If there's a place in the world that can cater to every type of angler, it's Thailand. From saltwater game fish to some of the most varied freshwater giants, these waters have it all. You just need to find the right Thailand fishing charter and you'll be set for one of the wildest angling adventures on the planet.
With access to both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, deep sea enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice. In these waters, you'll have the opportunity to reel in everything from Giant Trevally, Snapper, and Grouper to Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Billfish. For the best angling, depart from Phuket or Khao Lak and explore the bountiful FADs located offshore in the Andaman Sea.
But as great as Thailand's saltwater fishing is, the freshwater action is even more intense. That’s all thanks to the various resort lakes and private ponds you'll find across the country. These are stocked with some of the biggest and most diverse fish in the world.
Among others, Thailand's resort lakes are full of South American species such as Redtail Catfish and Arapaima. There are also Giant Mekong Catfish, huge Siamese Carp, Alligator Gar, Chao Phraya Catfish, and more. What's best though is that these fish are extremely well taken care of. Because of this, they grow to IGFA record-worthy sizes.
Besides saltwater fishing, the island of Phuket is also home to freshwater lakes where you can wrestle the aforementioned giants. Bangkok also has numerous fishing parks, and there are guides who'll offer to meet you there and transport you to the fisheries outside major cities. In Thailand, it's all about finding the right fishing guide.
Rules & Regulations
Anglers fishing in Thailand don't have to purchase fishing licenses. However, angling is prohibited in areas designated as marine parks. Resort lakes also operate under their own rules that you'll have to follow.