Oranjestad

Sportfishing fans love Aruba! While this statement is as clear as the Caribbean sky, there are many reasons why they do it. If you are dreaming about unspoiled deep water habitats, a beautifully scenic island, and pristine shores, the Caribbean fish are there for you. The legendary local hospitality extends far beyond those shores into the waters which are swarming with just outstanding fishing. 

Known For

The capital, Oranjestad, is what the story is all about. It is charming, compact, with warm dry weather and white-sand beaches. Head to the Eagle, Malmok, and Palm Beach for some tan and breathtaking views. Take a dip in the morning waters: diving and snorkeling in Aruba is widely considered to be some of the best in the Caribbean. Experience it in its  full glory on the water to make your stay in Aruba a little bit different.

If deep sea fishing appeals to you more than traipsing around the tourist routes, downtown Oranjestad is your place. The largest proportion of fishing is done along the Oranjestad shores. It seems like it was made specifically for deep water fishing. The coastline is very ledgy and defined by steep drop-offs. Head a few miles off and find the waters teeming with trophy Blue Marlin, which can be caught between just 2 and 12 miles out. The east coast has several records to its name. Not to mention a regular 1000+ lb Blue Marlin! The fishing is good year-round, but many deep sea fans prefer shooting at a grand slam in the fall, just when White Marlin and Sailfish move in. Whites are caught over edges and current changes.

Sport fishing lovers will just love Oranjestad. Atlantic game fish are abundant and large Pelagics are waiting to be caught. Sailfish can be found chasing bait balls on the south of the Island, away from the winds and waves. Bait balls can be found on the bank, along with small Mahi Mahi and False Albacore. When bottom-dwellers, such as Snapper and Grouper, are starting to bend the rod, you know the fishing begins. The Aruba fishing season always has something going for it: get ready for Wahoo, King Mackerel, Bonito, and Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna, adding them to a long list of potential catches. Most of the Aruba’s deep-sea fishing is done by the challenge of handline fishing. So if you want to fish like the locals, get ready for an intensive workout. And who knows, you might even pop into some Sharks in Aruba! Great White are occasional visitors to these seas and can provide an unforgettable workout on heavy tackle.

If you are not fascinated by the waves and want to avoid getting seasick, stay close to the shore. The shallow waters just a stone’s throw from the shore are hotspots for Red Snapper, Silk Snapper, Blackfin Snapper, Yellowtail Snapper and Grouper. Kingfish, Blue Runner, Amberjack, and Parrotfish along with Queen Triggerfish are there to top the list.

If you are a fly fishing enthusiast, the tropical paradise of Aruba offers exciting opportunities year round. The calm mangrove islands and flats are home to Snook, Tarpon, Jacks, Ladyfish, and Barracuda. You would love chasing Baby Tarpon, Snook, and Bonefish. Aruba doesn’t produce big numbers of Bonefish, but they are definitely worth fishing for. 

Rules & Regulations

No fishing license required for shore fishing. Charter captains are required to purchase a license, but not their clients. Spearfishing in Aruba is forbidden by law.

Types of Fishing

Deep sea fishing is what it is all about. Aruba is blessed with opportunities to start reeling in great catches just minutes from the shore. Blue and White Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna can fill your ice-chest in no time.

Flats fishing in Aruba is an excellent idea for catching a daily dose of Snook, Tarpon, Barracuda, and many more.

Shore fishing might also be a good option, especially with a local guide.

Balloon fishing is popular with locals. Tie a long handline to a balloon, release it to float on the water over the reef. Just when the hook gets to the deep water, you detach it from the balloon and pull it in. With the wind blowing away from the shore, the balloons are bobbing and dancing on the water.

Fly fishing for a Grand Slam can be pretty good but you will have to bring your own gear. Add a leader with steel tapper tippet to your checklist if you want to target Barracuda and flies for Bonefish.