Renowned the world over as a beach paradise Thailand’s party island Phuket is a holiday Mecca like no other in Asia. But one aspect of the venue that remains a closely guarded secret among those in the know is the sun-kissed venue’s reputation as a premier game fishing hub. Ideally situated on the path of marine migrations across the Andaman Sea this breathtaking island is a premier locale for angling and game fishing fans in search of the world’s biggest catches. With its ocean floors literally teeming with blue marlins, larger than life trevallys, swordfish, tuna, jacks and sailfish Phuket is a true anglers dream come true where fishing season happens to fall on all 12 months of the year.
Blessed with crystal clear waters the Andaman Sea is one of the world’s most coveted venues for game fishing and is regarded one of the top three locations in the globe for queenfish as well. Littered with a number of tour operators that offer guests fantastic gear and reliable vessels guests can embark on day charter fishing excursion or go on a liveboard trip to fishing hotspots as further away as the Similand islands.
The period between June and August however is the best time to catch sailfish as the seas are turbulent just after the monsoon rains. Every conceivable variety of sailfish can be caught during this time especially off the coast of Racha Yai and the western shores off Phuket where black marlins are found in abundance. Massive black marlins are also up for grabs off the continental shelf drop-off point just 55 miles from Phuket while barracudas, wahoos, dorados, yellow fin tuna and skipjack tuna are also found here. Fishing enthusiasts may also get the chance to skilfully reel in hammerhead and tiger sharks in an area that is also teeming with Mako sharks and bull sharks.
Phuket’s game fishing industry is such a thriving industry that it laid the foundation for forming the Phuket Game Fishing Club where the sport’s true essence is celebrated by the membership. Those on a budget can also enjoy the joys of game fishing on Phuket’s fishing trollers and indulge in a group fishing expedition on the vessels featuring two outriggers and four multiple trawls.
Travellers on the lookout for an elegant Phuket beach resort should look to Anantara Phuket Resort Thailand for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests with the best in modern comforts this luxurious Phuket resort pulls out all the stops when it comes to unforgettable vacations in paradise.
Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
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