Fishing

Not far offshore from Pigeon-Bouillante, in Basse-Terre, is a bounty of big-game fish such as bonito, dolphinfish, captain fish, barracuda, kingfish, and tuna. You can also thrill to the challenge of the big billfish such as marlin and swordfish. Anglers have been known to come back with as many as three blue marlins in a single day. For Ernest Hemingway wannabes, this is it. To reap this harvest, you'll need to charter one of the high-tech sportfishing machines with flying bridges, competent skippers, and mates. The price is $430 to $600 a day, with lunch and drinks included. The boats can accommodate up to six passengers.

Captain Tony. Like father, like son: Tony Burel has officially taken over the sportfishing boat that he and his dad, Michel, worked for years. It's outfitted to go into combat with the big-game fish, and he has hauled many a billfish aboard. It has the latest generation of electronics and is considered the most commodious sport fisherman on the island. This Burel has 10 fishing years to his credit, five as a guide. Not only does he know where to find blue marlin but yellow-fin tuna, wahoo—“what you like.” This reliable big-fishing charter outfit, which charges by the person instead of by the full-boat charter, also allows nonfishers to come at a lower rate and can usually pick anglers up at their hotel for an additional fee. The skipper will be happy to take your picture with your catch of the day. And if you are not into jigging or chumming, check the website for snorkeling adventures and other excursions. Les Galbas, Ste-Anne, Grande-Terre, 97100. 0690/55–21–35; captaintonyb.com. From €160.