Catch of the Day: Catch It, Cook It & Eat It

By Shawn Rohde

Do you have what it takes to battle a fish, weighing twice as much as you, for several hours? Deep-sea fishing is a sport for anyone who craves excitement and adventure. Nature will test your stamina, strength and skill. Whether you are an amateur or pro, fishing in St. Maarten/St. Martin will be an experience you won't forget. The island hosts several highly regarded competitions; however, you can test your character any time with Lee's Deep Sea Fishing Charters.

Lee started out in 1973 with a locally built 18-foot boat. Today, this prize-winning fisherman has a fleet of three well-equipped 31-foot Bertrams. The 1/2 day, 3/4 day or full day charter will take you to some of the best fishing spots off the banks of Saba, St. Eustatius, Anguilla and St. Barths. Depending on the season, your opponent may be a marlin, tuna, wahoo or mahimahi. As Lee says, "There's nothing in the world like landing a marlin, but the best sport fishing challenge is mahimahi. And if you are a marlin enthusiast we offer some of the best marlin fishing during the months of May, June and July."

What could be better than spending the day conquering a noble opponent? How about handing your catch to Chef Gregory at Lee's Roadside Grill? He would be happy to prepare a delicious lunch or dinner using your fresh catch. Chef Gregory will use your just-caught Saba lobster to make a savory stuffing out of breadcrumbs, onions, peppers, celery and white wine. He will lightly marinate your mahimahi and cook it over a charcoal grill. Once the fish is moist and tender he will gently stuff it with the buttery lobster stuffing. The dish is finished with a white wine sauce and served with his famous rice and peas accompanied by potato salad. If you prefer it prepared a different way, Chef Gregory is also open to suggestions. Lee's Roadside Grill is the perfect place to relax by the water while enjoying fresh fish in a Caribbean setting as live music plays in the background.

Lee's Roadside Grill is located at 84 Welfare Road, Simpson Bay Lagoon, across from Royal Palm Resort. For reservations, call 599-544-4233 or 599-544-4234. Regular hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and fishing hours start at 7 a.m. Excursion groups must contain a minimum of four people and a maximum of six people.

You'll just have to ditch the diet and enjoy more than three meals a day while in St. Maarten/St. Martin. Check out our Dining Guide to plan ahead and get the full details and contact information for reservations for the islands great restaurants!