Have you thought about staying state-side and trying something off the beaten path?
There’s Flatehead Lake in Montana. 50lb trout and forests growing underwater.
I know you mentioned you were looking for warm water, but if you were to invest the same money to travel overseas into dry-suits and undergarments you’d save a bit, have an adventure most of your friends wouldn’t dream of and gain knowledge few others will ever know.
Just a thought.