: Pick out the best parts.” FORMER US SENATOR CHARLES WATERMAN

So, have you picked out the best parts yet?

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The 12 Best Guided Fly Fishing Trips in the World

Anglers have been exploring distant waters for decades. From the first exploratory fly fishing trips in the jungles of the Amazon to un-mapped atolls for fly fishing for Giant Trevally in the Seychelles, the quest to fish further and further afield is deeply rooted in the souls of many anglers. For some this thirst for adventure is rarely fully quenched, because the next best fly fishing trip is the one yet to be taken.

With over 200 destinations for the best fly fishing trip, it is hard to determine which trip is the best. What might be "best" for one angler isn't for another. Each trip we create is often custom-tailored to each individual angler. This unique ability to only sell what we know--and we know a lot--means we can probably create "the best fly fishing trip" for anyone wanting to fish any of our destinations.

So, whether it is close to home or across the world sight-casting to New Zealand brown trout or seeking a double-digit bonefish on a Bahamas fly fishing trip , opportunities exist to experience Eight of the Best Guided Fly Fishing Trips on the Planet.

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1. The Seychelles

Far off the eastern coast of Africa and thousands of miles northeast of Madagascar lie hundreds of Seychellois islands. Throughout these islands are dozens of atolls and saltwater flats, offering unbelievable wading and amazing fly fishing opportunities for an incredible number of different species. Giant Trevally are the draw here, but these fisheries offer so much more-- you will find bonefish in extraordinary numbers, several different types of trevally, milkfish, triggerfish, bumphead parrotfish, permit, and dozens of other reef and flats species.

The quality of fly fishing guides in the Seychelles is at, or above, the level you would expect from the best saltwater lodges throughout the world. Guides here are passionate, knowledgeable, safe, and hard-working. The array of lodging options runs from off-the-grid eco-lodges to full-scale resorts. The remoteness, exceptional quality of guides, and variety of lodges make a trip to the Seychelles one of the best guided fly fishing trips on the planet. Want to learn more? Click here to listen to Devan Van Der Merwe, general manager for Alphonse Fishing Co., discuss fly fishing throughout the Seychelles on the WAYPOINTS Podcast.

+ View Our Seychelles Fly Fishing Trips

2. Kamchatka, Russia (Currently Closed Due to Ongoing Conflict)

Anglers have been fishing Kamchatka for decades. Because of this, the knowledge of the rivers and fisheries here is substantial. But, there is simply so much water here , a fly fishing trip to Kamchatka is one of wilderness fly fishing for large rainbow trout.

With a peninsula larger than the landmass of California and only one passable and maintained road heading into this region's interior, it is safe to say fly fishing here is a true backcounty wilderness fly fishing experience . And, the native fish here grow big...and eat with aggression. If you have ever dreamed of fishing some of the most remote, untouched rivers on earth for large, aggressive, surface-feeding native rainbow trout, then this trip should be at the very top of your list.

Guides here are experienced and safe. From fixed-based camps to float fishing trips, amenities here are ideal for anglers who desire all the comforts without the fluff—the fly fishing for massive trout is what makes Kamchatka one of the best guided fly fishing trips on the planet. Want to learn more? Click here to listen to Will Blair, Kamchatka fishing enthusiast, discuss fly fishing the legendary waters of Kamchatka on the WAYPOINTS Podcast.

3. The Bahamas

Recently, destinations for fly fishing in the Bahamas have expanded their options for permit and tarpon, but, The Bahamas is known for bonefish…and the abundance of world-class, historically significant bonefish guides make a trip to The Bahamas one of the best-guided fly fishing trips in the world. Throughout the islands of The Bahamas, lies a network of pristine water and a gigantic network of unspoiled flats. Throughout these islands are some of the planet’s most talented, knowledgeable, and hard-working fishing guides working out of a diverse selection of lodges—from mom and pop guesthouses to luxury resorts to angler-centric lodges.

With over 700 islands in The Bahamas, bonefish swim in many places. And some of these bonefish are big. An angler desiring to catch a double-digit bonefish will surely find opportunities in The Bahamas. Whether it is the massive expanse of the west-side of Andros or the logistically easy flats of Grand Bahama , a Bahamas trip to fly fish for bonefish is equal parts adventure, a lesson in the history of fly fishing for bonefish, and relative ease of travel due to its proximity to the U.S.

+ View Our Bahamas Fly Fishing Trips

Wild steelhead, trophy pike, and plenty more wild trout rivers and creeks to fish in a lifetime. If you were to use only one word to describe fly fishing in Canada, that word would definitely be “variety.” From the legendary steelhead waters of British Columbia to the trout-rich rivers of Alberta to the pike-filled lakes of Saskatchewan, a fly fishing trip to Canada is a must.

Serious and slightly more experienced anglers may be interested in the challenge of wild steelhead in British Columbia – home to the world’s most famous steelhead rivers and the largest trophy sea-run rainbows on the planet. One of the single most overlooked aspects of Canada's fly fishing scene is what they offer the trout angler. We know that the words "world-class" and "best" get thrown around a lot, but we're not kidding about their trout fishing - we'll leave it at that!

Canada, as a country, takes their fishing seriously as well. With well-planned and highly managed fisheries, anglers can expect quality fishing from steelhead, native cutthroat, and backcountry trophy pike. As one of the largest countries on earth, Canada has endless lakes, rivers, and coastlines to fish.

+ View Our Canada Fly Fishing Trips

Deep in the Santa Cruz region of Bolivia, the Secure, Aguas Negras, Pluma, and Itizirama rivers twist and turn through rugged peaks and jungles. These four rivers sustain healthy populations of Golden Dorado , a fish known for its acrobatics and sheer power. Golden Dorado is the apex predator in these rivers and roams the waters with a sense of pride. While Golden Dorado is not threatened by any larger predators, they can be easily spooked and a bit of a challenge to catch, making them an ideal quarry for fly anglers.

Using the local knowledge of life-long resident guides, a dorado fly fishing trip is one of the best-guided fly fishing trips on the planet. Deep in the Bolivian jungle are destination fishing lodges catering only to anglers pursuing aggressive dorado. But, the fish are not the only draw—the jungle itself is alone worth the trip. Nowhere else in the world can you wade a mountain stream and have thousands of butterflies dot the banks.

To give a sense of the remoteness of this operation, no motorized boats are allowed on these rivers. Instead, anglers fish out of wooden canoes that resemble what the natives of the region use. Want to learn more? Click here to listen to Bolivian golden dorado fishing enthusiast, Marcelo Perez, discuss Bolivian golden dorado on the WAYPOINTS Podcast!

+ View our Bolivia Golden Dorado Fly Fishing Trips

6. Montana and Idaho’s Specially Permitted Float Fishing Trips

Montana’s Smith River and Idaho’s Middle Fork of the Salmon River have many great things in common—they all flow through beautiful canyons, they are home to abundant populations of wild trout, and they require a specially regulated permit for any fly fishing trip. Because of the remote nature of these rivers and their restricted permits, they are all some of the best guided fly fishing trips on the planet.

A trip on Idaho’s Middle Fork of the Salmon is the epitome of great food, fish-eating dry flies, and an exciting yet safe river. For non-anglers, this trip is a perfect blend of relaxation, scenery, wildlife, and great service. The outfitter and guides pride themselves in their knowledge of the canyon’s history and geology.

Montana’s Smith River is pristine, protected, and isolated. Smith River flows for 60 miles through a beautiful limestone canyon. At the end of each day, spacious two-person tents are pitched, the camp is set up, dinner is cooking, and drinks and appetizers are ready. And, we haven’t even talked about the fishing yet. The quality of the professional guides here matches the consistently good fishing for wild brown, rainbow, and westslope cutthroat trout. While fish numbers and action tend to be great, by the morning of the second day most folks find the fishing a close second to the beauty of the river. Want to learn more? Click here to listen to Jake Wells, Yellow Dog's U.S. West program director, discuss planning a trip out West.

This island country is the largest island in the Caribbean and it may only be ninety miles from the United States, but it is a long way from any other fly fishing trip around. Home to the Big Three—tarpon, permit, and bonefish—a fly fishing trip to Cuba is equal parts consistently good fly fishing for saltwater species, cultural experience, and spending time with some experienced and passionate saltwater flats fishing guides.

