Fishing in Barbados

Fishing is a year-round activity in Barbados, but its prime time is January through April, when game fish are in season. Whether you're a serious deep-sea fisher looking for marlin, sailfish, tuna, and other billfish or if you prefer angling in calm coastal waters where wahoo, barracuda, and other small fish reside, you can choose from a variety of half- or full-day charter trips departing from the Careenage in Bridgetown. Expect to pay $175 per person (maximum of four) for a shared charter; for a private charter, expect to pay $600 per boat for a four-hour half-day or $1,000 per boat for an eight-hour full-day charter. Spectators are welcome for $50 per person.

Billfisher II (246/431-0741), a 40-foot Pacemaker, accommodates up to six guests with three fishing chairs and five rods. Captain Winston ("The Colonel") White has been fishing these waters since 1975. Full-day charters include a full lunch and guaranteed fish (or a 25% refund); all trips include drinks and transportation to and from the boat.

Blue Jay (246/429-2326. www.bluemarlinbarbados.com) is a spacious, fully equipped, 45-foot Sport Fisherman with a crew that knows the water's denizens—blue marlin, sailfish, barracuda, and kingfish. Four to six people can be accommodated—it's the only charter boat on the island with four chairs. Most fishing is done by trolling. Drinks, snacks, bait, tackle, and transfers are provided.

Cannon II (246/424-6107), a 42-foot Hatteras Sport Fisherman, has three chairs and five rods, and accommodates six passengers; drinks and snacks are complimentary, and lunch is served on full-day charters.