Broome, Western Australia
Although known more widely for pearls than sailfish, in angling circles, this largest city on Australia's northwest coast offers reliable odds for memorable Indian Ocean sailfish action during the season, beginning sometime in May and running into November.
Why You Should Go: Great light-tackle action; many skippers play the bait-and-switch game, so sight-casting opportunities abound. No worries about competition on the grounds here. It's also a gateway to the amazing Kimberley in Australia's far Northwest with breathtaking scenery and barramundi fishing. Also check out multiday trips to the incredible Rowley Shoals, 160 miles offshore.
But... Expect a long run of 20 to 35 miles over shallow waters typical to reach sailfish grounds. You'll find good numbers of fish but of moderate size, running 30 to 70 pounds. And you'll drop a couple thousand to get here, logging 30 to 40 hours of travel time (about 10,000 miles) each way.
Contact: Capt. Chris Nisbet at Broome Billfish Charters, www.broomebillfish.com.