A trip to Cuba is also about visiting the country and seeing a destination that in many ways has not really changed much since the late 1950’s. The fishing can be exciting and productive, but a visit to Havana and some of the more rural areas of the island to experience the sights, the sounds, the people, the great old cars, the music, and the overall culture that Cuba has to offer is what makes these trips special.

A fly fishing trip to Cuba with Yellow Dog is 100% legal and by booking a trip to this unique country with Yellow Dog you can be assured we will work to make a Cuba fly fishing trip as seamless as it will be enjoyable.

+ View Our Cuba Fly Fishing Trips

8. Patagonia

With majestic volcanoes, expanses of backcountry rarely explored, and generations of experienced fly fishing guides, Patagonia is a land filled with amazing fly fishing trips. In fact, choosing which country —Chile or Argentina—provides an exciting component to planning a trip.

Patagonia is one of the premier freshwater fly fishing destinations in the world – a productive, one-of-a-kind region in South America that is home to dozens of lodges, experienced and professional guides, and more rivers, streams, and lakes that can possibly be fished in a lifetime. The options and choices are endless, which is why deciding on where, when, and how to fish Patagonia can at times be overwhelming . But, whether you choose a fly fishing trip to Chile or a trip to Argentina, your experience will surely be one of the best guided fly fishing trips in the world.

The Patagonia region is a vast area of land that stretches more than 260,000 square miles across the bottom third of Chile and Argentina, bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Pacific Ocean on the west. It is a freshwater angler's dream come true. Want to learn more? Click here to listen to Travis Smith and Rance Rathie, owners of Patagonia River Guides, discuss the inside information on fly fishing in Patagonia on the WAYPOINTS Podcast.

+ View Our Patagonia, Argentina and Chile Fly Fishing Trips

9. New Zealand

Considered a bucket list trip for many anglers, a guided fly fishing trip in New Zealand is a lot more attainable than you may think. Sure, this is the land of heli-fishing and sight-fishing to enormous brown trout during an “ epic Mouse Year ," but, first-time anglers to this island nation, paired with a correct New Zealand fly fishing guide, can discover why New Zealand is a destination for all abilities of anglers.

+ View Our New Zealand Fly Fishing Trips

This might have been one of the last states to enter the Union, but it is the largest in terms of fishing options. Covering over 371 million acres, Alaska contains one-fifth of the total landmass of the Lower 48, more than half of America’s national parkland, 80% of America’s national wildlife refuge land, and more world-class fishing water than a person could possibly explore in a lifetime. From high-end fly-out lodges to remote tent camps to overnight float trips in the bush, our Alaskan fly fishing operations are the very best at delivering great fishing, personalized service, and a fantastic experience. Want to learn more? Click here to listen to Camille Egdorf discuss Alaska trip planning and how to do it right on the WAYPOINTS Podcast.

+ View Our Alaska Fly Fishing Trips

Yellow Dog got its start in Belize over twenty years ago. Belize is home to some of the finest saltwater flats on the planet. The entire coastline of this beautiful Central American country hosts a broad range of species and a variety of different fishing scenarios. Whether you’re looking for a fishing-focused adventure, a first-time saltwater experience, or the perfect couples or family vacation; fly fishing in Belize truly offers something for everyone

+ View Our Belize Fly Fishing Trips

The Big Three—tarpon, bonefish, and permit—of the Yucatan and the exciting fishing off Baja, Mexico is an exciting destination with a massive amount of variety. The diversity of species and fishing scenarios make the Yucatán and Baja the perfect destinations for first-time flats anglers, offshore anglers, intermediate anglers to experienced anglers, and any non-angling companions. Want to learn more? Click here to listen to Shaun Lawson discuss the realities of fly fishing in Mexico on the WAYPOINTS Podcast.

+ View Our Mexico Fly Fishing Trips

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• From Montana to Argentina: 6 World-Class Fly-Fishing Destinations Around the Globe

Few sports offer fly-fishing’s natural splendor—especially if you seek out these global destinations.

David coggins, david coggins's most recent stories.

• On the Tranquility and Intensity of Pursuing Fly-Fishing’s Elusive Grand Slam
• This Remote Lodge in Chile Offers Some of the Most Scenic Fishing in the World
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After a year spent in close quarters, it’s time to re-emerge into the world in pursuit of a grand dream. For the angler, what’s grander and dreamier than fly- fishing on storied water? The venerable pastime, one of the original outdoor sports, has many benefits: It’s pursued in solitude and, more often than not, in extraordinary settings. Here, terrific angling destinations both near and far that will connect you to the natural world—and, hopefully, to a memorable fish.

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Stalking the Bahama flats by skiff.  Alex Fenlon/Eleven Experience

There are many ways to fish the Treasure State, from floating the Beaverhead River to wading the Spring Creeks in Paradise Valley. If you’re not in the mood to rough it, check into the five-star Ranch at Rock Creek and stay in one of its stylish canvas cabins. The ranch also has a terrific chef, so dinner will be something to look forward to, often prepared over a wood fire and served outside under the stars. Book a trip now for mid-June, when the famous salmonflies—enormous, pre-historic insects the size of spark plugs—are hatching. Trout love them, which makes for one of angling’s great equations.

THE BAHAMAS

The flats here are vast, wide-open and purely elemental: sand, water, salt air. In this paradise, time is spent wading in near-silence searching for bonefish, known as the silver phantom. When everything finally aligns and there’s a fish on the line, you find yourself connected to something truly wild: It sprints away from you at an explosive run, your reel fizzing, feeling as if it might burst into flame. Small groups chasing this thrill can book the Eleven Experience Mothership , a well-appointed 74-foot Hatteras yacht that anchors off the famous southwest coast of Andros . You’ll have easy access to some of the best flats in the Bahamas, plus cocktails waiting for you at the end of the day.

A brook trout pulled from the waters in Patagonia.  Matt Jones/Eleven Experience

Are you patient? Can you wait, if it’s for a good cause? Then it might be time to pursue the Atlantic salmon, called “the fish of a thousand casts” because it’s so difficult to catch—which of course makes a triumph all the more cathartic. Improve your odds at the Rifflin’ Hitch Lodge , in Labrador, which takes pride in its ambitious, locally sourced cuisine (the menu changes daily). Your cabin is so close to the water that you can fall asleep at night dreaming of salmon while listening to the sounds of the Eagle River.

Feel free to wear tweed while fly-fishing from the banks of one of the storied chalk streams where the sport began. (The brown trout is the gentleman of fish, and one dresses properly to show respect.) In a perfect world your trip will coincide with the mayfly hatch, usually toward the end of May. The trout anticipate these large, green, joyous insects, so anglers do, too. But you don’t just stride up to such rarefied water: You pay for access and reserve a beat—a mile or so stretch of river— through one of the many outfitters, such as Fishing Breaks . You might pop into a little hut on each beat for a cup of tea or a wee dram before hitting the water again. It’s the most civilized fishing you’ll ever experience.

Rib-eye steaks in a cast-iron skillet at the Ranch at Rock Creek.  Lynn Donaldson

One place, three fish. Ascension Bay on the Yucatán Peninsula is where you can pursue the sport’s grand slam—bonefish; ancient, immense tarpon; and the mercurial and highly coveted permit—all in the same day. Book the sought-after Casa Blanca , the open-air main lodge set right on the water, where you can retire to one of the private, thatched-roof bungalows. With snorkeling, kayaking, hiking and nearby Mayan ruins, it’s an especially good option if you’re traveling with non-fishing civilians.

Battle Harbour, on Canada’s Labrador coast.  Peter Crosby

If you think you’re ready for the big one, all the way down to the Southern Hemisphere, shadowing the legends of Butch Cassidy and Bruce Chatwin, then head to Patagonia. It’s so vast it can be hard to decide a destination, but aficionados find their way to Patagonia River Guides Lodge , set in a mountain valley in Trevelin . This gorgeous accommodation allows access to an incredible array of fishing options—rivers, spring creeks, lakes—as well as amenities such as a new spa and the whiskey bar, the perfect place to celebrate your triumphs or toast the one that got away. David Coggins’s new book, The Optimist: A Case for the Fly Fishing Life, is out May 4 from Scribner Books.

