TOP PLACES FOR FISHING IN 2025
Attention, anglers! Whether you’re chasing trophy fish in deep waters or enjoying a relaxing day casting a line along pristine coasts, the world is brimming with incredible fishing destinations. We’ve rounded up the top places for fishing in 2025. And our #1 pick? The unparalleled waters of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos of course!
1. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos – A Fishing Paradise
At the top of our list is the breathtaking Providenciales (Provo) in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Known for its picture-perfect beaches and azure waters, Provo is also one of the best fishing destinations in the world. We might be bias, but we think it is the #1 best.
Why Providenciales?
Anglers here enjoy incredible opportunities for deep-sea fishing, targeting wahoo, tuna, and marlin just a few miles offshore. Prefer fishing closer to shore? The island’s flats are world-famous for bonefishing, while the vibrant reefs teem with snapper, grouper, and other reef fish.
At Grand Slam Fishing Charters, we offer everything from action-packed deep-sea adventures to laid-back bottom fishing trips, to family-friendly snorkeling cruises. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, our experienced captains and luxurious boats—including our newest addition, Serendipity—ensure an unforgettable day on the water.
2. Islamorada, Florida – The Sport Fishing Capital of the World
Nicknamed the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, Islamorada in the Florida Keys is a must-visit for anglers. The waters here are teeming with tarpon, bonefish, snook, and permit in the flats, while the deeper waters offer sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna.
Why Islamorada?
Islamorada offers a unique combination of inshore and offshore fishing, making it an angler’s dream. The shallow flats are ideal for catching tarpon, bonefish, permit, and snook, while the deep waters just a short boat ride away are teeming with mahi-mahi, sailfish, tuna, and wahoo. The area’s proximity to the Gulf Stream ensures year-round access to some of the best sport fishing in the world.
3. Maui, Hawaii – Tropical Fishing Bliss
Maui combines stunning scenery with exceptional fishing opportunities. The waters off this Hawaiian island are home to blue marlin, ahi (yellowfin tuna), mahi-mahi, and ono (wahoo). Plus, with mild weather year-round, Maui is a paradise for anglers at any time of year.
Why Maui?
The waters surrounding Maui are teeming with a variety of prized catches, including blue marlin, ahi (yellowfin tuna), mahi-mahi, ono (wahoo), and skipjack tuna. The island’s location in the Pacific ensures year-round fishing, with peak seasons for different species spread throughout the year.
What sets Maui apart is its variety of fishing experiences. Deep-sea fishing charters take anglers to the offshore waters where pelagic species thrive, while inshore fishing offers opportunities to catch trevally and snapper closer to shore. For those seeking a unique adventure, Maui also offers opportunities for bottom fishing and night fishing. Plus, who doesn’t want to go to a fabulous luau?!
4. Outer Banks, North Carolina – Bluefin Central
The Outer Banks (OBX) is a premier fishing destination on the East Coast. The area is famous for its bluefin tuna runs during the winter months, as well as year-round opportunities to catch red drum, flounder, and king mackerel. The Outer Banks’ combination of inshore and offshore fishing makes it a versatile choice for anglers.
Why Outer Banks?
The Outer Banks is renowned for its legendary bluefin tuna runs during the winter months, attracting anglers seeking the thrill of reeling in one of the ocean’s most powerful fish. Inshore waters teem with red drum (the state fish of North Carolina), speckled trout, flounder, and striped bass, making it perfect for light-tackle and fly-fishing enthusiasts. The region’s fishing-friendly atmosphere, coupled with stunning coastal views and charming small towns, makes the Outer Banks a destination that’s as relaxing as it is exciting for anglers.
5. Key West, Florida – Endless Fishing Adventures
Key West is a favorite destination for anglers who love variety. Whether you’re reeling in tarpon along the flats or heading offshore to target mahi-mahi, tuna, and sailfish, Key West offers endless fishing adventures. Plus, the island’s laid-back vibe and vibrant nightlife make it perfect for a full vacation.
Why Key West?
Key West is especially famous for its tarpon fishing, with peak season running from late spring to early summer. The iconic “Silver King” puts up a fight that attracts seasoned anglers from across the globe.
Beyond the fishing, Key West offers a lively atmosphere, with historic charm, fresh seafood, and endless activities. After a day on the water, anglers can explore Duval Street, visit Ernest Hemingway’s home, or relax with a classic Key lime pie while recounting their fishing adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, Key West delivers an unforgettable fishing experience.
