Bluewater Fishing Trips, Lodges & Destinations

Explore world-class bluewater fishing trips, lodges, and destinations with knowledgeable local guides.

Yellow fin tuna being held by angler
  • All-Inclusive
  • Colombia, Pacific Region
  • From  $1,100 
  • nightly
  • Premium
  • All-Inclusive
  • The West Indies, The Bahamas
  • From  $1,495 
  • nightly

The Appeal of Bluewater Fishing

Bluewater fishing takes you far offshore—beyond reefs and drop-offs—into deep ocean territory where big fish roam. It’s a pursuit defined by speed, power, and endurance, targeting apex predators like tuna, marlin, and sailfish in some of the most challenging and rewarding environments.

Bluewater trips are all about the thrill of the hunt. You’re covering vast water in search of birds, baitballs, and current edges, with heavy gear and experienced crews that know how to find fish and manage the fight. Whether trolling, drifting, or casting poppers, every hookup could be a career fish.

While bluewater fishing is often boat-based, lodge-centered trips offer more than just convenience—they provide expert guides, premium tackle, and strategic access to prime offshore zones. These adventures focus on quality over quantity, often with a few high-stakes shots per day.

Top Bluewater Species

Yellowfin Tuna – Speed, stamina, and surface feeds

One of the most sought-after offshore targets. Found in warm waters worldwide—often near bait schools and current edges.

Bigeye Tuna – Deep runners and night feeders

Similar to yellowfin but with deeper runs and more nocturnal behavior. Often caught on jigs and chunk baits.

Marlin – Iconic apex predator of the blue

Explosive power and aerial displays make marlin the poster fish of offshore angling. Trolled or baited in deep water.

Sailfish – Speed and spectacle

Fast, aggressive, and visually stunning. Found in both Atlantic and Pacific waters—often in pods feeding on surface bait.

Mahi-Mahi – Fast-growing, hard-hitting pelagics

Brightly colored and aggressive, mahi-mahi are often found near floating debris and weed lines.

Wahoo – Razor-sharp and lightning fast

Hit lures at high speed and run hard. Targeted while trolling in clear blue water around structure and temperature breaks.

Swordfish

One of the most elusive and powerful fish in the sea. Often targeted deep during the day or near the surface at night—rare but legendary.

Where and When to Plan a Bluewater Fishing Trip

While bluewater fishing is possible around the world, FishingExplora focuses on high-quality lodge-based trips in select regions:

Bahamas – Mahi, tuna, and deep drop-offs

Year-round access to offshore species within striking distance of many islands. Best from April to September.

Colombia – Big game on the Pacific coast

From Bahía Solano to Nuquí, the Pacific coastline offers deep water close to shore. Peak season runs from January to May.

Techniques Used in Bluewater Fishing

  • Trolling – The most common method for covering ground and drawing strikes from marlin, tuna, and wahoo. Lures or rigged baits are pulled at speed behind the boat.
  • Live baiting – Deployed around FADs or bait schools for tuna, marlin, and sailfish. Requires precision, patience, and constant attention.
  • Jigging and popping – Used when fish are actively feeding. Heavy rods and vertical jigs or poppers provoke aggressive surface strikes from tuna and wahoo.
  • Drift fishing – Ideal when targeting swordfish or bigeye tuna at depth. Often paired with chunk bait and heavy fluorocarbon leaders.
  • Run-and-gun – Spotting surface activity (birds, bait, boils) and quickly repositioning to cast or troll through the strike zone.
  • Heavy tackle rigs – Bluewater gear includes 50–80 lb class rods, braided mainline, and top-end reels with high drag capacity.

Bluewater Fishing Lodges & Guided Trips

FishingExplora connects you directly with trusted bluewater fishing lodges in key offshore locations. These trips are designed for anglers chasing world-class pelagic species with the support of experienced guides, boats, and equipment. Whether it’s trolling for marlin in the Bahamas or casting for yellowfin off Colombia, these are serious adventures with real rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between big game and bluewater fishing?

While often used interchangeably, bluewater fishing typically refers to offshore fishing in deep ocean waters beyond reefs and shelves. “Big game” fishing is more general, focusing on the pursuit of large species. Bluewater has a more refined, location-specific connotation tied to pelagic targets.

What rod and reel setup is best for bluewater trolling?

A 30–50 lb class trolling setup is standard, with a sturdy conventional reel, high drag capacity, and quality roller guides. For marlin or big tuna, step up to 80 lb class rods with matching reels.

Do I need special licenses for offshore fishing?

Yes—most countries require a saltwater or offshore fishing license, and sometimes a separate permit for targeting billfish. Lodges typically handle these logistics or include them in package rates.

When is the best time to plan a bluewater fishing trip?

Peak seasons vary by species and region. Tuna and mahi are often best in spring and summer. Billfish like marlin and sailfish peak from mid-summer through early fall. Check local migration patterns and water temps.

How do guides locate fish offshore?

Guides rely on a combination of GPS data, sonar, temperature breaks, bird activity, and long-term experience. Many areas also have FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices) that attract pelagic species for more reliable action.