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5 Can’t-Miss Backcountry Trout-Fishing Expeditions

Get off the grid and catch truly wild trout this summer

By Sage Marshall | Published May 27, 2021 12:00 PM EDT

Finding solitude on remote rivers and lakes that are full of fat—and hungry—wild fish is what trout fishing is really all about. While you might spend most of your time fishing easily-accessed waters near home, it pays to hoof it into the backcountry once in a while in search of wild trout. The following public-land trips aren’t for the faint of heart, but for the angler willing to brave the elements, they’re more than worth it. 

Some of these areas can be accessed on long day trips, but you’ll probably want to spend several days fishing to make the trip worth it. Consider backpacking or using a pack animal to bring both your fishing and camping equipment with you. Pack as light as you can without skimping on your tackle. There’s nothing worse than realizing you’re getting skunked miles into the boonies just because you neglected to bring the right lures or flies with you. Instead, come fully prepared—and then get after it.  

1. Golden Trout Wilderness, California

Get in on a modern-day gold rush in California’s 304,000-acre Golden Trout Wilderness . The wilderness area is located on the Kern Plateau at the Southern end of the Sierra Nevada mountains—only a couple of hours drive inland from Los Angeles. Don’t let the close proximity to this metropolis fool you, this large span of uninhabited land is a haven for golden trout, a subspecies of rainbow trout native to California. Golden trout don’t grow very big, but they’re exceptionally beautiful, making catching a golden trout a bucket list endeavor for fly and spin anglers alike. There are hundreds of trails that zigzag through the wilderness area. They give anglers the ability to find solitude on countless lakes as well as the North and South Forks of the Kern River. All fishing is catch-and-release—Golden Trout rarely get big enough for eating anyway. Permits are required for all overnight visits and are available at the Inyo National Forest ranger station .

2. Upper Raven Fork, North Carolina

You’ll find fat brookies in the Upper Raven Fork, which is a remote but productive watershed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . Access to the Raven Fork requires several miles of hiking, and it’s best to reserve this place for multi-day adventures. The stream was closed to fishing for almost 30-years as part of a broader effort to restore native brook trout populations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—and the efforts paid off. Nowadays, anglers report routinely catching big brookies. Expect pocket-water fishing with gin-clear water, small waterfalls, and deep pools. As with all small stream fishing, stealth is a must. Don’t be surprised if you hook into a few rainbows, which also haunt the stream. If you want a change of scenery, leave the Upper Raven Fork and explore the 800-miles of streams that contain fish in the rest of the National Park. 

3. Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, Idaho

The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness is a vast span of truly wild land in central Idaho. The massive 2,366,757-acre wilderness area is the largest contiguous wilderness area in the lower 48. Its sheer size promises anglers solitude in a rugged landscape featuring steep mountains, deep canyons, and superb fishing. Anglers can target big trout in the Salmon River Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon. Floating 104 miles of the Middle Fork is a bucket-list trip, but you’ll also find plenty of fishing elsewhere, from small streams to high alpine lakes. You could spend a lifetime fishing the Frank Church without running out of new fishing holes. 

4. Bridger Wilderness, Wyoming

Bridger Wilderness is a cutthroat trout haven that encompasses 2.25-million acres in central Wyoming. Amid countless 13,000-foot-high peaks in the Wind River Mountain Range, there are over 2,300 lakes in the wilderness area spread over 80-miles along the western slope of the Continental Divide. That’s so many lakes that people have lost track of which lakes actually have fish in them. There are several well-known fishing hotspots, but the real fun comes from charting an expedition to explore remote lakes that might not have been fished in years. You’ll find wild rainbows, cutties, brook trout, and even golden trout. And because of the abundance of bug life, the goldens in the Wind River Range can reach over 16-inches—which is significantly larger than they do in their native territory in California. Good navigation skills are of utmost importance in this remote region of wilderness as are common sense precautions required for traveling in a landscape replete with grizzlies and gray wolves. 

Read Next: 9 Ways to Find Unknown Fishing Hotspots

5. Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, Colorado

The Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is hands-down one of the most scenic and angler-friendly stretches of water in the continental U.S. The BLM area spans 62,844 acres of public land that’s just downstream of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The river is notoriously difficult to access. High-clearance 4-wheel-drive vehicles are required to get to three different trailheads, all of which require over one mile of hiking to reach the water. The river is small enough to wade but several local outfitters run multi-day float fish excursions that require packing supplies into the canyon by mule and running class 3 and 4 rapids. The river is known for its 20-inch-plus rainbows but also boasts impressive browns. Fly anglers will especially appreciate the giant stonefly hatch in early June, but good fishing can be found year-round for those willing to put in the work to reach the water.

Sage Marshall joined Field & Stream as an editorial intern in 2018, when he worked at the publication’s former office in Manhattan. His desk-mate was a mounted warthog. After graduating from college, he worked as a freelance journalist for two years before returning to the F&S team full-time in 2021 as the brand’s News Editor.

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10 Bucket-List Fishing Trips for Anglers on a Budget

Every angler has a dream. Whether it’s catching a certain species or traveling to an exotic location, there’s not a fisherman out there who doesn’t harbor some fishy fantasies they swear they’re going to do before they die. Unfortunately, many of these angling dreams often require dipping into the kid’s college fund or taking out a second mortgage on your home.

Giant trevally in the Seychelles may never be in reach for some of us. But, with a bit of planning and flexibility, there are plenty of world-class fishing destinations across the continent that will fulfill your dreams (or at least scratch the itch until you can get around to the big one). Budgeted out into seven-day expeditions, these are the perfect trips to get you off the couch, away from YouTube fantasies, and to start living your dreams.

Adventure in Alaska: Giant Salmon and Trout on the Kenai Peninsula From the mountains to the bears to the fish–everything about Alaska is big –but that doesn’t mean your budget has to be in order to fish there. For the DIY angler, there’s no better place to have an affordable Alaskan adventure than the Kenai Peninsula. According to Jackie Bowman, owner and head guide of Cooper Landing Fishing Guide , the best fishing on the Kenai Peninsula is right along the main highway.

“The Sterling Highway follows Kenai Lake and the Kenai River for most of its length,” Bowman said. “On the Upper Kenai in Cooper Landing, there are lots of parking areas on public land along the river where you can easily park and walk in. The Russian River is well-known for its easy wading access to excellent sockeye and coho salmon fishing–no bushwhacking required. The first run of sockeye salmon from mid-June until early July is headed straight for the Russian River, which is only ankle- to knee-deep in most spots, making it easy to spot fish.”

Countless other streams and the mainstem of the Kenai can yield truly giant Chinook salmon and native rainbow trout, as well as the suit of other resident and anadromous species. There are plenty of camping areas and public-use cabins along the entire route, averaging around $15 to $20 per night. While you will have to rent a car for the adventure, apps like Turo can make that cheaper with most cars costing as little as $50 to $150 per day out of Anchorage. All told, with a seven-day Alaska fishing license, the trip can be done for $800 after flights.

Battle the Silver King: Tarpon in Tampa Bay, Florida The promise of hooking a tarpon drives anglers to exotic destinations like Cuba and Costa Rica, spending thousands on plane tickets, lodges, and guides. While all these places are worth visiting someday, if you need to get your tarpon fix sooner rather than later and you need to do it on the cheap, there’s no better place than in the waters of Tampa Bay.

From May through July, tarpon storm the bay like an invading army, ranging in sizes from 60 to more than 200 pounds. The fishing can be hot and heavy, with anglers occasionally getting a dozen or more shots or hookups with fish on flies, lures, or bait. Though it’s not entirely necessary, your best bet at landing a tarpon is by hiring a local, inexpensive guide, usually costing between $300 to $500 per day. One such option is world-renowned fly angler and Tampa Bay guide, Brian Jill of Lost Coast Anglers.

“Tampa Bay offers an incredible opportunity to target big migratory tarpon and not break the bank doing so. It’s one of the easiest tarpon locations in the U.S. to travel to and try your chances at the silver king,” Jill said. While he recommends hiring a guide for targeting tarpon, Jill also said there is ample opportunity for DIY anglers to target other species.

