Our fishing trip in Cartagena, Colombia was absolutely incredible from start to finish. We ended up catching 26 yellowfin tuna, and it turned into one of the best fishing experiences we’ve ever had. The captain was outstanding — extremely knowledgeable, hardworking, and knew exactly where to put us on the fish. He kept the energy high all day and made sure everyone had an amazing time.

Not only was the fishing unreal, but the entire experience felt professional, safe, and well organized. The captain truly made the whole trip and worked nonstop to make sure we were successful. If you’re looking for an unforgettable fishing trip in Cartagena, this is the crew you want to book with. We’ll definitely be coming back!

Do not hesitate to book your fishing trip with Captain Arnold.  From
picking us up in the boat at an easy to find and not crowded pier to return at end of day, everything was professional and timely.  You could not find a better captain for his knowledge of fishing and for interacting with us throughout the trip.  We have taken many deep sea fishing trips in the past and his will stay with us as one of the best.  We booked the 4 hour tour, and it takes about an hour to get out and back, which left us 2 hours to fish and We caught 6 Tuna, which were fun for us to reel in. The boat is comfortable with A/C if you need to cool off and his fishing gear is top quality. You will not regret booking with Captain Arnold.

This was an incredible experience. First off, our captain Albert has seen it all. He’s Dutch, speaks five languages, and has 20 years of experience in these Caribbean waters, super informative and keeps the energy up the whole time.
This is the newest charter in the city, and honestly we only found out about them because our original charter, Get Tight, tried to change the terms last minute after being booked for almost 6 months. These guys had just opened for business and completely saved the trip.
This is a real yacht, all amenities included (water, food, soda, beer, etc) and the A/C was freezing, which was clutch in this hot Cartagena heat. Shoutout to Oscar, he was a blast and super helpful the whole trip.

We were out on an 8 hour voyage, trolling with 6 rods going at once, which made it nonstop action. I did get a little seasick but it wasn’t really a problem since they had medicine on board and we still made a quick rally and caught an insane barracuda.

We had such an amazing day! Temperature was great. There was some waves, but all good. A friend got sea sick, but it’s part of the game! We would sincerely thanks Arnold and Miguel! Great experience captain with many stories! Fishing is a game of patience, but not a dull moment with Arnold! We caught a Yellowfin Tuna!!! Had a few bits too and did snorkling close to Rosario island. Great day!! Worth every dollar. Will book again next time in Cartagena with a complete day this time!

Epic Family Fishing on Reel Deal: Luhrs 35 & Captain Arnold in Cartagena
Arrival & First Impressions
Our family’s Cartagena fishing adventure kicked off at Marina de Cartagena on a sunny 2025 morning. Reel Deal’s Luhrs 35 gleamed—35ft of luxury with twin Yanmar diesels, fighting chairs, AC cabin, and kid-sized vests. Captain Arnold, a bearded Dutch pro, greeted us with charm. My kids (10yo Mia, 7yo Max) lit up as he showed them around. Safety gear was impeccable: EPIRB, VHF, first-aid. We departed 7AM for Rosario Islands, targeting trolled bonito, blackfin tuna, barracuda in 200-400ft depths. Perfect for our family of four + Arnold & mate Javier.
The Luhrs 35: Built for Family Thrills
This seaworthy legend sliced waves effortlessly, keeping seasickness at bay. Yanmar diesels cruised at 25kts efficiently (top 35kts). Raymarine electronics shone—CHIRP sonar found bait balls, radar dodged squalls. Spacious salon had fridge stocked with cervezas, fruit, empanadas. Livewell teemed with mullet; 20 rod holders, bait freezer (200lbs), T-top outriggers, GoPro mount. Kid-proof decks, real bathroom. At $1200 full day (gear/bait/lunch incl.), unbeatable value vs. catamarans.
Captain Arnold: The Perfect Guide
15 years in these waters, Arnold blended grit and warmth. He spotted upwellings for trolling runs, rigged Mia’s Penn with pink lures (“princess special”), taught Max knots with chocolate. Patient, multilingual cheers during hookups. Javier filleted for ceviche. Safety drills were fun; post-trip WhatsApp pics shared. He’s the dream fishing uncle.
Non-Stop Action
8:30AM: Lines out, trolling for bonito, blackfin tuna, barracuda. Mia’s 15lb bonito skyrocketed first—bow spray, gaff, cheers! Max battled a toothy 5lb barracuda bottom-rigged. Lunch: fresh ceviche, plantains. Bird chases yielded double blackfin tuna (20lbs ea.). Climax: my 40lb barracuda slashed the spreader bar—45min in fighting chair, kids filming strikes. Total: 18 kept (limits respected), releases. Pure adrenaline.
Family Memories & Cartagena Magic
Bonded over ecosystems (coral, overfishing lessons). No seasickness, comfy ride. Sunset return at 4PM, fish iced. Castillo Grande backdrop magical.
Practical Tips
• Book: WhatsApp/site; 7AM-4PM, $1200/4pax (+$150 extra).
• Bring: SPF50, hats, Dramamine, swimsuits, tip cash (20%).
• Gear: Penn/Shimano, 50lb braid included; fillets provided.
• Best: Dec-May for bonito/tuna/barracuda.
• Family: Kid rigs available; pack picky-eater snacks.
• Eco: Catch-release select species, Colombian regs.
Verdict: 12/10 Legend
Reel Deal’s Luhrs 35 + Arnold = unforgettable. Book now!