Be a Fisherman for a Day: Private Mangrove Fishing Adventure from Cartagena
Push off from Cartagena into a network of tidal channels and spend four hours learning traditional fishing techniques—handmade nets, crab traps and manual boat steering—before eating the catch cooked in classic Cartagena style. This private tour blends hands-on skills with local culture and ecology.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear water-friendly shoes
Expect boat decks and muddy shorelines—closed-toe water shoes or old sneakers with good grip protect toes and keep you steady when boarding or checking traps.
Sun protection is mandatory
Bring a wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses—reflected sun off water intensifies UV exposure during midday.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Tidal channels are gentle but the small wooden boats can sway; if you’re prone to seasickness, take meds beforehand and sit mid-boat.
Carry small cash
Tip local guides and purchase any extra snacks or drinks from village stalls—cards are not always accepted in the mangrove neighborhoods.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the short pier at the village for close-up views of local boat-building techniques
- •Ask to taste fresh coconut rice with fish—local cooks use recipes unique to this mangrove neighborhood
Wildlife
- •Mangrove crabs
- •Great blue heron
Conservation Note
Mangroves trap carbon and protect Cartagena's shoreline; tours support local livelihoods but visitors should avoid disturbing roots, wildlife and discard of plastics.
The fishing neighborhoods around Cartagena have long been sustained by Afro-Caribbean communities whose techniques and boat-making traditions date back generations and shaped local coastal cuisine.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the bow when exiting the main channel
- • Near the lagoon edge where traps are checked
What to Bring
Water shoes or old sneakersEssential
Protects feet on slippery boat decks and muddy shores.
Quick-dry clothingEssential
Dries fast after splashes and keeps you comfortable in humid conditions.
Insect repellentEssential
Mangrove edges host mosquitoes—repellent prevents bites during calm tide periods.
Wide-brim hat and polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and improves visibility when spotting fish and traps.
Common Questions
How long is the experience?
The tour runs about 4 hours total, including pickup and return to Cartagena.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes—children are welcome but must be supervised; the activity requires sitting in a small boat and checking traps periodically.
Do I need prior fishing experience?
No prior experience is required; guides teach all techniques, from net-handling to trap-checking.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The operator may cancel for heavy rain or unsafe conditions; you’ll be offered a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Is lunch included?
Yes—lunch is provided and typically includes the catch prepared Cartagena-style with rice, salad and fried plantain.
Are there restroom facilities?
Basic facilities are available near the departure point and at the village, but not on the boat—plan accordingly.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Cartagena, Bolívar
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light physical activity—suitable for most people who can sit and move with balance; requires basic mobility for boarding and checking traps.
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