Whether you’re a hard-core angler looking for a fresh fishing hole or a world traveler searching for a relaxing day in a foreign environment, there are plenty of international fishing options to explore. Certainly the Oregon streams offer world-class locations to pull salmon and trout. And of course, the sheepshead of the Gulf Coast rivals any on Earth. But, there’s element of mystery and exploration added to your already exciting day on the water when you’re in a distant country.
Enjoy European history during the week and loch and canal fishing during the weekends. Or, try your hand in the Asian port cities of Shanghai and Hong Kong after exploring their famous gardens and mountains. With a little planning and research, your fishing experience will only add to the incredible stories of your journey. Narrowing down your preferred fishing location from every possible destination in the world can be a bit tricky.
Perhaps, first targeting interesting activities outside of fishing would be the proper route to follow. But, no matter where you end up, there’s sure to be a prime lake or bay nearby to cast your line into. So, make sure you have the best spinning reels, rods, and equipment on the market, and then hit one of these leading destinations.
1. East Cape, Baja, Mexico
Who doesn’t want to catch a marlin? If you’re in Mexico, make sure you don’t miss a chance to snatch one of the most exotic and beautiful species in the world. Ideally, you’ll want to target the summer months for the best chances. Set yourself up on a nice trolling rig and be prepared to reel in a 1,000-pound beauty. Located on a peninsula off the west coast of Mexico, Baja is a prime location for fishing, relaxing, and enjoying that famous resort life. With the glassy waters and comfortable temperature, it’s hard to find a better place to throw your line in.
2. Iztapa, Guatemala
Pacific Sailfish pepper the waters in this Central American destination. Again, trolling during the summer months will yield the best results when looking to bag a new trophy fish.
3. Cairns, Australia
Still got the itch to catch marlin? This time, try the Australian hot bed between Cairns and Lizard Island. The black marlin here are renowned for their size and fight. If you’re willing to engage in a battle of nature for a couple of hours, this is the spot for you. And, bonus, take in the Great Barrier Reef and the natural beauty of the rainforest while you are in the majestic state of Queensland.
4. Amazon Basin, Brazil
If you haven’t considered fishing in the Amazon Basin yet, what are you waiting for? For best results target July or August — just know that the piranha will be hungry too.
5. Halong Bay, Vietnam
So you’ve caught your trout, bass, and snappers. Heck, maybe you’ve even explored the areas above and landed a marlin or two. It’s time to step up — to squid. Yep, in the Halong Bay in Vietnam you can reel in your own cephalopod. And, even better news, they are great for the eating when you get back on the mainland. If you’re set on catching more than one in a night, make sure you don’t miss the fishing season near the end of the year. You won’t be disappointed.
6. Rio Grande, Argentina
Perhaps you’re more interested in the South American culture. Argentina is an incredible country for tourism with a fishing industry perfect for some vacation trophy catching.
7. Pi-as Bay, Panama
Catch yourself a massive tuna and party it up just 35 miles from the Columbian border. The fishing must be good, as more world records have been set here than anywhere else on earth.
8. Chalk Streams, England
If you’re angling to fly fish, this is the destination for you. Oh, and maybe take a detour to London on the way.
9. Lough Currane, Ireland
If you’re fishing for salmon you should be fishing in Lough Currane. There’s enough water here to keep you occupied for an entire year, should you choose to vacation for that long. And, as with the rest of the spots on this list, you won’t be disappointed by the culture and experience.