Tarpon fishing these days is best out in the Caribbean where anglers can expect lots of action when the sea is relatively calm. While anglers can have exceptional sport on these 45- to 80-pound acrobats, it should be clear that it's not always possible to reach the Caribbean. We think July, August and the fall months will be particularly good. Because of the open nature of the area, light spinning or plug casting tackle is the standard, along with fly rods and fast sinking lines. Costa Rica's snook fishing is world class: 20-pound snook are not as common as they used to be, but they are still plentiful. Resorts such as Silver King, Rio Parismina Lodge and others offer comfortable, modern accommodations, plus large fleets of well maintained 23-ft. Carolina type skiffs.

Of special note: The Rain Goddess, the "cool" modern houseboat, has been drawing lots of fine comments. It can also fish the Nicaraguan rivers and lagoons and tarpon fishing can be great.