Nova Scotia
Catch and release giant bluefin in the Gulf of St. Lawrence while learning from expert instructors
SEP 13 - SEP 17, 2023
This trip is full but you can still join us on an Expedition in 2024
OVERVIEW
- Nova Scotia holds the IGFA all-tackle world record for bluefin tuna, weighing in at 1,496 pounds
- Ballantyne’s Cove, Nova Scotia, is home to the world’s largest bluefin tuna
- Anglers will be catching and releasing giant bluefins aboard seaworthy, comfortable downeast-style vessels
- Experience four days of world-class tuna fishing with on-the-water instruction
- Stay at cozy seaside cottages only steps from Nova Scotia’s idyllic waters
- Nonanglers enjoy a day tour to Prince Edward Island or Cape Breton
- Package includes lodging, fishing, instruction, meals, tips and airport transfers
ITINERARY
Anglers arrive at Halifax Stanfield International Airport and will be transported to Ballantyne’s Cove when you’ll be staying. Enjoy a welcome reception and dinner hosted by Sport Fishing Expeditions at a restaurant in nearby Antigonish.
You’ll be picked up at your cottage at 4:30 a.m. and transported to the marina. There is bagged breakfast and lunch every day, and hot coffee and other drinks on the boat. Each day, the overall goal remains the same: catch big tuna, learn, and have a great time. The IGFA world record bluefin was caught only three miles from Ballantyne’s Cove, and most days fishing takes place less than 12 miles from the marina. Boats are back at the marina in time to relax and freshen up before dinner.
Celebrate your fourth and final day of fishing with a group dinner at the famous Brownstone in Antigonish.
After breakfast in your cottage, you’ll be picked up at 7 a.m. for the return trip to Halifax for the flight home.
FISHING OVERVIEW
Nova Scotia has been considered one of the world’s best sport-fishing destinations since the days of Ernest Hemingway. The fertile waters surrounding Nova Scotia are known for both the number and size of bluefin tuna they produce, with Ballantyne’s Cove being home to the 1,496-pound world record. It’s just a short steam from port into the hottest bluefin action in the world.
Captains here employ a variety of methods to get the area’s giants to bite. Depending on conditions, they might chunk or troll. Sport Fishing Expedition’s knowledgeable captains provide on-the-water instruction in a variety of techniques.
Since bluefin tuna are a large, hard-fighting pelagic fish, many of the techniques, procedures and gear are the same as for any large billfish species. As part of your preparation and instruction, anglers will learn about the various options for rods, reels, line, and hooks, as well as the fighting chair and harness. You’ll also learn knot-tying, baiting the hook, proper drag settings and deck management. When the big one is on, everyone will understand the dynamics at play and how to work together for a successful release. Your captain will provide guidance on what IGFA rules require in order to secure a record should that be your desire.
Come fish with our expert captains aboard their seaworthy and comfortable downeast-style boats. Stay at cozy seaside cottages mere steps from idyllic Gulf of St. Lawrence waters. Enjoy the hospitality of Canada’s easternmost province.
Learn more about bluefin fishing in Nova Scotia:
THE FLEET
Anglers will be fishing off seaworthy downeast-style vessels built to fish the waters off Nova Scotia comfortably. Each boat is fully outfitted with the latest electronics and tackle capable of defeating some of the biggest fish in the sea.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Nova Scotia has all the trappings of a seafaring town, featuring picturesque views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Anglers and their guests will stay in cozy seaside cottages. These quaint retreats offer accommodations for up to four anglers, with all the comforts of home. Each offers a full kitchen for those who would like to prepare their own meals.
Port is just a short drive from your cottage. Sport Fishing Expeditions timed this trip to take advantage of peak bluefin season in Nova Scotia.
PRICES & DATES
Sep 13 - SEP 17, 2023
Limited to 16 anglers-
5 DAYS
-
EXPERT INSTRUCTORS
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ALL INCLUSIVE
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Charter boats and tips
- Accommodations
- All meals and beverages
- 1-year subscription to Salt Water Sportsman
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Airline transportation to the destination
Sport Fishing Expeditions are priced as all-inclusive packages with all meals, charter boats and tips, accommodations, and airport transfers. Airfare is not included.
A 50 percent deposit must accompany each registration. The full payment must be paid 30 days in advance of your scheduled expedition.
Guests are welcome at select Sport Fishing Expedition destinations. Guest fee includes breakfast and dinner, accommodations, and airport transfers. Please contact us for more information.
Repeat anglers, active-duty military and veterans qualify for special discounts. Please contact us for more information.
Payments made on your expedition are refundable for cancellations received, in writing, at least 61 days prior to the first day of the expedition. If you cancel your trip, for whatever reason, 31-60 days prior to the start date, we will issue a refund minus a $1,000-per-person cancellation fee. If you cancel less than 30 days prior to the expedition start date, all payments will be nonrefundable.
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended to protect your investment.