“Come down for a week, spend a few days with a guide for tarpon, and then spend the rest of your time on the miles of public beaches chasing snook and other species like sea trout and redfish ,” he said.

With numerous hotels in the area ranging from $65 to $200 a night and a seven-day fishing license going for $30, Tampa Bay can provide one of the most memorable saltwater fishing experiences of your life for under $1,500 once you get there.

Become a Bassmaster: Largemouth in San Diego, California More than one angler has hauled a truckload of spinnerbaits , soft plastics, and crankbaits , to the Golden State with the hopes of breaking the double-digit mark with a bass. While that's a tall order in most of the country, it's very possible on some of the public big bass factories in the extreme southwest corner of the country.

“Almost every lake in the San Diego area has shore access or places to rent boats,” professional bass angler and MeatEater contributor Oliver Ngy said. “Whether you’re fishing Lower Otay, Lake Murray, or smaller lakes like Dickson, there are fish capable of hitting 25 pounds in every one of them.”

Oliver recommends most DIY anglers drive out or rent a car so they can move around to different lakes in search of the hot bite, which can vary depending on the time of year.

“Pre-spawn happens in mid to late February, and then after that most of the lakes fish pretty solid through the entire post-spawn,” Oliver said. “But on some lakes, the bass are going to be more active and you’ll get a great reaction bait bite when the water temp hits around 70 degrees. On good days you can catch 20 fish a day and on occasion, you can get into a fish in the high teens or even the low 20s.”

There are dozens of hotels in the San Diego area where rooms are available for under $100 and there’s a myriad of affordable campgrounds ranging between $18 to $40 a night, some right alongside good bass water. All told, with rental boat fees, a fishing license, and a hotel or campground, a DIY big bass venture to San Diego can cost as little as $600.

The Sport of Kings: Atlantic Salmon in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia Many anglers consider dry fly fishing for Atlantic salmon the holy grail of fly fishing. A fish of the aristocracy, in most places they are only available to anglers who can pay exorbitant prices to fish on private waters at extravagant lodges. However, there is one place where any fly angler with salmon aspirations can go and try their luck: Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.

Thanks to some brilliant and long-standing legislation, all waters in the province of Nova Scotia are open to the public. Avid salmon angler and a local guide for 30 years, Robert Chiasson of dryflysalmon.com believes Cape Breton is the perfect place for an angler on a budget to fulfill their Atlantic salmon dreams.

“We have big salmon returns, inexpensive licenses, and no angling fees. Basically for $63 ($49 USD), you come here for a week and fish anywhere on the river. There’s public access on all the private property, no posted properties here, and the landowners are all friendly and very welcoming,” Chiasson said. “We have one of the longest seasons for salmon, starting June 1 and running all the way through October. Because the fishing changes almost continuously throughout the season, and we don’t fish the same water every day, it’s best to hire a guide for a day or two who can at least send you in the right direction.”

With plenty of free and inexpensive camping around the island, guide services running around $300 per day, plus a license, you can make your Atlantic salmon dreams come true for right around $500, post-flight or drive.

Catch a Monster: Pike in the Adirondack Park, New York While there are many places anglers can find the giant pike they’re looking for, they often require expensive fly-in trips to places like Ontario and Saskatchewan. Yet for the intrepid DIY angler, some of the best and cheapest opportunities for a monster northern can be found right in the New York State.

Anglers can access some of the finest pike fishing in the country with just a canoe or small rowboat, which are available for rent in many areas. During the months of May and June, lots of fish reaching 40 to 50 inches crowd the weedy bays of lakes and rivers across Essex and Franklin counties in a hedonistic celebration of post-spawn gluttony. While there are plenty of options in the areas as far as bodies of water, your best bet for a truly giant pike are both the Upper and Lower Saranac Lake, Lake Flower, and Tupper Lake. All three are located along Route 3 running west from Lake Placid (another pike haven) and all three have many public access points and boat launches.

There are several hotels in Saranac which go for around $100 per night, dozens of campgrounds priced between $25 and $40 per night, and a plethora of free campsites and lean-tos along the route. With a seven-day license and boat rental, you can have a fantastic big pike adventure for around $400.

The Heart of The Sea: Marlin in Baja California, Mexico Few anglers have read Hemingway’s The Old Man and The Sea and not been inspired to head out onto the open ocean and test their will against a marlin. While there are a lot of beautiful and exotic places to try marlin fishing, the best bang for your buck has got to be Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, the marlin fishing capital of the world.

What separates Cabo from all the other marlin fishing destinations is the number of fish. The consistent water temperatures, deep water structure, and abundant baitfish make it perfect marlin territory, depending on timing. Striped, black, and blue marlin return there and can be caught many months of the year. With so many fish, Cabo is home to hundreds of marlin charters and captains, some of whom will take you out for as little as $300. However, in marlin fishing, you get what you pay for, so it’s worth spending a bit more to guarantee yourself a shot at the fish. But according to Jim Korphinski, owner of Blue-Sky Cabo Fishing Charters, there’s some wiggle room.

“You need to spend a bit of money, but most boat captains in the area are flexible and can adjust your charter to your budget,” Korphinski said. “For $5,000 or $6,000 we can go out and catch 10 marlin or more in a day, but if you only have $1,000 we can still go out and catch three or four. It generally goes down the scale from there.”

Marlin fishing is expensive wherever you go, but local guides with smaller boats can get you into fish for surprisingly low rates in Mexico. With hotels costing as little as $30 a night and licenses costing only $20, you can spend seven days in Cabo with a shot at a marlin every day for between $1,000 and $2,000 once you make the international flight.

Metal Dreams: Monster Rainbows and Browns in Pulaski, New York Say what you want about whether the fish of the Great Lakes are real steelhead or not . Having fished for both the West Coast steelhead and their Great Lakes cousins, I’ve got to say that the adfluvial rainbows of Pulaski are as close to the real thing as you’re going to find. What’s more, unlike on the West Coast, the fantastic hatchery program and a significant amount of wild spawning in Pulaski yield an incredibly high number of fish from November to May, virtually guaranteeing you’ll have a shot at some chrome. And, if you don't, you might just run into the brown trout of your life instead.

Though there are a few options, the best bet for the DIY angler is in the Salmon River, which flows from the town of Altmar and through Pulaski before dumping into Lake Ontario. By following Route 13, which runs beside the river along its length, you’ll find plenty of public parking areas around famous pools where you can fish. With a few pointers from the local tackle shops, the Salmon River is an easy enough river to figure out. MeatEater Senior Fishing Editor Joe Cermele believes the biggest reason this area is ideal for the steelhead angler on a budget is because it’s so easily customizable.

“The coolest thing about Pulaski is you can make a visit anything you want it to be,” Joe said. “Like to sit on a leather couch by a roaring fire drinking Scotch after catching steelhead? There are plenty of fine lodges. On a Burger King budget? There are plenty of smaller family-owned motels that won't break the bank. On a ramen-noodle-in-the-microwave budget? Try the Super 8. Over the years, I've stayed in all these places, and to be honest, I've always had a better time piled into a cheap rental cabin with a few buddies than having to put on clean pants to go to dinner in the ritzy joints.”

With a ton of possibilities for lodging in Pulaski that range from $25 campgrounds to $300 lodges, how much you spend in Pulaski is up to you. But if you’re on the thrifty side, you could get in a full week there for as little as $400.

The Land of Giants: Pyramid Lake, Nevada With the arrival of winter, many trout anglers begin to fantasize about heading to the Southern Hemisphere and places like Patagonia and New Zealand to land a truly monumental trout. But getting to those locations can cost an arm and a leg. For the winter trout angler on a budget, there’s another, much less costly option– Pyramid Lake, Nevada.

Situated just outside of Reno, Pyramid is a 125,000-acre lake home to some of the largest trout in the world, the Lahontan cutthroat. These massive fish can reach sizes up into the 40-pound range and are easily caught either from a boat or along the shore of the lake during a season that runs from October to June. Fishing Pyramid is simple: you just need to cast the right lure or fly as far as you can from shore and then retrieve it slowly or leave it suspended under a bobber. It only takes a bit of patience and a lot of luck for one of the monster Lahontans to come along and smash it, giving you a chance to perhaps land the biggest trout of your life.

