Big-game fishing, offshore sport fishing or offshore game fishing are all one and the same, catching lean fish such as tuna and marlin in the open sea. Popular both as a sport and for recreation, there are regular annual tournaments arranged or offshore fishing charters to experience this exciting thrilling sport. International anglers book well in advance to enter competitions in big game fishing travelling all over the world to destinations as far ranging as Florida, California and Hawaii, the eastern coastline of Australia, Thailand, Tobago, the Caribbean, Mexico and South America. The idea of big game fishing is to reel the fish in once it is properly hooked on the line. This can be pretty intimidating, as the fish, especially if it is a big one, will be pulling away from the boat and you need to keep the line steady, using all your strength to keep your grip. The appeal to many is not only the thrill of fighting these huge fish, but the difference between the tranquillity of being out in the ocean, surrounded by the seas and then the sudden adrenaline rush kicking in as you experience a catch.



Boats used for offshore game fishing have to have sufficient power, seaworthiness, speed, strength and scope to convey crew and equipment some distance out to sea. There is a large quantity of essential equipment in big game fishing and the boat has to have the capability to stay steady when fighting fish, in extreme cases these fish can weigh anything up to 400-500 kilograms. Boats also have to be able to safely carry crew and others back to land in what can be adverse weather and sea conditions. Depending on where and when you decide to go big game fishing will be reflected in the size and power of the boat used. Organised fishing trips can last anything from a morning’s fishing close to the coastline to a week’s deep sea fishing trip. Most captains and native fishing crews will have spent most of their lives on fishing boats and made their livings from it and so have obtained a vast knowledge of the local seas, including where to find the big fish, and all the know-how of the fishing gear.



If you are interested in big game fishing, experience is not necessary. The captain and crew should have years of experience, explain everything to you and provide all the equipment needed. Many people catch large fish their first time big game fishing so it is never too late to learn and can be great fun! Imagine the thrill the very first time you experience reeling in a huge blue shark or some other remarkable fish. Reputable game fishing charters operate a catch and release programme, the most popular is the Billfish Foundation where billfish are tagged and set free again, rather than gaffed and killed, in order to protect the species. This also creates a bond between groups of anglers and fishers worldwide who have a common goal, and lessons can be learnt with regard to migration patterns and the rate at which these fish grow.



If you fancy having a battle with some of the world’s most exciting game fish check out the Internet for details on destinations and plan your trip today.