Fishing Trips from Phuket: Deep Sea and Local

Fishing from Phuket

The Andaman Sea around Phuket provides diverse fishing opportunities, from deep sea sport fishing for marlin and sailfish to relaxed bottom fishing for snapper and grouper. Whether you are a serious angler or a family looking for a fun activity, there is a fishing trip suited to your interests.

Types of Fishing Trips

Deep Sea Game Fishing

This is the premium fishing experience from Phuket. Purpose-built sport fishing boats head out to deep water (200+ meters) in search of big game species. Trips depart early morning and run for a full day.

Target species: Sailfish, marlin (blue and black), mahi-mahi (dorado), wahoo, yellowfin tuna, giant trevally

Season: Year round, but the best months for billfish (sailfish and marlin) are October through April.

Duration: Full day (7:00 AM to 5:00 PM approximately)

Cost: 20,000 to 50,000 THB per boat for a charter (typically 4 to 6 anglers)

What is included: Boat, captain, crew, tackle, bait, lunch, drinks, ice

Bottom and Reef Fishing

A more relaxed style of fishing using bottom rigs to target reef species. The boat anchors over reefs or rocky areas at depths of 20 to 80 meters. This is suitable for all skill levels, including children and complete beginners.

Target species: Red snapper, grouper, barracuda, trevally, queenfish, coral trout

Season: Year round

Duration: Half day (4 to 5 hours) or full day

Cost: 8,000 to 20,000 THB per boat, or 2,000 to 4,000 THB per person on shared trips

Trolling

A technique where lines are trailed behind a moving boat. This targets pelagic species closer to shore than deep sea fishing.

Target species: Spanish mackerel, queenfish, barracuda, cobia, trevally

Season: Year round, better during calmer months

Duration: Half day to full day

Cost: 12,000 to 30,000 THB per boat

Squid Fishing (Night)

An unusual but popular experience. Boats head out after dark with powerful lights to attract squid. You use specialized jigs to catch them.

Duration: Evening (6:00 PM to 10:00 PM approximately)

Cost: 1,500 to 3,000 THB per person

What to Expect on a Fishing Trip

A typical deep sea fishing day:

1. Early start: Meet at the marina (usually Chalong Bay) around 7:00 AM.
2. Transit: 1 to 2 hours reaching the fishing grounds.
3. Fishing: 4 to 6 hours of active fishing. The crew handles bait, rigging, and boat positioning. When a fish strikes, you take the rod and fight the fish with the crew's guidance.
4. Lunch: Usually served on the boat mid-day.
5. Return: Back at the marina by 4:00 to 5:00 PM.

No experience is necessary. The captain and crew handle all the technical aspects and will teach you techniques throughout the day. Even first-time anglers regularly catch fish.

Catch and Release vs Keep

Most sport fishing operators practice catch and release for billfish (marlin and sailfish) as these species are important for the ocean ecosystem. Smaller species (snapper, grouper, tuna) are typically kept, and many operators will arrange for a local restaurant to cook your catch for dinner. Some restaurants near Chalong Bay specialize in this service.

What to Bring

• Sunscreen and hat: You are exposed to sun all day on the water.
• Motion sickness medication: The boat can rock significantly, especially when anchored.
• Light, breathable clothing: Long sleeves protect from the sun.
• Camera: For trophy photos with your catch.
• Comfortable shoes: Non-slip shoes or deck shoes.

Choosing a Fishing Charter

• Boat quality: Check photos and reviews. A well-maintained boat with proper fishing equipment makes a big difference.
• Captain experience: An experienced captain who knows local waters and fish behavior is the most important factor.
• Tackle quality: Good rods, reels, and line are essential, especially for big game fish.
• Ask about recent catches: Reputable operators are happy to share recent fishing reports.

Fishing adds a different dimension to a Phuket holiday. It combines time on the beautiful Andaman Sea with the excitement of hooking into a powerful fish. For those who prefer to stay above the water while exploring the islands, browse our island tour options.

Best Fishing Seasons

While fishing is available year round from Phuket, certain species have peak seasons. Sailfish are best targeted from November to March when they move through the Andaman Sea. Marlin catches peak from December to April, and giant trevally are more active in cooler months from November to February. Mahi-mahi are most common October to February during their migration, and yellowfin tuna appear year round with peak catches during the dry season when seas are calmer and boats can reach offshore grounds more reliably.

During the monsoon season (May to October), offshore fishing is more challenging due to rough seas, but inshore and reef fishing remain viable on calmer days. Some dedicated anglers prefer this period because the rougher water concentrates fish around structures and reefs.

Family-Friendly Fishing

Bottom fishing trips are well suited for families with children. The pace is relaxed, the fish bite regularly to keep kids engaged, and there is no need for special skills. Many charter operators welcome children age 6 and up. The calm waters inside Phang Nga Bay also offer sheltered fishing spots where the boat barely rocks, making it comfortable for younger passengers. Some operators offer combination trips that include fishing in the morning and snorkeling in the afternoon, giving the whole family activities they enjoy.