San Juan Fishing

Fishing in San Juan

For a country surrounded by the rich waters of the Caribbean, it's no big surprise that fishing is one of the most popular sports in Puerto Rico. The capital, San Juan, has a resort and beach area and is one of the most significant seaports in the region.

Deep-sea fishing is the primary style in San Juan although tarpon and snook fishing have also been gaining popularity. The abundance of blue and white marlin, Allison tuna, sailfish, wahoo, mackerel, and tarpon has made the Puerto Rican waters a favorite among fishing enthusiasts. About 30 world fishing records so far have been made in the Puerto Rico region.

Fishermen who have their own equipment may try their luck at various lakes in Puerto Rico such as Dos Bocas in Utuado and Guajataca in Quebradillas. For those who are looking for deep sea adventures though, there are a lot of marine charters in San Juan that provide guided fishing tours, deep sea fishing, tarpon fishing, and fly fishing.

It takes only about 30 minutes to reach deep waters. The famed Blue Marlin can be found mostly in the northern part of the island called the Blue Marlin Alley. Shallow waters such as lagoons and bays are also good fishing grounds for other types of fish. Most species of fish are abundant throughout the year but tarpon fishing is best done during the winter season.

There are also man-made lakes in Puerto Rico that have a valuable stock of Tilapia, Largemouth Bass, and Catfish. Most marine charters in San Juan and in the rest of the country practice the catch-and-release system so the best anglers can do is to have a picture taken with their prized catch.

Benitez Fishing Charters is one of the more well-known marine charters in San Juan. The captain has a 45-foot deluxe Hatteras named Sea Born and offers half-day, six-hour, and whole-day fishing tours. A group of up to six people can avail of a half-day excursion for $490, six-hour tour for $650, and a full-day trip for $850, inclusive of equipment and beverages.

Another marine charter in San Juan is the Caribbean Outfitters led by Captain Omar Orraca. The fishing boat is a 35-foot Bertram that is outfitted with reels, riggers, rods, and tackles for deep sea and tarpon fishing. A half-day trip (four hours) costs $500 for six people, a six-hour excursion costs $700, and a whole-day trip is $1,000. The rates are inclusive of tackle, beverages, and the services of the captain and mate. Caribbean Outfitters also offer a combo trip for $950. This consists of three hours of tarpon fishing and six hours of deep sea excursion.