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Fishing

New Providence Island

The waters here are generally smooth and alive with many species of game fish, which is one of the reasons why the Bahamas has more than 20 fishing tournaments open to visitors every year. A favorite spot just west of Nassau is the Tongue of the Ocean, so called because it looks like that part of the body when viewed from the air. The channel stretches for 100 mi. For boat rental, parties of two to six will pay $300 or so for a half day, $600 for a full day.

Born Free Charters (242/393-4144) has three boats and guarantees a catch on full-day charters -- if you don't get a fish, you don't pay. Brown's Charters (242/324-2061) specializes in 24-hour shark fishing trips, as well as reef and deep-sea fishing. The Charter Boat Association (242/393-3739) has 15 boats available for fishing charters. Chubasco Charters (242/324-3474. www.chubascocharters.com) has two boats for sportfishing and shark-fishing charters. Nassau Yacht Haven (242/393-8173. www.nassauyachthaven.com) runs fishing charters out of its 150-slip marina.

Grand Bahama Island

Private boat charters for up to four people cost $300 and up for a half day and $350 and up for a full day. Bahamian law limits the catching of game fish to six dolphinfish, kingfish, or wahoo per person per day.

Capt. Phil & Mel's Bonefishing Guide Services (McLean's Town. 242/353-3960 or 877/613-2454. www.bahamasbonefishing.net) provides a colorful and expert foray into the specialized world of bonefishing. A whole day (eight hours) for up to two people will run you $400, transportation included; a half day costs $350.

Reef Tours Ltd. (Port Lucaya Marketplace. 242/373-5880) offers sportfishing for four to six people on custom boats. Equipment and bait are provided free. All vessels are licensed, inspected, and insured. Trips run from 8:30 to 12:30 and from 1 to 5, weather permitting ($100 per angler, $50 per spectator). Full-day trips are also available, as are bottom fishing excursions, glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling trips, and sailing-snorkeling cruises. Reservations are essential.