Due to the diversity of species found in its waters, Bocas del Toro has become famous as one of the main destinations for sport fishing. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the wonderful fishing activity that happens here throughout the year.


The endless channels and Caribbean reefs are teeming with different fish species. As you depart to the sea, it is very likely that you will find species such as yellowfin tuna, blackfin tuna, bigeye tuna, snapper, catfish, barracuda, Guaju fish, grouper and mackerel, among others. Sharks are often accidentally caught, but are then fortunately released back into the ocean. It is very common for the fishing guide to offer you the possibility to clean your catch and cook it up with a tasty Caribbean touch.

Due to the diversity of species found in its waters, Bocas del Toro has become famous as one of the main destinations for sport fishing. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the wonderful fishing activity that happens here throughout the year.

In Bocas del Toro you can fish throughout the year, but please be mindful about the seasons for certain species. Generally, the best times of the sportfishing year are from September to the beginning of November, and from the end of February to May. These seasons are often influenced by weather conditions, which can vary slightly from year to year. July is usually the rainiest month while December is usually the stormiest month with more intense rain, wind and waves.

To find a fishing tour guide, you will have several options. There are local guides as well as bilingual expatriates who have resided on the island for a long time. They have a lot of experience and knowledge to take you to those secret places that you are looking for so that you can catch the best fish.

You can choose between deep-sea fishing and fishing near the coast. The former is ideal for lovers of navigation and adventure, as well as for the most experienced fishermen and fisherwomen. The latter option is an excellent recommendation for those new to the sportfishing community and for children. Many of the tours include drinks, snacks and lunch. Our front desk team will be pleased to help you with references and recommendations for hiring a sportfishing company or an independent boat tour so you can be sure to receive a fulfilling experience.

For those who enjoy spearfishing, the island has spots for both beginners and experienced divers. There are specialized guides that help you find the places that match your abilities, and they offer a wide variety of equipment so you can enjoy your experience with everything you need.

Sportfishing excursions in Bocas del Toro generally take the whole day so it is recommended to get an early start at sunrise. For those who prefer to sleep in a little longer, you can start the adventure around noontime and spend the morning doing other activities such as snorkeling and surfing, or simply dedicating yourself to exploring the incredible beaches of the archipelago. To complement the sportfishing tour, we recommend stopping at some of the on-the-water bars and restaurants. By the time sunset and dinner approach, you will be ready to enjoy the main course…your afternoon’s catch!

The incredible landscapes and the exotic fish and fauna make Bocas del Toro an unforgettable tropical destination for your next sportfishing vacation.

We hope to see you soon in Bocas. If you have any questions or need more information, write to us at info@diversparadise.com and we will gladly answer your query.

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Written by Gabriela Anderson

English edition by Maria Mc Donough