Pattaya

Pattaya is an excellent place for game fishing with the possibility of catching sailfish, marlin, Mahi mahi (dorado), tuna, and other species. The shallow island reefs are also home to many species of light-tackle gamefish including sea bass, barracuda, giant trevally, queenfish and mangrove jack. Pelagic species like black marlin and sailfish, as well as king mackerel and tiger sharks are found in Blue water.

Late November is a good time to go after marlin, tuna and any number of other fighting fish, and larger black marlin, up to 300kg have been cought. Also found are yellowfin tuna (20kg), wahoo (40kg) and numerous barracuda, dorado and skipjack tuna. Tiger, hammerhead and bull sharks, plus the occasional mako might also take the bait during day or night-fishing trips.

There are about ten reputable Thai fishing captains and a half dozen qualified professional fishing guides in Pattaya. Most will provide rods, reels, tackle, and bait but you are more than welcome to bring your own gear. The chances are that you will be able to arrange to go out any day of the week which suits you. Most boats leave around 5:00 a.m. and return at approximately 6:00 p.m, but there are also overnight fishing trips available.

Almost all of the charters are on board traditional Thai fishing boats, which are up to 18 meters in length. These not only give good fishing but also the chance to share in a bit of Thai culture. Mostly, the waters are calm enough for everyone to enjoy a day out, the Pattaya Gulf is sheltered and therefore not subject to the large swells and rough seas.