La Guaira Bank Billfishing
Venezuela
Fishing program
While seasonal variations host peak months for individual billfish species, tag studies and fishing reports show that a healthy number of each occupy these waters year-round. Grand slams occur regularly, and the chance of taking a record-sized fish is always just a hook-set away. Dolphin, wahoo and tuna also thrive in these plankton-rich Caribbean waters at the continental margin of South America. Our select fleet includes top-notch 35-foot to 45-foot fishing yachts. Each is equipped with state-of-the-art electronics and the horsepower to get you to the fishing banks in less than an hour. Charters include Penn International reels seated on custom-built rods with a range of line sizes from 12-50 pound test. Our captains and mates are experienced professionals who pride themselves in finding the fish and delivering VIP service. Daytime highs average in the mid-90's. The sun is intense at this latitude, especially on the ocean where water reflection doubles the risk of sunburn. Strong sunscreen (preferably waterproof) and lightweight reflective clothing are a must. Seas are often rough, so Dramamine or Equalibrium Patches can help reduce sea-sickness.
Trip duration
4 days & 3 nights / 2 days fishing
Package prices (2007 SEASON RATES)
4 days & 3 nights/2 days fishing
from $895 (4 angler per boat) per person, plus international airfare to Caracas.
Single suplemment $100 per night
Extra day rate
2 anglers per boat $580 double occupancy,
3 anglers per boat $485 double occupancy
4 anglers per boat $ 420 double occupancy
Extra night hotel $100 per person double/$200 single
Deposit amount
40 % to book. May be paid with credit card or money order. Final payments are typically due 60 days prior to departure.
Package includes
Airport assistance and all land transfers
Accommodations in deluxe Hotel Olé Caribe***** by the airport (double occupancy)
Fishing on first-class boats, all tackle
Beer, soft drinks and lunch on fishing days
Captain & Crew.
All taxes & permits.
Not included
International airfare, airport departure tax, meals and drinks at hotel, tips, gifts or items of a personal nature
Options
Depending on time of year and space availability, you may be able to combine billfishing with one of our other fishing or adventure trips in Venezuela.
Season
The combination of trade winds and coincident currents cause the upwelling of nutrients from January through June and attract huge schools of baitfish that, in turn, are prey for great numbers of billfish, particularly Blue Marlin which peak from February through May. White Marlin and Sailfish abound during May to November, peaking from August through October.
Available dates
Please call us to confirm space availability or to request specific dates
Getting there
Your adventure begins with arrival at Caracas International Airport. After clearing customs, you will be met by our Osprey Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel, about 20 minutes away. A shuttle service will transport you each day to the marina where your fishing adventure awaits.
Capacity
50 anglers per week
Accommodations
Anglers typically stay at the Hotel Ole Caribe*****. This hotel is the convenient to Caracas International Airport and the marina where we charter our fishing boats.
Meals
Meals are not included in the package, except lunch while fishing. A variety of dining options are available at the hotel and some fine restaurants nearby.
Non-fishing activities
Sightseeing, shopping, swimming or relaxing by pool.
Sample outline itinerary
(Subject to revision. Detailed itineraries are prepared on confirmation of reservation)
Day 1: Arrive in Caracas. Airport reception and transfer to Hotel Olé Caribe***** for overnight.
Days 2-3: Breakfast on own. Transfer to the marina. Full day fishing for blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish or other gamefish. Evening at leisure. Overnight at Hotel Olé Caribe*****.
Day 4: Transfer to international airport for your departure flight back home.
Entry
A valid passport with at least six months validity is required for U.S. and EU citizens. Tourist cards are provided on your international flight to Venezuela. Passengers assume all responsibility for obtaining valid passports.
Health
Be sure to take sunscreen and motion sickness tablets if you are susceptible to sea-sickness. Pepto-Bismol or Immodium may help incidental traveller's diarrhea. Note: health precautions are offered here as an informational service only. See your doctor or health clinic.
Language
Spanish. Hotel staff and boat crew speak limited English.
Weather
Daytime temperatures typically range from 80-100 degrees during the day, but typically cool down to the 70s in the evening. Heavy tropical downpours can occur even during the "dry season" so be sure to pack a rainsuit. Humidity in the tropics can play havoc with cameras or other electronic devices.
Trip insurance
We recommend you purchase trip cancellation insurance to cover any losses should you have to cancel to due to unforeseen illness or other emergency. Certain restrictions do apply. Premium rates are typically about $65 per $1,000 of coverage, and usually include some benefits for lost baggage, trip interruption, and emergency evacuation.
Packing
Our recommended packing list and other briefing materials will be furnished on receipt of your trip deposit and reservation form. |
