Some people can’t get fishing out of their system when they come on vacation. Me neither. It’s in my blood and I’m always wondering – Where Is the Best Fishing Spot? – no matter where I am in the world.
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Is there good fishing in Krabi? There is! I’ll tell you what I know and you can choose a fishing destination based on what it is you want to do.
Saltwater info is below. Freshwater fishing lake info >
Do I Need a Fishing License to Fish in Thailand?
No. If you are a recreational angler, you don’t need any kind of fishing license to fish in the country. It sounds bizarre, but it’s true. The state of the fishing here reflects that policy because there is very little shore fishing in Thailand! I’ll tell you why in a minute.
Fishing licenses are required for commercial fishing only.
Saltwater Fishing in Krabi
If you’ve been in Thailand for any length of time, you have probably seen many people fishing the ocean from shore or standing in shallow water (wade fishing). You also probably haven’t seen people catching fish!
There is not very good shore fishing in the saltwater (ocean) in Thailand. The reason is, there are no real fishing regulations.
So, locals have netted entire populations of fish that were close to shore because it’s convenient. They can go into the water with massive seine nets and collect all the species regardless of size and whether they are spawning.
They also have destroyed most of the sea grass that used to be plentiful in Thailand. WIthout sea grass, much of the marine life cannot live or reproduce.
So shore fishing in Thailand is generally horrible, though you will find some spots where you can do it and catch something like small groupers.
Where To Find Fish from Shore?
Look for rocky areas and fish topwater lures or lures that sink just under the surface. You’ll need to be careful not to get snagged on the rocks. There are many very small groupers around 10″–12″ that can be caught. Please don’t keep them, they are trying to grow into big groupers that move to deeper water.
So, are there bigger groupers and bigger fish to catch in the ocean around Thailand?
There are! Luckily for us, there are some natural areas where fish can be caught offshore.
How Can You Catch Fish in Krabi?
You’ll need a boat to get out on the water away from shore where the grass and coral reef has been destroyed. The further you get away from the shore, the better chance you’ll have of catching fish.
There are a couple of fishing charters that will take you out. Keep in mind, this is nothing like fishing in Phuket where you would go out on a real fishing vessel. This is going to be a small fishing boat that cruises somewhat close to shore. You can still catch fish, so it’s worth it to go out. It seems they always catch something.
What Fish Can You Catch in Krabi?
- Jack Crevalle (Giant Trevally)
- Barracuda
- Cobia
- Snapper – different species
- Grouper – different species
- Mahi-mahi (dorado / dolphin)
- Amberjack
- Wahoo
- Squid
- Black Marlin sometimes!
The fishing boat can take 5 people for 14,000 Thai Baht. That’s about 3,000 THB per person. Better if you have your own group, but they may have some people who want to join your group to make a total of 5.
Book Your Fishing Charter Here >
- Freshwater Lake Fishing – Find Out How!
- Krabi Fishery Department – Kids can see cool fish
- Krabi Attractions