Tom’s Catch Boat Fishing Trips

The bluefin trevally (Caranx melampygus) can be caught in the tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. They belong to the Jack family, just like the giant trevally and the horse mackerel. Easily recognisable by their blue fins, these trevallies can grow up to 1 m long and weigh up to 40 kg.

The great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), often referred to as barracuda, is a long predator that can be found in tropical and subtropical waters where they like to patroll mangroves, reefs and drop-offs. Record barracuda can grow to 1,5m and weigh over 45kg (100lb+).

The sooty grunter (Hephaestus fuliginosus) is a fresh water fish from northern Australia. The species inhabits the rivers of Queensland and the Norhtern Territory where they feed on plants, roots, crustacians and small fish. They can grow up to 54 centimetres (21 in) long and weigh over 6 kg (14 lb).

The sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus) is a round gray silvery fish with dark vertical bars on the side. They are found in coastal waters along the western Atlantic, from Nova Scotia to Brazil. Southwest Florida is one of the best places to catch this species. Sheepshead can grow to 76 cm (30 in). 

Gurnard - from the Triglidae family - are also known as sea robins due to their large pectoral fins which mimic bird’s wings in appearance. Sea robins can be caught by dropping a variety of baits and lures to the seafloor. There are three different types of gurnard - red, grey and tub - which vary in shape, size and colour but rarely exceed 40cm in length.

Tuna fishing is a fishing technique that brings together all the ways to fish this incredible predator. You can fish via trolling, spinning or jigging among others. Tuna is a fierce fighter, so adequate material is required to face this magnificent fighter.

Trolling is a fishing technique where one or more fishing lines, baited with lures or natural bait, are drawn behind a moving boat. Trolling can be done both in-shore and off-shore.

The trolling speed depends on the type of bait and the fish species. Where tuna and marlin like a speed of 6 to 10 knots, other species such as dentex or seabass should be targeted with a trolling speed of 3-4 knots maximum.

Pelagic Sharpshooting

Shark fishing is a sport that combines fisherman against one of the oldest animals on the planet. It is an exciting form of fishing when productive and is usually done, but not always, by chumming the water close to your fishing grounds and fishing with an alive or dead natural bait.

Marlin fishing brings together all the ways to target this amazing predator. Marlin are mostly caught trolling artificials or dead bait behind the boat at a speed ranging from 6 tot 10 knots. This fish is a fighting machine so make sure you have adequate fishing tackle on board.