The Dominican Republic hosts several international billfish tournaments each year, including ESPN's Billfish Xtreme Tournament at Punta Cana Resort Club. Several world records for mammoth fish have been broken in the waters surrounding the country. Off the coast of La Romana, the 50-pound tackle world record for Atlantic blue marlin was set with an 850-pound catch.
Despite this, most fishing enthusiasts and vacationers to the Dominican Republic aren't aware that the country is one of the best hideouts for dozens of species of sought-after fish. For those who are not looking to become legendary anglers but would like to fight a marlin or reel-in a toothy barracuda, several charters are available throughout the country.
Not as popular among tourists but still a thrilling activity, is freshwater lake fishing. In a country known for its ocean waters, the Dominican Republic offers excellent fishing in crystal clear mountain streams and rivers. One of the best locations is Lake Hatillo near the remote town of Cotui. The lake is actually an attractive reservoir that holds large quantities of Lake Bass.
Popular fish species found in the Dominican Republic include Amberjack, Barracuda, Bonito, Cobia, Dorado (Mahi-Mahi), Espadons, Grouper, Jack, Kingfish, Porpoise, Redfish, Sailfish, Spearfish, Sea-Breams, Shark, Spanish Mackerel and Yellow Tail Snapper.
Certain types of fish make the Dominican Republic a port-of-call as they pass through on their migration journey to various parts of the Caribbean. At the North Coast, White Marlin is abundant May through August; Blue Marlin and Tuna thrive July and August; and Sailfish are numerous November through April. Wahoo, King Mackerel and Dorado can be found year-round.
At the southern side, White and Blue Marlin, Dolphin Fish and Barracuda are frequent visitors June through September. Sailfish and Wahoo can be found October through January.
Fishing Charters
Deep sea fishing arrangements may be made at most resorts throughout the DR. In addition, there are several charters that have fished these waters for decades and know which species are running when and where.
When securing the services of a captain and crew, visitors should be sure the charter is holds a license and make sure the boat has life preservers, safety equipment and a working radio. It is also advised that guests ask about the crew's experience and if they will keep hooks baited, check for crossed lines and help unhook catch.
Aqua Coconor
With charters out of Puerto Plata twice a day, this experienced crew hosts groups on either their 45-foot or 32-foot fishing yachts. The fees include roundtrip transportation, snacks and drinks, equipment and a guide. This charter is recommended for all levels of fishing enthusiasm.
Reservations: Contact Enrique Echavarria at (809) 586-4195
First Class Fishing
Based in Punta Cana, this charter company offers two four hour trips per day as well as eight hour trips. With 15 years of experience under their belt, the crew of captains and mates host guests on 42-foot or 33-foot fishing yachts which are all equipped with the latest technology including GPS, radar and fish finders. Excursions include transportation to and from the hotel, beverages and fishing gear.
Reservations: Contact Pedro Guerrero at (809) 867-0381 or support@firstclassfishing.com
www.firstclassfishing.com
Gone Fishing
This charter company has two trips each day out of Puerto Plata, Punta Cana and the Bavaro resorts. The crew will take enthusiasts out to the turquoise waters in search of blue and white marlin, mahi-mahi, wahoo or sailfish, depending on the season. Not into fishing but want to tag along? They offer a discounted companion rate for the curious.
Reservations: Contact Jack at (809) 552-6773 or reserve@puertoplatahot.com
www.puertoplatahot.com
Pelicano Sport
Offering daily trips into the deep sea from a variety of resorts, including Ocean Bavaro, LTI, Punta Cana Princess, Ocean Blue, Caribe Club Princess and Carabela, Pelicano Explorer caters to all levels of fishing enthusiasts. An introductory course taught by experienced instructors is available for those unfamiliar with deep-sea fishing. They promise to never have more people on board than lines, guaranteeing everyone has a chance to catch the big one.
Reservations: (809) 552-1720 / (809) 476-2326 or pelicanoexplorer@hotmail.com
www.pelicanosport.com