Page 15 - AHATA

A13
Saturday 24 auguSt 2019

“There’s a whole host of species on the bite”

By Joris Zantvoort
ORANJESTAD— Still wondering where to go fishing this
summer? You’re in luck! After you see what Aruba’s got in
store, your summer fishing getaway will be one step closer
to perfection. With temperatures stuck at 91 °F, summer in
Aruba has plenty of heat to offer. This place boasts a lot
more than good weather, mind you, and fishing’s pretty
much on top of the list!

In August, there’s a whole host of species on the bite. The
reefs are full of big Mahi Mahi and King Mackerel. Wahoo
are always good in these parts, and the local guides are
experts in catching them. Further offshore, fishing for Blue
and White Marlin starts heating up. Be sure to book a full
day if you want a chance to catch one of these monsters.

If you’d like to try some fly fishing, however, you’ve chosen Joris Zantvoort is
the right time to do it. The flats are teeming with Snook Dutch and a writer at
and baby Tarpon – all you have to do is catch them. Fisherbooker.com. He
monthly
a
publishes
There are a number of experienced fly fishing guides on fishing report for Aruba
the island, so if you were looking to improve your skills, Today. The company
these guys will be happy to teach you.q works with 17 captains
in Aruba that help
him create this report
Captain of the Month containing information
like: What is currently
in the water? What
Captain Marcelino aboard Sunrise Charters has had can you catch? Also
great success fishing the reefs recently. Mahi Mahi amazing pictures are
and Albacore Tuna seem to be regulars on the Cap- being shared and part
tain’s boat. He’s even caught a few Barracuda, all of the column shows the
on a half day outing! Captain of the Month.

A true local expert, Marcelino has been fishing since
the age of 12. Coming from a long line of fishermen,
the Captain enjoys showing newbies how to fish.
Marcelino’s also an accomplished angling competi-
tor, with all-tackle fishing tournament wins under his
belt.

Marcelino fishes from his Puntra Bravo (Downeast),
originally built in 2004. Powered by a 285HP Volvo
Pent engine this pristine boat has a maximum cruis-
ing speed of 18 knots. You’ll find all the amenities
you need on board. There’s a fighting chair, and en-
closed toilet, an ice box and three bunk beds if you
want to rest.

You’ll have all the gear you’ll need on board. For lon-
ger trips, the Captain will prepare snacks and drinks
for you, as well. The crew will let you keep a third of
the catch, which they will clean and fillet for you.
Make sure to ask the Captain for a few restaurant
recommendations. Cooking your catch in an Aru-
ban restaurant is the perfect way to end your angling
adventure!