To fish in the sea or in the fresh waters of this reserve is simply magnificent… the dream paradise of all angler!

During April and May as well as in October, the Tarpon (known as the Silver Kings of the Atlantic) arrive from the sea and enter through the rivers into the lagoons and canals of the area. These giants of up to 200 pounds and more, are usually fished in the coastal waters or river mouths using heavy hooks for "jigging" or by means of the "trolling" method. In the river mouths, it is possible to catch large Tripletails and Jack Crevelle is abundant in the sea and in the interior waters all year round. A smaller variety of Snook called Calba is abundant during the same season as the Snook as well as in November and December. In deeper coastal waters, it is possible to catch the swift and powerful "KingFish" (Atlantic King Mackerel), a great sports trophy as well as an exquisite gourmet dish.

In the interior fresh waters (lagoons, canals and estuaries), native strange and bellicose species proliferate year round. These include Rainbow Bass, Garfish, the Machaca - a great acrobat and fighter - an infinite number of Crappies or Blue Gills, a diverse variety of Snapper and very large Grouper or Jewfish. To make the fishing more sporting, it is advised to use light equipment and lines except when hoping to catch large pieces.

For those who find it exciting to catch a Sawfish or a large "heavyweight" Grouper, it is imperative to use heavy equipment with a strong line and a sturdy hook loaded with live bait in areas where these fish are generally found… and of course catch them with a long, resistant gaff... This will really get the adrenaline flowing!

During the off-season, it is common to catch species of sport fish (Tarpons and Snooks) in the fresh waters of the area.

FOR THE BENEFIT OF NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION, WE RECOMMEND THE SPORTING PRACTICE OF "CATCH AND RELEASE" FOR NONEDIBLE SPECIES

TESTIMONIALS

BOB STEARNS:
Field & Streams, August 1997

"The southeast of Nicaragua is remote and beautiful; the mouth of the San Juan (river) holds snook and tarpon in abundance, and the numerous upriver creeks yield tropical freshwater exotics. Today it's a landmark for a remarkable fishing destination."