Bonaire: Big Game Fishing Charter & Snorkeling with Gear

Summary

Fish for wahoo or snorkel Bonaire’s coast with local captain

You’ll join Captain Arjen on Bonaire’s blue water for big game fishing or coastal snorkeling—gear included either way. Spot dolphins or turtles as you wait for a bite, listen to stories from your guide, and maybe end up caring more about the moments than the catch itself.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if you’d actually catch anything on a big game fishing charter in Bonaire? I did. Turns out, it’s not just about the fish. We met Captain Arjen at the dock — he’s Dutch but feels half-local after decades here. He handed me a rod that felt heavier than expected, and before I could ask what to do next, he was already showing us how to set the lures. The boat smelled like salt and sunscreen, and there was this low hum from the engine that sort of faded into the background once we got moving.

The sea was clear enough to see shadows darting below — Arjen pointed out a turtle gliding by (I almost missed it because I was busy untangling my line). He told us stories about wahoo and barracuda that sounded half like fish tales but you could tell he knew his stuff. At one point, dolphins actually swam alongside us for a minute or two. I didn’t expect that part at all — everyone just went quiet except for someone’s laugh echoing off the water.

I tried snorkeling too — they had all the gear ready, even for someone who forgot their mask (me). Water was cooler than I thought; it woke me up fast. Saw schools of little fish flickering around coral close to shore. My kid kept waving at me through his snorkel; it’s still one of those images stuck in my head. We didn’t catch a giant tuna but honestly, no one seemed to care much by then. Sometimes you go for big game fishing in Bonaire and end up remembering something else entirely.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Fishing and snorkeling in Bonaire

• Depart on fishing charter
• Catch wahoo, tuna, barracuda
• Observe dolphins and sea turtles
• Snorkel near Bonaire coast
• Return from tour

Top questions

What kind of fish can you catch on this Bonaire fishing charter?

You can try for wahoo, tuna, and barracuda during the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear is included for guests.

Who is the captain or guide on these trips?

The trips are led by Captain Arjen, known as The Fishing Dutchman.

Are these trips suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, they’re suitable for all skill levels including families and beginners.

Can you see wildlife besides fish?

You might spot dolphins or large sea turtles passing by the boat.

Is fishing equipment included in the price?

All fishing equipment—from rods to lures—is provided on board.

Are there options besides fishing during the trip?

You can also choose to snorkel or take a coastal boat tour instead of fishing.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted during these trips.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary fishing rods and lures plus snorkeling equipment if you want it; fees and taxes are covered too so you just show up at the dock ready for whatever comes—whether that’s chasing big game fish or floating above coral with your family nearby.