With New Year’s Eve just around the corner, you would think that professional anglers will hang their fishing hooks and finally enjoy the holiday season. But why do so when there are plenty of luxurious destinations waiting to be discovered?
Fishing is not only a sport but it is also a culinary experience that you should enjoy. In some countries it is even a tradition to eat fish while entering the new year. Because you can choose from so many recipes and spices you can satisfy even the most pretentious taste buds.
For the right money, you could be fishing year-round in some of the most exclusive locations in the world, enjoying all the comfort and glamour while catching anything from bass and trout to mahi-mahi, tuna, and even sharks.
So, what are you waiting for? Go find some comfortable bibs for ice fishing and prepare for an exclusive adventure in one of these locations in the upcoming year.
1. Sitka Sound, Alaska
You don’t have to sail too far from home as you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more in Alaska. The temperatures are certainly not friendly during the winter months but you have the opportunity to enjoy some breathtaking sceneries all-year-round.
Alaskan wilderness is the perfect location to recharge your batteries and practice your fishing skills but if you want to do it in style, Sitka Sound is the right place to go. It is one of those mesmerizing locations where saltwater and freshwater fishing are equally good.
Spread all over the coast and the neighboring islands you will find luxurious lodges complete with everything you would want from watching the Aurora Borealis (when the time allows it) to airport transfers, state-of-the-art cuisine, relaxing massages, and other ways to spend a good time. In the morning, you can go fishing for rockfish, salmon, lingcod or halibut and also keep an eye out for whales.
When it comes to eating salmon you have so many options and recipes. The easiest one is to just grill it, but pay attention to not overcook it as it’s the kind of fish that continues to cook even after you took it off the grill.
2. Sicily, Italy
If you’re looking for a secluded paradise to spend a few days in the summer while still being able to enjoy arguably the most delicious cuisine in the world, head to Italy’s most famous island, Sicily.
The island is home to six World Heritage sites and the locals are more welcoming than what you might have heard or seen in gangster movies! Moreover, you will get to enjoy a luxurious fishing experience in a land blessed by gods.
Almost everything screams luxury and opulence on this golden island, from the medieval streets of Palermo and their charming architecture to the wine trails and exclusive restaurants. Sicily is also known for its luxury yachting opportunities, with floating palaces that will take you all around the island to find the best fishing spots.
Regardless of your fishing skills and experience, prepare to catch anything from barracuda to groupers, bluefin tuna, amberjack, mackerel or mahi-mahi.
3. St. Barts, The Caribbean Islands
This exotic and exclusive destination makes for the perfect honeymoon, bachelor party or family getaway. It is packed with secluded, white-sanded beaches, five-star restaurants, and luxury villas. The people are welcoming, and you will get plenty of time for yourself if you visit the island outside of Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Keep in mind that there are only 25 hotels on the island and most of them don’t offer more than 15 rooms, so you should book in advance. However, all your worries will fade away once you set foot in this tropical paradise.
St. Barts offers a decent number of fishing charters to meet all requirements and has a long-time tradition of being a paradise for fishermen. You can also hire one of the many local fishing guides to show you around the best fishing spots or the beautiful reefs.
If shore fishing is not glamorous enough for your standards, you can always hire a de-luxe sailboat to take you to the deeper waters with plenty of opportunities for sipping fine champagne, scuba diving, snorkeling, and enjoying one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world. There are various fish species you can catch, from wahoo and tuna to barracuda, mahi-mahi, and blue marlin.