6. Bimini, Bahamas – Big Game Fishing Haven
Just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, Bimini is the Bahamas’ big game fishing capital. Its deep waters are prime territory for marlin, sailfish, tuna, and wahoo. The short distance from the U.S. makes it an ideal spot for a quick getaway with world-class fishing.
Why Bimini?
Bimini is renowned for its proximity to deep waters, where prized catches like blue marlin, sailfish, and wahoo thrive. Its legendary fishing history includes hosting figures like Ernest Hemingway, who frequently fished these waters and immortalized its allure in his works. For anglers looking to chase records, Bimini is a top spot for swordfish, tuna, and dorado (mahi-mahi).
Beyond the fishing, Bimini boasts a relaxed Bahamian charm, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving, as well as luxury resorts for unwinding after a day on the water. For U.S. anglers, its close proximity makes it an easy getaway to experience world-class fishing without venturing too far from home.
7. Destin, Florida – The Luckiest Fishing Village
Nicknamed the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, Destin is a gem on Florida’s Emerald Coast. It offers incredible opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing, with popular catches including snapper, grouper, amberjack, and cobia. Destin’s family-friendly vibe makes it an excellent choice for group fishing trips.
Why Destin?
Destin’s prime location on the Gulf of Mexico offers year-round fishing opportunities, with easy access to both inshore and deep-sea waters. Anglers flock here for the chance to catch prized species such as red snapper, grouper, amberjack, and triggerfish in its nearshore reefs and wrecks. Offshore, you can find mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, and blue marlin. Destin’s annual red snapper season is especially legendary, drawing fishing enthusiasts from all over.
Destin also offers unique fishing events, such as the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo and the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic, which attract anglers from around the world. Beyond fishing, Destin is celebrated for its lively harbor, fresh Gulf-to-table seafood, and breathtaking sunsets over the water. Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to the sport, Destin delivers an unforgettable fishing getaway.
8. Puerto Rico – Angler’s Paradise
Puerto Rico offers a blend of deep-sea and inshore fishing opportunities, making it a top Caribbean destination for anglers. The island’s waters are teeming with marlin, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and tarpon. Best of all, U.S. travelers don’t need a passport to visit!
Why Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s unique location in the Caribbean makes it a hotspot for a variety of fishing experiences. Offshore, the Puerto Rico Trench—the deepest part of the Atlantic Ocean—is just a short boat ride away and is home to blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo. The summer months bring peak marlin season, making Puerto Rico one of the top destinations for big-game fishing enthusiasts.
In addition to its exceptional fishing, Puerto Rico offers a rich array of activities. After a day on the water, anglers can explore the historic streets of Old San Juan, hike through El Yunque National Forest, or indulge in delicious Puerto Rican cuisine like mofongo and fresh seafood. With its mix of adventure, culture, and accessibility, Puerto Rico is a top pick for anglers seeking both exceptional fishing and a vibrant island getaway.
9. San Diego, California – West Coast Action
San Diego is a haven for saltwater fishing on the West Coast. The region’s legendary long-range fishing trips target yellowtail, bluefin tuna, and dorado. San Diego also offers year-round fishing, with prime seasons for different species spread throughout the calendar.
Why San Diego?
San Diego’s strategic location along the Pacific Ocean offers an unparalleled variety of fishing experiences. Inshore, anglers can target halibut, rockfish, calico bass, and yellowfin croaker, making it a great spot for light-tackle and beginner-friendly fishing. The nearby kelp beds provide excellent opportunities to catch white seabass and barracuda. Anglers can enjoy the city’s world-class seafood, explore its vibrant harbor, or unwind at famous beaches like La Jolla and Coronado.
10. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands – Caribbean Deep-Sea Fishing
The waters around St. Thomas are some of the best in the Caribbean for deep-sea fishing. Anglers flock here for a chance to catch blue marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and wahoo. With its warm waters and vibrant marine life, St. Thomas offers an unbeatable Caribbean fishing experience.
Why St. Thomas?
The island is particularly famous for its annual tournament, the St. Thomas International Marlin Tournament, which attracts anglers from around the world to compete for prized catches. Inshore, anglers can target species like tarpon, snook, and bonefish, often found in the shallow waters near the island’s stunning beaches and reefs.
Book Your 2025 Fishing Adventure Today!
From the crystal-clear waters of Providenciales to the vibrant fishing hubs of Florida and Hawaii, these top places for fishing in 2025 are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. If you’re ready to experience the fishing trip of a lifetime, make Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, your #1 destination.
At Grand Slam Fishing Charters, we’re passionate about helping anglers create unforgettable memories. Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’re chasing that next big catch, our team is here to make your fishing dreams come true. Tight lines and happy fishing!