The area around the lake has a ton of public access thanks to the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe who protect and manage the areas around the lake for fishing access. A three-day fishing license for Pyramid costs $62 and there are several hotels and camping sites in the area that range from $25 to $200 dollars a night. All in all, you can have six days fishing for giant trout for as little as $600.

Getting Smashed: Peacock Bass in South Florida Peacock bass are just about the fastest-striking, hardest-fighting, and most beautiful fish in freshwater. Just saying the name of these fish causes anglers to start fantasizing about long exotic trips to the Amazon that they might never actually afford. But, if catching a peacock bass is your dreams, you don’t have to travel so far to catch them. There are plenty of peacock opportunities on home soil, swimming feral in the waters of South Florida. Joe Cermele believes that traveling down to Florida for peacocks is a trip that every angler should do .

“I've written in the past that South Florida peacock bass should be something every American angler chases before he or she heads off to the big pond in the sky,” Joe said. “Pound for pound, I don't know if there's a freshwater fish you can target with bass gear that fights as hard. I'm a diehard smallmouth guy, but even they don't scrap like peacocks.”

Although the backdrop may not have the same mystique as the Amazon, Florida offers a plethora of locations to target peacocks.

“People ask me about chasing them around Miami. They're hoping for specific spots, but the reality is those fish are everywhere down there and there is no shortage of public access. You can walk canals for miles and hop to different culverts and drainage ditches all day long. One of the biggest peacocks I ever caught in public water was behind a chain grocery store,” Joe said. “If you want peace and quiet, go explore on the outskirts of town along the edge of the Everglades. But if you love an urban adventure, stick within the city limits. In my experience, the people have been friendly, and I've had some of the best Cuban food of my life at small mom-and-pop restaurants nestled in the neighborhoods where peacocks swim.”

There are dozens of inexpensive campgrounds and hotels in South Florida to choose from. With a little bit of research and some ingenuity, any angler can have a fantastic peacock adventure for around $500.

Flats in the Farmland Wandering flats of the Florida Keys or Belize is a costly dream for many anglers. Yet if it’s something you just can manage to pull together, why not try looking a little further north? Along the North Shore of Lake Michigan are miles and miles of sandy beaches and shallow, hard-bottomed coves that provide some of the best flats fishing on the planet.

While you may not be pursuing vaunted saltwater flats species like permit , bonefish , or barracuda, the flats of Lake Michigan are chock-full of their freshwater counterparts like carp , smallmouth , and northern pike .

Just like on the tropical flats you’ve always fantasized about, the flats of the North Shore are all about sight fishing and making perfect casts with a fly or lure to large, ominous shadows. According to Kevin Morelock of Indigo Guide Service, who guides the flats around Beaver Island, the vastness of Lake Michigan and the size of the flats make the venture almost identical to saltwater flats fishing, with one major difference.

“If you’re after bonefish or permit, a good day may mean getting between 20 and 50 shots at a fish,” Morelock said. “The amount of shots you’ll get at fish up here is unparallel to any other flat fishing situation. We’re talking 75 to 200 shots a day. Between May and July, we’re talking about a ‘quantity of quality fish.’ I mean, we cast small flies for 30-pound carp, and you’re almost guaranteed a 5-pound smallie on a popper in June. We have pike just around the 40-inch mark coming up on the flats, and if you pair that with sight fishing, it’s pretty cool. That’s just pretty damn stellar flats fishing right there.”

There is an absolute myriad of campgrounds along the North Shore along with a couple dozen inexpensive hotels. If they’re creative, a North Shore flats angler can get up there and fish their heart out for around $300.

Live the Dream While the budgets on these trips don’t include the airfare, gas mileage, or the price of the gifts you’ll have to buy for your spouse to make up for taking off fishing for a week, they’re all still comparatively affordable. If you’re thrifty enough to sleep in your tent and eat instant mashed potatoes and wild game or fish, they can be even cheaper. In the end, it’s your adventure and you can fish it however you choose.

*Images via Jackie Bowman, Tosh Brown, Oliver Ngy, Robert Chiasson, Sam Lungren, and the author. *

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15 Best Bass Fishing Vacations. A Complete Guide.

Spending a day on the lake is a great way to break from the norm, get some rest, enjoy relief from stress, and enjoy nature. Embarking on a trip focused on bass fishing takes respite to an entirely new level.

Most of the following top bass fishing vacation spots include the following:

• Guides or boat rentals
• Enough fishable water to support more than one day of fishing.

The following destinations are not listed in any particular order.

Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive trip, a great fishing lodge, or for a guide trip, I’ve uncovered 15 of the best bass fishing vacations for catching fish and having fun!

1. Dream Lake Lodge

Livingston, Alabama

Dream Lake Lodge is a one-of-a-kind outdoor destination offering a variety of hunting and fishing excursions ranging from deer and turkey hunting to bass fishing in their own on-site lakes.

Lakes are filled with plenty of cover, including sunken rock piles and timber, as well as structures like ledges and ditches.    

Dream Lake provides EVERYTHING needed for the trip of a lifetime, including rods, reels, tackle, and even bass boats.

The 5 bedroom lodge is situated perfectly overlooking the lake with breathtaking views. Each bedroom is outfitted with two queen beds and a private bathroom. Dream Lake also includes a bunk room that includes 6 sets of bunk beds and two full baths. Max capacity at the lodge is 22 people.

Finally, dining is a real treat at the lodge, with home-cooked style meals served in a quaint but large dining room complete with a fireplace.

2. Lake Fork Lodge

Alba, Texas

The Lake Fork Lodge , located on the shores of world-renowned Lake Fork, has been recognized by Sports Afield Magazine as one of the top 14 Bass Fishing Lodges in the United States and has earned a spot on our Top 15 for good reason.   

If you’re looking for one of the best bass fishing vacations in Texas, the Lake Fork Lodge is a great bet. The venue includes an amazing lodge and bass guide service and boasts a world-class fishery.

Lake Fork Reservoir is almost 28,000 acres of prime bass fishing, known for lunker bass, including many over the 12 and 13-pound range.   According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website , 

“More than 65% of the Texas Top 50 largest bass (including the current state record) and more than half of those entered in the Toyota ShareLunker Program, were caught from Lake Fork.”

The grounds include a boat ramp for launching your own boat, or visitors can commission one of the lodge’s knowledgeable guides for a great day of guided bass fishing on Lake Fork.

The 7-bedroom lodge is located on 5 acres of lush landscaping and includes a private boat ramp for guest usage.   Amenities include a lodge hot tub, billiards, grilling area, and patio. The lodge provides a satisfying breakfast to help kick start the morning before an amazing day of fishing. After a long day of great fishing, enjoy time by the fire pit, then grab a great night’s sleep while you rest easy in s ide the gated facility.

3. Bienville

White Springs, FL

This outstanding and incredibly unique fishery is a chain of lakes (thousands of acres) produced as a result of phosphate mining in Florida. Phosphate pits in Florida are well known for their abundant and healthy populations of Florida bass, but many former mining pits are private and inaccessible. Not so with Bienville. It’s accessible and very fishable.

Bienville is mega bass heaven (the largest bass out of lakes, according to the Bienville website, is a whopping 15.68 pounds). Each of the lakes on the chain is a bit different, with varying depth, structure, and cover, so anglers will have the opportunity to employ a wide variety of techniques throughout their stay.   Guides are available to help guests enjoy a day of carefree fishing and catching!

Bienville lodging is second to none and includes 5 large lodges, each with 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, as well as a great room with a fireplace, tv, internet, kitchen, and lakefront porches.  

Bienville dining includes fine dining prepared and created to satisfy with a 5-course meal as well as buffets for larger groups. Breakfast, dinner, and lunch are available as part of the stay.

Taking a bass fishing vacation to Bienville in Florida is sure to impress. Bienville is a perfect spot to create lasting memories.

4. Big Cedar Lodge

Ridgedale, Missouri

Big Cedar is truly an all-inclusive bass fishing resort like none other.   It is SIGNIFICANTLY more than a simple bass fishing vacation spot. The resort community is located on Table Rock Lake and was created by the founder of Bass Pro Shops, Johnny Morris.  

