Situated in the southern Caribbean Sea, some 18 miles off the coast of Venezuela, the island of Aruba is a magical destination for fishing excursions..
(Photo: Sunrise Charters N.V / Courtesy FishingBooker)
Awash with trophy-sized pelagics, including the Blue Marlin, Dorado and Wahoo, Kingfish, Sailfish, Bonito and Tuna, Aruba is a veritable mecca for angling enthusiasts. Whether it’s inshore fishing or venturing further out into the vast Atlantic ocean for deep sea opportunities, there’s a dream catch to be had for every fishing desire. Here are 5 of the best Aruba fishing charters currently available.
4-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Trip
Available with either an early morning or afternoon departure, this half-day trip involves fishing for species such as Barracuda, Tuna, Mahi Mahi and more in the local deep waters. You’ll be fishing aboard “Caroline,” a comfortable 31-foot boat whose hull is well-equipped to tackle Aruba’s choppy waters. The boat also has ample shade cover, seating and an enclosed toilet, along with everything you need for a fun fishing adventure, including rods, reels, and terminal tackle. The crew are also on hand to clean and fillet your catch after the trip if you wish. From $500 per group (up to 5 people).
6-Hour Daytime Swordfishing
(Photo: Aruba Bound Charters / Courtesy FishingBooker)
Head offshore in search of swordfish on this 6-hour sportfishing adventure. In the company of your captain and his daughter – the second-ranking captain – you’ll focus on targeting swordfish as well as other pelagics such as Wahoo, King Mackerel, Billfish, Tuna, and even Warsaw Grouper. The vessel you’ll be fishing from is a 27-foot Triton centre console with enough room for 6 guests, and fishing equipment provided for everybody. After the trip, the captain can prepare your share of the catch for you to bring back to the resort, house, or any number of restaurants that are willing to cook for your group. Departure times are flexible and can be discussed with your crew after booking. From $1,223 per group (up to 3 people).
Half-Day Trip – Snorkeling
Combine sportfishing with snorkelling in the clear and crisp waters surrounding Aruba on this half-day excursion. With a start time of between 6 and 8am, you’ll hop aboard a custom-built 40-foot offshore sport fisherman that can hold 6 anglers and offers a full-head toilet, as well as a full suite of electronics to help you find your fish with ease. During the trip, you’ll go offshore fishing utilising heavy tackle fishing as well as trolling, as you prowl for prestigious species such as Blue Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Albacore Tuna, Great Barracuda and Mahi Mahi. There’ll also be a stop-off for leisurely snorkelling, with all equipment provided, along with complimentary sodas and water. From $400 per group (up to 6 people).
Half-Day Trip – Sunset Fishing
(Photo: The Hooker Charters / Courtesy FishingBooker)
Head out into the waters of Aruba near sundown and enjoy reel-screaming action as you witness a gorgeous sunset. Various Snappers, Groupers, Barracuda, Amberjack, Grunts, Seabream, and other species can be targeted on this 3-hour trip aboard your 31-foot Blackfin yacht, designed and built according to local fishing traditions, and perfectly suited to the waters and species targeted around Aruba. The vessel accommodates up to 11 guests on board. You can also add on time for snorkelling for a small additional fee. From $400 per group (up to 6 people).
Full-Day Trip
If you’ve got the time and budget for a full day out at sea, this trip could be for you. Aboard a clean and comfortable 31-feet Bertram sport fisherman fully rigged for big game tournaments, you’ll either head out to the big blue or remain in calmer waters, depending on your preference. For deep-sea fishing, you’ll head toward the rougher ocean and aim for Barracuda, Tuna and Wahoo along the coast or, move more seaward where Mahi Mahi and Marlin await, depending on the season and weather conditions. Otherwise, you’ll stay inside the calm mangrove inlet waters where Barracuda and other types of fish are in abundance. All equipment is provided, including top of the range rods, reels, tackle and lures, as well as free snacks, drinks, and a fish cleaning and processing service at the end. From $800 per group (up to 4 people).