Adventure on high seas

Dubai hotel introduces enthusiasts to the exciting world of sailfishing

Imagine wrestling with fish as heavy as 245 pounds- you're right, it's not a sport for the faint hearted. But it's gaining popularity and anglers from all over the world are naming Dubai as their newest destination.

Aim to break a record, and if you are game, the charter captain and his crew at the information centre of Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina will help introduce you to the exciting world of sailfishing.

Sailfish is a beautiful dark blue fish with a jaw shaped like a pointed spear belonging to the Istiophoridae (billfish) family. Its obvious name is inspired from the huge dorsal fin that flares up in the water. These fish are held in high esteem because of their high speed and jumping abilities.

The furious chasing and remarkable fight that this proud fish puts up, gets your adrenaline pumping at extraordinary levels. Catching this beauty and pulling it from the water is a test of your patience, skill and strength.

You are not alone in this high drama but are helped in your endeavour by the captain and the crew of the boat. Lorie Heynike, public relations manager at Le Meridien, said, "Our South African crew have an experience of 10-30 years and take the boat 30 miles out into the sea, where the action is. The boats can accommodate a party of six and cost Dh2,000 for an eight-hour session which includes all gear, tackle and bait."

The boats sail everyday but you have to book in advance. Myrna Barrios at the information centre said, "If people are looking for companions to share the boat, we can arrange a schedule if they book in advance. Customers are also welcome to flip through our album of past sailfishing to view photos of the beauties."

There is heightened excitement in hauling out the fish, but passion and respect for the sailfish is what counts to excel in this sport. With that very zeal, in March this year, the captain and crew were able to pull out 30 sailfish, all in one morning.

To my questions of harm to the angler, the charter captain replied, "This blue beauty is not dangerous, one only has to watch out for its pointed bill."

Apart from sailfish, one can see Baracuda, King and Queen fish as well.

The eco-conservationist in you will be happy to know that once the sailfish is pulled out it has to be tagged and released back into the waters. So, while you're indulging in this magnificent sport, you are also doing your bit for the environment.

The tags are provided by UAE's Environmental Research and Wildlife Development Agency (ERWDA) and contain their contact details and an exclusive number for your fish.

The ERWDA website says, "The sailfish co-operative tagging programme aids scientists in understanding the basic migratory behaviour and habitat preferences of the Gulf sailfish".

Additionally, a form has to be filled and turned in with the size and length of the fish, the exact co-ordinates where you caught it and the name of the angler.

Still not had enough? Then how about participating in the sailfishing tournaments organised in the UAE thrice a year?

Tournaments follow rules laid down by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). So go out into the sea where the fish bite and perfect those angling moves - you might be the next King or Queen of the Sailfish Tournament.