This fishing-inspired resort offers much more than a place to lay your head after a day of bass fishing. Among its vast array of amenities are the following:

• 50,000 square foot Fun Mountain activity center (bowling, laser tag, go-karts, etc.)
• World-class spa
• 5 Golf Courses
• Hiking Trails
• Segway tours
• A Working Grist Mill
• Horseback Riding
• Wildlife Tram tours
• Miniature Golf
• Canoes and kayaks
• Multiple swimming pools and hot tubs
• A Lazy River
• Fitness Center
• Private beach 
• Shooting range and academy
• Organized activities
• Boat Rentals

Accommodations are plentiful, with 302 different options, including lodge rooms, private cabins, glamping setups, and cottages.

With multiple restaurant options and in-room service, there are seemingly endless choices to make when it comes to dining at Big Cedar, including awesome places like the Osage Restaurant (fine dining) and the End of the Trail All-American Wine Cellar.

All this, on top of the amazing Table Rock fishery, makes for an amazing all-inclusive bass fishing trip perfect for families, couples, or corporate outings.

5. Kentucky Lake’s Big Bear Resort   

Benton, Kentucky 

Located on the shores of Kentucky Lake, Big Bear Resort is a 52-acre complex complete with lodging, a private beach, a pool, and a marina.   

There are also a number of beautifully decorated private lodging options available, including cottages, cabins, condos, and townhomes.   Guests also have access to a well-equipped campground with shower and bathroom facilities, firewood, and laundry facilities. As an added bonus,  pets are welcome to stay.    

Bass fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the easy access to Kentucky Lake via the top-notch marina with excellent facilities and services, including gas, fish cleaning station, grocery and snack shop, boat rentals, and more. Bait and tackle are also available on-site.

Rodney Hargrove’s Guide Service is well-reputed and serves guests on trips of a lifetime on Kentucky Lake which is approximately 160,000 acres of some of the best bass fishing in the country and home to many state and national level tournaments.   

6. Lake Baccarac Lodge

When you hear Mexico and bass fishing in the same sentence, you know there’s something special in store.

Lake Baccarac Lodge is an all-inclusive bass fishing experience in Mexico offering a bass fishing vacation package on a 30,000-acre lake surrounded by mountains creating a picturesque setting fit for a king and queen. The lake boasts a Central American record 19.10-pound bass.   

Anglers enjoy world-class fishing and service, including daily maid service, freshly made breakfast, lunch, dinner, and laundry service.   

Most packages include transportation from the local airport (10 minutes) to the lodge, guide service, food, and lodging.   Guides are veterans of the lake treating guests to an international fishing experience that will make memories that last a lifetime.

7. Trails End Fishing Resort

Lorida, Florida

Lake Itokpoga is a lunker bass fishing heaven drawing bass fishermen from across the country to the nearly 27,000 acres of water teeming with largemouth Florida bass.  

This trophy bass fishing resort sits on 4 beautiful acres of land embodying old Florida.   At Trails End , anglers can choose from well-equipped cabins as well as RV sites.   Additionally, boat slips are available for the convenience of visiting anglers.   

The resort includes laundry facilities, wifi, a pool, a boat ramp, boat and kayak rentals, a gas pump for refueling, and bait and tackle supplies.   

This small, quaint lodge is budget-friendly and the perfect setting for a bass fishing vacation in Florida. Take advantage of the beautiful Florida weather at a lake known for producing trophy-size bass.

8. Live Oak Plantation  

Adel, Georgia

Live Oak Plantation is a unique bass fishing destination. The plantation is comprised of 10 privately managed lakes and ponds (from ¼ acre to over 100 acres).  

Experienced guides treat guests to a fishing experience full of fun and fishing. Bass fishing resorts in Georgia come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but Live Oak is the perfect fit for the most discriminating bass enthusiast.

Guided fishing trips include full-day fishing trips or overnight stays for longer visits. Overnight stays include rooms in the lodge and breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guided river trips are also available.    

9. Roland Martin Marina and Resort

Clewiston, Florida

Lake Okeechobee is arguably, one of the most famous bass fishing destinations in the world. The resort and marina in Clewiston hold an equally large status named after bass fishing legend Roland Martin.  

The resort is a perfect host for the ultimate bass fishing vacation situated on Lake Okeechobee’s shores, the United States’ second-largest lake. The lake has hosted numerous professional bass fishing tournaments, including FLW, Major League Fishing , Bassmaster events, and numerous Bass Nation circuit events. 

The Roland Martin Marina and Resort offers the following:

• Professional bass fishing guides are available for half and full-day trips.  
• Boat rentals include pontoon boats, V bottoms, and bass boats.
• Boat dock space as well as dry storage.
• A boat sales center with new and used boats.
• Marina with boat lifts and covered boat slips.
• A restaurant and Tiki Bar & Grill are on site.
• Repair facility and mechanics.
• Resort swimming pools

Lodging at the resort is extensive, including condo rentals, hotel rooms, cabins, and a campground.

I’ve stayed at the resort and was VERY impressed. The condo that we stayed in was NOT your typical fishing shack. It was a luxury condo with updated furniture, plenty of room, beautiful wood floors, and a TON of space. It was a first-class experience.

Insider Tip

Short and sweet “secret” = throw THIS at Okeechobee (you can find it at Amazon). You won’t regret it.

Lake Okeechobee and the Roland Martin Marina and Resort are a match made in bass fishing heaven. One visit here, and you’ll be hooked for life!

10. Outdoor Sportsman’s Lodge

Newton, Illinois

Outdoor Sportsman’s Lodge is located on the shores of Newton Lake, a fishery covering almost 1,800 acres. The 12-acre compound was built in 2004 and has been featured in a wide number of media, including over 55 television shows and a large number of publications.

Lodging consists of 6 rustic style log cabins that can accompany up to 24 total visitors.   

Guide service is available on the lake as well as boat rentals.

All-inclusive packages are the best bet for a complete vacation experience and include the following:

• 3 nights of lodging
• 2 days of guided bass fishing
• Meals are delivered by private room service

11. Highland Park Fish Camp and Campground

Deland, Florida

If you’re looking for a true old Florida-style fish camp, Highland Park is the place to be.   Located in the small town of Deland, Florida, this fishing camp is the perfect setting for your fishing adventure.  

Nestled on over 30 acres of tree-filled land, Highland Park is in bass fishing heaven with easy access to the famous St. Johns River system known for trophy catches of Florida bass.   

Highland P ark has everything you need for the ultimate bass fishing vacation.   They have 7 well-qualified bass fishing guides on staff who are U.S. Coast Guard certified and have significant experience on the river. Boats and all equipment are provided.

Fishermen may also bring their own boats and store them at the camp with 150 available wet and dry storage spaces available. Don’t have a boat? No worries. Highland Park rents out a wide variety of boats, including bass boats and pontoons.  

The fish camp offers a variety of lodging options, including air-conditioned cabins, campsites, and RV campsites as well.  

Highland Park is close enough to Orlando, so you can enjoy great bass fishing while having access to major attractions like Walt Disney World , Sea World, and Epcot.

Grab a Carolina Rig if you’re heading to the St. Johns River. You can find a great one here on Amazon.

12. Clear Lake Cottages and Marina

Clearlake, California

This destination is sure to impress, situated on the shores of Clear Lake in California.  

Clear Lake offers first-class accommodations for fishing enthusiasts, including updated cottages complete with modern kitchens.   According to clearlakecottagesandmarina.com

“Clear Lake Cottages & Marina is the premier resort location on the Clear Lake waterfront, as we have been rated #1 on TripAdvisor for five years in a row, and hold a 4.5/5 star rating and TripAdvisor’s certificate of excellence.”

Amenities include:

• BBQ grills and picnic area.
• Salt Water/Solar Heated Pool
• Bass Boat, Kayak, and Pontoon Boat Rentals

Bass fishing is out of this world on this body of water, touted as the state’s biggest natural lake. Bassmaster has also recognized the lake as one of the top bass fishing lakes in the country.  

13. Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina, and RV Resort

Lake Wales, FL

Camp Mack is a rustic setting located on the famous Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, approximately an hour from Orlando and all of the attractions that Orlando has to offer (Disney World, Sea World, and more).

I’ve spent a fair share of my time here for large bass tournaments, and the setup for fishing is perfect.   Camp Mack is one of the best bass fishing lodges in the U.S., offering great ramps and easy access to some of the best bass fishing in the state of Florida.   5 limit catches routinely hit the 20-30 pound mark, with many trophy catches coming off of the chain of lakes, which make up about 21,000 acres of prime bass fishing.

Accommodations include a lodge with special parking for trucks and boat trailers, as well as RV setups and private cabins.  

Gator Mack’s Sports Bar serves up great food, and frequently hosts live bands fit for old Florida ambiance. There’s also a small convenience-style store on site for snacks, drinks, and tackle needs.

Boat rentals (pontoon and kayak) are available, airboat rides, and professional bass guides to put you on the fish fast.   

Camp Mack also boasts plenty of other family-friendly features, including an outdoor kids’ area, pool, and bike rentals.

Mat punching with big braid is common here and almost a rite of passage. Try 65-pound braid for snatching the big ones. (Amazon)

For more information on the Kissimmee Chain and a few other Florida bass fishing destination lakes, check out Bass Fishing Insider’s article Where is the Best Bass Fishing in Florida? Top 21 Places.

 14. Mac’s Point Lodge and Marina (formerly Wingates Lodge)

Bainbridge, Georgia

Lake Seminole is an enormous and productive fishery split by the state line of Florida and Georgia. The lake is an outstanding place to fish on vacations as it offers a ton of diversity as a result of three rivers that merge together to empty into the main lake basin. Each segment of this great body of water fishes a bit differently than the others making it a rewarding challenge that can be fished with many different strategies.  

I’ve spent a good amount of time on Lake Seminole for bass tournaments and practice and am familiar with Mac’s Point. It’s a great setup for fishing the lake and is well situated in the middle of the lake for easy access.

Mac’s Point includes a great restaurant, ample ramp and parking space, and a convenience store for food, drink, and tackle needs that may come up during your stay. The setting is rustic, and the location is remote — perfect to escape the hectic pace of life.   

Accommodations include plenty of campsites and cabins.

Most notable is the history behind the lodge. According to Bassmaster ,

“Lunker Lodge was also the site of one of the most important meetings in the sport’s history when Wingate and Scott helped convince a former Georgia governor and the local manager of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that Lake Seminole should be the site of B.A.S.S.’ first tournament. Visitors to Lunker Lodge can stand in the room where the meeting took place and eat one of the restaurant’s rightfully famous hamburgers.”

Grab this before heading to Seminole. It wins a ton of tourneys there n the grass. Check it out on Amazon.

15. Black’s Camp and Restaurant

Cross, South Carolina

Black’s Camp is located on the beautiful shores of the Santee Cooper Lake system, providing visiting anglers the opportunity to spend time in a full-service atmosphere with ample bass fishing and top-notch amenities, including:

• Bass fishing guides
• Boat launch facilities for those with their own boat
• Restaurant with Sunday afternoon buffet
• Fuel station on site
• Motel rooms, efficiency apartments, mobile homes, and campground
• Convenience store with food, snacks, tackle, and more.
• Fish Cleaning Service

Bass fishing on Santee Cooper is exceptional and draws anglers from across the country, including major professional bass circuit events like Fishing League Worldwide and Bassmaster Elite events.  

Whippoorwill Sportsmanʹs Lodge – Quincy, Florida 

Although it couldn’t include the Whippoorwill in our official list because it’s missing dining options and boat rentals or guide service, the Lodge has a rich history of recreational and tournament bass fishing and deserves mention.

Lake Talquin is approximately 8,800 acres and offers anglers a mix of shoreline bass fishing and offshore and ledge fishing opportunities.  

Affectionately known as “the Whip,” the Whippoorwill Sportsman’s Lodge is located about 37 minutes West of Tallahassee, Florida’s state capitol.  

I’ve been a part of fishing tournaments at the Whip and can attest to the unique country charm of the facilities run by some great people.  

Lodging is lakefront and includes convenient cabins, cottages, and RV sites. Although there is no on-site restaurant, there is a small store with various food, drink, snack options, bait, and tackle.  

It’s hard to go wrong when you embark on a vacation centered around bass fishing. Combining awesome bodies of water with incredible accommodations, food, boat rentals, and guide service, and you’ve got a winner of a trip planned.

As the old adage goes, “A bad day of fishing is better than the best day at work.”

However, a bad day of fishing will be the last thing on your mind. Visit one of our top 15 bass fishing vacation locations, and you’ll have a great stay full of amazing memories.

Jason Bradstreet

I’m Jason Bradstreet. I grew up fishing tournaments with my Dad who was a well-known Central Florida Bass Guide and tournament angler. I have been bass fishing for all of my life am passing the love on to my family. Now, I serve as a bass fishing coach and captain to my kids who fish tournaments in the Bass Nation circuit. Our family loves to fish. We research, practice together, and enjoy both recreational and tournament bass fishing as a family. We are excited to share what we’ve learned on this site!

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Taking a summer fishing trip? These south Florida guides are among the best in the nation

Summer is almost here, which means it’s time to hit the water. As the weather heats up and the days get longer, Florida’s waterways and beaches will be filled with more people boating, swimming, surfing and fishing.

And if you’re a Floridian planning a summer fishing trip, look no further than home, sweet home.

Fishingbooker, an online platform for booking fishing guides, just released its annual report on the best fishing guides in the country and Florida had the tenth largest share of high-rated fishing guides in the country. More than 15 south Florida fishing guides were recognized in the company’s yearly awards.

“Every April since 2015, FishingBooker, the world's largest platform connecting anglers and fishing guides, announces its yearly Angler's Choice Awards,” FishingBooker’s press release said. 

“This exclusive recognition acknowledges charter operators for their exceptional customer service, reliability, and quality of fishing trips.”

Here’s where Florida ranked on FishingBooker’s best states for fishing in 2024 and which south Florida fishing guides were recognized.

Which U.S. state has the best fishing?

“We ranked the states according to the share of winners compared to the number of captains listed on FishingBooker in that state, and this is the outcome,” the rankings list says.

Here’s FishingBooker’s list of the best states for fishing:

• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Mississippi
• Connecticut

Click here to keep reading FishingBooker’s top 30 rankings.

What are the best fishing charters in South Florida?

“Breaking it down by county, Miami-Dade County has four winners, Broward County has six winners, and Palm Beach County has seven winners,” FishingBooker’s press release said.

“When looking at the performance of all U.S. states, Florida came in as the tenth state, by highest share of Angler's Choice Award winning captains.”

Here’s FishingBooker’s list of the top fishing guides in Palm Beach County:

• Mike Szabo of Lake Ida Fishing Charters
• William Wood of Fish With a Pro
• James Fenn of Controlled Chaos Fishing Charters
• Dave Aagard of Building Up Sports Academy – Captain Dave
• Ricky Martes of FL Largemouth Charters
• Eden White of Captain Eden - Great White
• Rudy Neumann of Papa Bear's Fishing Charters 

Here’s FishingBooker’s list of the top fishing guides in Broward County:

• John Casselli of Ringmaster Charters
• Ryland Dickey of True Grit Sportfishing
• Michael Onega of Florida Adventure Outfitters
• J.J. Logan of Marlin my Darlin Sportfishing
• Anthony DiPilato of Never Enough Sport Fishing
• Matthew Schenk of All Good Charters

Here’s FishingBooker’s list of the top fishing guides in Miami-Dade County:

• Orlando “Orly” Muniz of Nomad Fishing Charters
• Rafael Mayans of Sea Cross VIP and Luxury Deep Sea Fishing
• Chad Raney of Old Hat Fishing Charters
• Jimmy Vee of Salty Habitz Fishing

15 Best Fishing Trips in the US You Can’t Miss

It is possible to catch some of the world’s best fishing trips in the US. We’ve produced a list of some of our best fishing vacation destinations, from Alaska to Hawaii. Each destination on our list of best fishing trips in the US has great fishing charters for anglers who want a stress-free vacation.

