Whenever one is planning to do some fishing in Phuket, one thing that really matters is that you land a good catch. The good thing is that there are a lot of fishing trips and tours that can take you the very best fishing spots. You can choose to ship with local sea gypsies or do it while you are on your island hoping tours.
There are lots places to fish. From deep sea fishing Phuket at the Andaman Sea to fishing parks, there is always some fish to catch. The good thing about fishing on this island is that you will find even the most exotic fish species that are usually sort after by most fishermen from all over the globe. There are also fishing charters that are available to assist travellers in the fishing based on both fishing skill level or budget. Besides the fishing packages, some of the fishing tour companies can add in customized charter trips as well as party cruises.
All you need to know about fishing on the island of Phuket
Whether its fresh water fishing or salt water fishing, you can enjoy them both in Phuket. Let’s examine these two options a bit more…
Salt water fishing
If you are one of the anglers or people that enjoys some deep sea fishing, then you are in luck. When it comes to big game fishing, Phuket takes the crown these days. It has become one of the greatest fishing destinations in Asia. Fishermen travel from all over the word to come and fish some of these exotic game species such as Wahoo, Sailfish, Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, and Giant Trevally.
Even if you are fishing in the reefs, you will still be in luck as you can catch fish like the Snapper and Grouper among other fish. One thing about fishing in Phuket is that there are no disappointments. All you need is to book fishing tour and you will be able to enjoy your fishing.
Salt water fishing sites in Phuket
There are 3 famous destinations that most fishing boats visit: Racha Yai, Racha Noi, and the continental shelf. This is because they are closer. Most visitors are usually taken to Racha Yai because it is the largest Racha island, promising anglers some big game fishing. The current streams in the 3 destinations attract the Sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Longtail Tuna, Barracuda, Dorado coryphée and many more…
If you want to specifically catch the Giant Trevally take Phuket fishing charters that go to Racha Noi. Here, you will also find some more varieties of game fish like Rainbow-runners, Dogtooth Tuna, and Black Marlin.
For better access to the Black Marlin, had a little further to the edge of the continental shelf, also known as ‘the drop off’. The ocean floor here suddenly plunges from 130ft to almost 1000ft making it perfect for deep sea fishing Phuket. Besides the Black Marlin, swimming in these waters too are the Skipjack Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Barracuda and sometimes the Sailfish.
Cost:
The prices for Phuket fishing charters vary depending on the boat you take. The cheapest are traditional wooden Thai boat that cost about $350 for a group of four to six people. There is the option of a private charter abord a speedboat. This will cost about $815 for four to six people. If money isn’t the issue, get the experience of a lifetime fishing in Phuket on a yacht which costs between $2,000 to $3,600, depending on your fishing destination.
Freshwater Fishing
There are local fishing parks if you are not a fun of the sea experience. Some resorts have lakes that are artificially cultivated, and that accommodate a wide range of fish species.
At these fishing parks, you will find both local fish as well as imported exotic species. Some fish hailed by anglers who visit these parks are, Alligator Gar, Wallago Leeri, Siamese Carp, Giant Mekong Catfish, Arapaima and the Pacu (similar to the Piranha). These giant fishes usually range between 300 and 500 lbs. The smaller species like Snakehead and Spotted Featherback (that swim backwards) have also been the talk of most anglers about how impressive they are.
Cost
A full day fishing (8-11 hours) attracts an entrance fee of between $100 to $320 per person. This fee includes the fishing rods and bucket of bait. Prices for fly fishing in Phuket are higher, costing about $225 per day.
There are fishing guides to assist those who are new to fishing and some of the fishing parks charge an additional fee for one.
Depending on the park, a half day (4-6 hours) will cost you between $100 to $270 though not all fishing parks offer the half day option.
A considerable number of parks have meals and accommodation at varied prices.
Fishing seasons
Fishing can be done all year round. That said though, the best and most convenient time to fish is begins in October and ends in March. The seas are usually very high in the monsoon seasons between May and August which makes it perfect for hunting the Marlin. There is also the annual Phuket International Sport fishing tournament in November which runs for three days. During this fishing challenge, the anglers get to catch the marlin and other fish.
Conclusion
When fishing in Phuket, it all depends on what kind of experience you are going for. You can do small local boats, long tail boat or even go as lavish as doing a yacht with meals on board and insurance. Most fishing companies are usually fully booked. So, if you are traveling to Phuket and hope to fish while you are there, better book a boat or that yacht in advance.
If you are also keen for some other adventures then nothing beats a relaxing trip out on a private charter boat tour of Phuket with Simba for some fun in the sun! So get in touch today to organize your group tour.
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