The Dominican Republic has more than 1,000 miles of coastline, which afford numerous opportunities for sport fishing. The waters around the Republic are home to several species of game fish, including swordfish, marlin, sailfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, barracuda and mackerel.
The Dominican Republic hosts a number of big game fishing tournaments each year. One of the largest is the International Cap Cana Billfish Shootout, which takes place in late May or early June. This is a three-day catch and release tournament that moved to the Dominican Republic after 15 years in Argentina. Entry fees do not include transportation, and if you aren't bringing your own boat, you'll need to charter a boat locally. International Billfish Tournaments, which sponsors the event, provides a list of local charter companies.
International Billfish Tournaments
P.O. Box 960656
Miami, FL 33296-0656
305-213-5521
intlbillfishtourns.com
If tournament fishing isn't your style, look into one of the charter boat companies. FreeStyle Catamarans, along the North Coast, offers a "Gone Fishing" package in Punta Cano or Puerto Plata, which includes a four-hour tour, snacks, drinks and sandwiches, and high quality fishing equipment. Groups of up to 12 people may charter an entire boat for half a day, or you can join a group of new friends on one of their twice-daily scheduled departures. Non-fishing participants are also welcome on board, at a reduced price.
Freestyle Catamarans
809-586-1239
freestylecatamarans.com