Best Locations for Fishing Trips

Taking time out of your hectic schedule now and then to spend a day on the lake doing what you love is a good idea if you enjoy fishing. You should always conduct some research before booking a fishing charter, especially if it is a private one.

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan Charter Fishing (one of the fishing charters)

It is also known as “King Salmon” in the case of Chinook salmon. These fish are Great Lake aristocracy, with their great hard-fighting action. However, rainbow trout aren’t the only sea trout that may be found in this wonderful fishery.

To begin with, there are massive Brown Trout /Lake Trout to contend with. On your Great Lakes species bucket list, these feisty fish are more than a worthy opponent. 

The salmon species are a great example of how freshwater fish can be just as exciting to catch as their saltwater counterparts. 

Chinook and Coho are the two types of salmon that may be found in this lake, and they usually make their first appearance in the spring. On the other hand, you can go fly fishing before the salmon fishing season begins in the early summer.

San Diego, California

H & M Landing (one of the fishing charters)

San Diego is a popular fishing destination in the United States. Take a private fishing charter out on one of the city’s seven ocean piers or go pier fishing on one of its many freshwater and saltwater fishing alternatives.

Fishing for yellowfin tuna, bass, and various gamefish while traveling around San Diego’s picturesque coastline is a terrific charter choice for anglers of all levels of expertise. It is also a famous destination for whale-watching trips from the Baja Peninsula to the Bering Strait. 

Pacific Gray Whales are frolicking during one of the world’s longest migrations, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to see these magnificent creatures. There are numerous inshore fishing in the world-famous San Diego.

Key West, Florida

Gulfstream Fishing (one of the fishing charters)

For traveling anglers, Key West is a known east coast fishing location. Hundreds of fish species live on the reefs and shipwrecks in the fishing spots.

Tour and shore fishing getaway is offered for all levels of skill, whether you want to go deep or fly and flat fishing in the seemingly endless shallow “flats.”

Improve your fishing package together with the guidance of the captain and crew on private fishing tours. You get to plan your sailing adventure with Laid Back Key West.

You may do it all with your private charter host, whether you are catching fish, snorkeling, sitting in the sun, or doing all of the above.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Long Time Comm’n Charters & Sportfishing (one of the fishing charters)

In the Chesapeake Bay, offshore fishing in Virginia Beach, fish are plentiful all year. There are four fishing piers in Virginia Beach and several half-day and full-day fishing cruises. 

For a family-friendly day of fishing for sharks, redfish, cobia, and other species, book a charter with Long Time Comm’n Charters & Sportfishing, a world-class fishing group.

Aquaman Sportfishing Excursions, Rudee Tours, and Knot Tell’n Charters are some of the other fishing charters in Virginia Beach that we recommend. 

You’ll have an entire album full of images of your catches when you return from your fishing trip.

Plymouth, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Captain John Boats (one of the fishing charters)

Plymouth, located on the historic and scenic Cape Cod peninsula, is one of the top fishing trips in the U.S. and offers a typical New England landscape to anglers. On one of Plymouth’s many fishing cruises, you can cast your line into the deep sea.  

Catch striped bass, tuna, bluefish, and the rare shark in the excellent fishing ocean (Cape Cod is famous for the film “Jaws,” though you’re unlikely to capture anything quite as fierce). 

With the help of expert fishing instructors, the crew, and the captain, you’ll find some of the best deep-sea fishing in the area on a charter with Deep Sea Fishing Plymouth.

Waikiki, Hawaii

Waikiki Dive Center (one of the fishing charters)

On the island of Oahu, Waikiki, a suburb deep in the Pacific, is home to some of the world’s most outstanding fishing vacations. A deep-sea fishing charter is available at the Waikiki Diving Center, where you can catch mahi-mahi, onu, tuna, and potentially even a Pacific blue marlin. 

An excellent trip on the Waikiki coastlines replete with a 20-minute shark cage dive that will bring you up close and personal with some sharp-toothed beauties, as well as a North Shore Shark Adventure cruise if you’re up for a thrill.

Miami/Miami Beach, Florida

The Charter Agency (one of the fishing charters)

Miami is teeming with sport fish due to its warm current and diversified habitat. You can be sure that fish will bite in the shallow flats or the deep waters offshore. 

Catch snapper, marlin, grouper, tuna, sailfish, and other fish. Consider planning an Everglades Airboat Safari if you’re not in a hurry to get back on land after fishing. 

Your super-fast airboat will take you through the mangroves while you spot artificial reefs, alligators, sea turtles, deer, and birds, all while being accompanied by an educational guide.

Lake Fork, TX

Lake Fork is located 65 miles east of Dallas in Texas’ Piney Woods region. The only reason you’re coming here is to catch some bass. Throughout your stay, you’ll be able to fish and eat largemouth and white bass.

Bass is the holy grail of freshwater fish, and Lake Fork is a destination for bass fishing enthusiasts. To diversify your trip, it’s a good idea to spend some time in Fort Worth, a city known for its cowboys.

Galveston, Texas

Reel Men Fishing Charters (one of the fishing charters)

In sunny Galveston, you may enjoy one of the best fishing expeditions in the South. Blacktip, bull, red snapper, croaker, drum, stingrays, and other freshwater and saltwater fish can be caught with your reel.

The private Reel Men Fishing Charters, one of several fishing charters in Galveston, allows you to choose between shark fishing or adventures.

After you’ve had your fill of fishing tours in Galveston, you might want to try a new water sport like surfing, windsurfing, or kitesurfing because it’s also home to some of the world’s best surfing.

Ketchikan, Alaska

Alaska King Fishing Charter (one of the fishing charters)

The southernmost point of Alaska’s Inside Passage is Ketchikan. One of the best fishing vacations is the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour, made famous by Deadliest Catch.

One of the sites in the country where you can catch fish is near the Mississippi River’s entrance in Venice. Bass, redfish, and speckled trout are examples of freshwater fish. Larger saltwater fish, such as marlin and sailfish, can also be found around Venice.

Venice has one of the country’s most unique cultural and topographical environments. It’s also convenient to New Orleans, which is a plus. You’ll be traveling 90 miles along the west bank of the Mississippi River after landing at Louis Armstrong International Airport.

Lake Champlain, NY, and V.T.

Anglers can capture various fish in this area, including large and smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and landlocked Atlantic salmon. The Lake Champlain Basin Program contains a list of species that reads like a bucket list for avid anglers.

This lake is located between New York’s Northeast and Vermont’s Northwestern borders. You can get to the East from I-87 in New York and the West from I-89 in Vermont.

Outdoor Expeditions USA, Holly Springs

Outdoor Expeditions USA offers fishing trips on some of North Carolina’s best lakes, and the company welcomes anglers of all ages and experience levels. Falls Lake, Jordan Lake, and Shearon Harris Lake are excellent bass fishing destinations.

San Francisco

San Francisco Fishing Charters has a good reputation for providing outstanding service and personal attention to every client. The Game Fish, the company’s boating adventure, has everything you’ll need in fishing gear for a day on the water for up to six anglers. 

An optimum fishing period for striped bass and sturgeon is between January and March, but you can visit all year round.

Mammoth Lakes, CA

This magnificent area in Central California, surrounded by the spectacular Sierra Nevada Mountains, offers incredible scenery, a variety of activities, and some of the greatest wild trout fishing on the West Coast.

The lakes of Placid are framed by snow-capped peaks. Ice fishing, mountain biking, hiking trails, and skiing are just a few of the activities available in Mammoth Lakes. It’s also a year-round site that’s easy to get to.

A ten-minute drive from downtown Mammoth Lakes, Mammoth Yosemite Airport welcomes commercial flights from LAX all year long (Los Angeles).

Experience Fishing Like No Other

The modern man’s favorite pastime is fishing, which is one of the most underrated. It’s a hobby that can be done in practically any area, requires very little equipment, and requires very little ability. 

It’s also a social activity that allows you to go to some of the country’s most isolated and beautiful places, and it’s well-balanced enough for a beginner to progress to more technical hobbies.

We hope our list of the best fishing trips in the US proves useful to you. Whatever your choice is, you’ll surely have a good time!

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