Whether you enjoy casting your line from a shoreline, pier, or boat, one thing is certain; It’s these moments when you’re at your happiest. If that sounds like you, you’re probably one of the many millions of recreational anglers in the world. 

Angling is one of the oldest fishing methods, dating back more than 2 millennia. In that time, those in the know have identified some places as better than others for a spot of fishing. We decided to share this knowledge, by unveiling the world’s best fishing secrets: 10 international hotspots for anglers.

Key West, Florida, USA

One of the best destinations for a fishing trip is Florida. That’s why fishing charters are so popular here. Sometimes you won’t even need to bring any equipment with you. 

Key West is undoubtedly one of the angling hotspots, with a wide variety of fish species on offer, including groupon, sailfish, and snapper. One of the reasons that Key West is an angler’s paradise, is the abundance of wrecks and reefs nearby that attract a multitude of fish. 

The Bahamas

The Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands. That’s an awful lot of great fishing spots to choose from, but the best we’ve heard of are at Bimini, Exuma, Green Turtle Cay, and New Providence.

Whether you have your eye on big game fish like tuna or billfish or are just looking to catch some snappers and groupon, you’ll find them all here. Here’s our tip, head there in the spring to catch marlin!

Donegal, Ireland

Donegal Bay, bordered by Counties Donegal, Leitrim, and Sligo in Ireland is known as one of the best deep-sea fishing destinations in Europe. We don’t doubt that they deserve this accolade for a moment, as it offers a surprising amount of fish species to hook. 

From the pier in the western corner of Donegal Bay, you’ll have your pick of flounder, dabs, dogfish, coalfish, and mackerel. Be sure to do some sightseeing while you’re there. Half of Ireland’s plants and animal species are found in County Donegal.  

Montauk, New York, USA

The US has more top angling hotspots than you can imagine, but one of the best is at Montauk. Every species of fish migrating in and out of the Long Island Sound passes this way twice a year.  Little wonder then that Momntauk has become so popular with anglers. 

Montauk’s striped bass are legendary, as are the giant summer flounder and Marlin. For the best boat fishing head to the spots known as The Elbow and The Frisbee. For shore fishing, head just south of the lighthouse to the Browns.

French Riviera

Some of the best sailing destinations in the French Riviera also offer good angling opportunities. You’ll enjoy perfect angling weather from April to November, as the blue waters teem with sea life. 

Sea fishing in the Riviera is a bucket list adventure for amateur and professional angles alike. Cannes is most well known for its film festival, but it’s also particularly popular with anyone hoping to hook a swordfish or tuna. Nice is another angling hotspot worth visiting. 

Belize

The fact that Belize boasts clear waters and the world’s second-largest barrier reef accounts for much of its status amongst divers. Yet it’s attracted its fair share of anglers, too. 

Located on the northeastern coast of Central America between Mexico and Guatemala, the coastline of Belize provides fishing flats that attract countless anglers. Here you’ll find plenty of bonefish, permit, and tarpon.

Nova Scotia, Canada

About 2.5% of Nova Scotia’s waters are protected.  This is important because studies have shown that fish biodiversity is higher in protected areas. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy some fishing here with your friends. However, you may be limited to a certain number or type of fish. 

Nova Scotia has always been synonymous with sport fishing. Little wonder why, if one considers the abundance of large bluefin tuna in her waters. Be sure to check out Ballantyne’s Cove, where world-record-sized fish have been caught.

Langara Island

Have you set your sights on salmon? You need to make your way to Langara Island. Langara Island is British Columbia, Canada’s northernmost island. Millions of salmon pass this way on their annual migration, which is why it’s such a prized angler’s destination.

The other bonus here is that the island offers the security of a spot for fishing in calmer waters in its protected bays, a must when the weather takes a turn. 

Tioman, South China Sea

Tioman Island offers a variety of fishing options from nearby reefs to deep sea fishing offshore. Highlights among all sports fishermen in the area are the angling spots at Juara Beach, Mukut, Genting, and Salang Bay.

Big game anglers love the area for its abundance of sailfish, wahoo, mahi-mahi, Spanish mackerel, and marlin. Or you can stick to the reefs and catch yourself some groupers and snappers.

Patagonia, Chile

Does the idea of a South American vacation with beautiful scenery sound good to you? Once you hear that you’ll have your pick of Pacific and Atlantic salmon, resident browns, steelhead, rainbows, and brook trout we’re sure you’ll start packing your bags immediately.

Patagonia is technically part of Chile and Argentina. You’ll find good fishing spots in both, but the consensus is that Chile is just that little bit better for anglers.