India Fishing Charters

With over 7,000 km of coast and thousands of rivers, estuaries, and lakes, fishing in India is wild, diverse, and full of surprises. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler looking for a new challenge, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hook a trophy-size fish and create lasting memories.

Although fishing is strong year-round, target species may vary depending on the season, as well as the region. Offshore charters will take you after Yellowfin and Dogtooth Tuna, Black Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Giant Trevally, and Wahoo, just to name a few. If you join a freshwater guide, you can expect to target invasive species such as African Catfish, Asian Carp, and Alligator Gar – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Fishing charters in India offer a range of trip packages. You can choose between a half day, full day, or multi-day trip, depending on how far you’d like to travel and how much ground you’d like to cover. Shorter trips are recommended for novice anglers, as you’ll most likely be fishing in calmer waters. Longer trips are ideal for more seasoned anglers because you’ll be on the water much longer and be able to target a wider range of species.

The best areas to check out are Port Blair and Havelock, located on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Both spots offer excellent sportfishing opportunities with access to some of India’s best offshore fishing grounds. Another exciting town to check out is Kumarakom, a great spot for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. With all these amazing places and many more, you’ve got to put India on your radar for your next adventure!

Rules & Regulations

All anglers must purchase a fishing license before heading out. Each municipality should have a local office belonging to India’s Fisheries Department, and you can purchase your license here. It’s important to read up on local regulations as many species are strictly catch and release and subject to seasonality, as well as size and bag limits.

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India Fishing Seasons

January

Ring in the new year with a fun trip to the Andaman Islands! Hop on an offshore charter and go after Black Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and Yellowfin Tuna.

February

The fishing is hot in the Bay of Bengal and many big pelagic species take center stage. If you’re fishing off the coast of Chennai, you’ll want to join a local guide to take you chasing after various Tuna species and Mahi Mahi.

March

You’ve probably heard the fabled tales of Giant Trevally off the coast of India. Come check it out for yourself and see what all the hype is about! You may also encounter the likes of Bluefin, Golden, and Blacktip Trevally.

April

India hosts dozens of productive rivers and streams that are stocked with all kinds of fish from Trout to Catfish. You can also target lots of Freshwater Gar and Asian Carp. Just take your pick and get ready for a fun adventure!

May

Indian Halibut is all the rage in May, especially on the east coast of India. Join a guide and get ready to stalk the shallows for this delicious treat. If you’re on the west coast, you’ll be able to go after Threadfin Bream and Bigeye Snapper.

June

The western coast is teeming with Longtail Tuna, White and Crimson Snapper, and Red Emperor. On the east coast, you can target lots of Spangled Emperor and Golden Snapper. Just be sure to check the forecast because June marks the beginning of monsoon season.

July

July is a great time to target Narrow-barred Spanish mackerel, as long as the weather is good. Tuna fishing is hot in most areas, especially if you’re going after Yellowfin Tuna on the west coast. Just be careful because this is the peak of the monsoon season!

August

Weather permitting, the fishing can be great with lots of anglers going after various Tuna species, Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo. Reef fishing for Rusty Jobfish, Snapper, Nannygai, and Spangled Emperor are particularly rewarding this time of year.

September

If you’ve never been Shark fishing before, now is your chance! Dogfish are the key target this month, especially on the east coast. If you’re fishing from the west coast, you’ll most likely target lots of Grey Sharpnose Shark.

October

Monsoon season is finally gone, ushering in warm, sunny days. In October, you can expect to target various Tuna species, including Dogtooth, Skipjack, and Yellowfin. Other main targets include Mahi Mahi and Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel.

November

Mahi Mahi make up a large number of catches this time of year. Giant Trevally fishing is also solid. If you’re looking for a savory meal, Squid fishing is also very popular this time of year, particularly off the west coast.

December

Barramundi flood the inshore waters in December, sending anglers across the country on a fishing frenzy. Other top-catches include Sailfish, Black Marlin, Wahoo, and Mahi Mahi.