Big Marlin Charters – "Blue Sky" Open 36 ft. 

So, Blue Sky was having issues the day before we were supposed to head out . I received a email asking if I would be willing to go on a smaller boat 32’ Cana .. I was offered the lower price with an extra hour. I had no idea on the boat or what they have been catching or reviews on this boat. I would give the mate and captain a 10 out of 10 on the Cana .. boat was big enough for 6 and it was only myself and my Girlfriend. They treated us like kings and queens.. they put us on fish and the mate never stopped changing things up to get us on the fish . Great trip

While this was not the first time for my husband and I, it was for our youngest. Well, him and my middle son didn’t fare so well. We ended up having to head back. The captain and crew were understanding and we will be booking again for those who don’t get sea sick next time we are in Punta Cana!

We had a wonderful day on the water with the Miguels! Capt. Miguel put us on Mahi and Barracuda and we landed several of each. We hooked up with a White Marlin also but couldn't get it landed... it happens. Mate Miguel worked his tail off ensuring the baits were fresh, removing seaweed, and keeping everything in position for a strike! If we get to Punta Cana again, I'd definitely fish with these guys again!

Our 6-hour fishing trip in Punta Cana was absolutely brilliant from start to finish. Pick-up from our hotel was bang on time, and the crew worked their socks off the entire day to give us the best experience possible. We managed to catch two Mahi Mahi, and despite missing two other takes (one of which was apparently a sailfish — a real shame!), the trip was still fantastic. The crew filleted the larger Mahi Mahi for us, and we took it back to our hotel where it was cooked to perfection. The smaller fish was released to fight another day, which we really appreciated. The crew were incredibly professional, friendly, and clearly passionate about what they do. I honestly couldn’t fault the trip in any way — it was perfect. Highly recommended!

One thing every angler should understand before booking any charter: It’s fishing, not catching. Luck must be on your side, and you should never underestimate the ocean. The team gave me clear safety advice the before the trip. I grew up spending almost every weekend on a boat, and I’m very thankful I took their recommendations seriously. The Atlantic Ocean is a very different beast compared to European waters — strong, unpredictable, and nothing to take lightly. Without the motion sickness tablets, I would have definitely struggled. Both the captain and the first mate are named Miguel, and I can confidently say this: Your chances of a successful day out with these two are as high as they can realistically get. They know their hotspots, they know the fish, and they know exactly what they’re doing. Fishing is my biggest hobby, and I’m very familiar with how things work. Still, their experience, coordination, and timing are absolutely top-notch. They don’t miss a single bite, and they’re instantly ready the moment a fish hooks up. A real angler knows when to step back and let the pros handle things. If you can’t trust the crew and think you know better — honestly, you should go out on your own. But if you trust in the team’s skills and follow their lead, you will be rewarded. I certainly was: 8 mahi-mahi and 2 barracuda on a single 6-hour private trip. I deliberately booked a private trip because it’s simply not comparable to shared tours. My original booking on the Gone Dog had to be cancelled due to mechanical issues, which — again — highlights their professionalism. Safety always comes first, and that is exactly how it should be. No fish is worth risking your life for. I am convinced that some other companies would have ignored the issue and gone out anyway, just for the money. Big Marlin Charters did the right thing, and I respect that immensely. The rescheduled trip on the Blue Sky was excellent, and the crew made sure everything was perfect. I can wholeheartedly recommend Big Marlin Charters to anyone. If I return to Punta Cana, I will absolutely book another trip — and who knows, maybe next time I’ll get the chance to hook the dream of every angler: a blue marlin. Until then, I wish both Miguels all the best and a fantastic start into the new season. In Germany we say: “Petri Heil!” — good luck and tight lines! 🎣✨