2 of 4

Write now Article Tools

Whether you're looking to go deep-sea fishing off the coast of Puerto Rico, where depths can reach over one thousand feet just one and one-half miles from shore; inshore fishing around the lagoons; or fly fishing in the back country, the beautiful blue waters of Puerto Rico await you.

DEEP-SEA FISHING:

There are many experienced charters available in Puerto Rico that are fully-equipped to take you on any type of fishing expedition. You can fish for Blue Marlin, which can be caught all year long but peak in July, August and October. They can strike as much as five times a day, especially during the week of the full moon. In the small game season - October through April - you can catch Wahoo that can weigh as much as 40 pounds, Kingfish, Sailfish, or White Marlin that can weigh as much as 95 pounds. If you like Mahi-Mahi, you can plan a day of trolling with outriggers and catch great-eating fish that weigh as much as 25 pounds.

The 35-40 foot charter boats are fully equipped with all the fishing equipment you'll need, including GPS systems and fish finding sonar. There are half-day, three-quarter day, and full-day charters available for around $350-$550 for a half day to $800-$1000 for a full day, depending on the number of people fishing. All you need to bring is suntan lotion, hat, camera and sunglasses. They'll provide everything else, including the water and soda, but if you want food or beer, you have to bring it.

IN-SHORE FISHING:

Tarpon is the big thing in Puerto Rico. During their feeding frenzy from October to May, you can catch tarpon on a fly, live bait or a lure, and get as many as 25 strikes a day. Most charter captains can take you to the fish, but it's up to you to hook them; and if you know tarpon, you know that's not an easy thing to do, especially when the average weight is 30 pounds and some can weigh as much as 60-120 pounds. You can also fish for Snook, Snapper, Grouper and King Mackerel. In Puerto Rico, they practice Tag and Release and hold the World Record for King Mackerel at 93 pounds.

There are half-day, three-quarter and full day charters available, or you can combine tarpon fishing with deep-sea fishing for about the same prices as deep-sea fishing.

Light tackle fishing is also available in the biggest estuary on the island - Torrecilla and San Juan lagoons.

FRESH WATER FISHING:

There are no natural lakes in Puerto Rico, but there are 20 man-made lakes, which are actually reservoirs formed by damming the rivers. They are all part of the Federal fish stocking program. Numerous fishing clubs located in the interior mountain area cater to the most popular type of fishing: fly fishing. You can catch Peacock Bass ("Tucunare") and Largemouth Bass ("Lobina"), which are the most popular because they put up a good fight. There are limits to how many you can catch, but when you've reached your quota, you can fish for Sunfish, Catfish and Tilapia.

You won't have a difficult time finding a good charter; there are numerous locations on the island and you can find their location and phone number at Charter Net. It's always a good idea to check out some websites and read testimonials first; don't rely on the concierge at your hotel to give you unbiased information.

Learn more about this author, Sharon Lea Hill.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Guide to fishing in Puerto Rico?
We want to hear your view. Write now!