Set your sights on Fujairah for the best fishing in the UAE. Bordering the Gulf of Oman, this emirate is known for its beaches in Dibba, the Hajar Mountains, and exceptional game fishing opportunities. Many anglers who look for a fishing trip in Dubai make their way to Fujairah instead, searching for bigger and more prestigious prizes.
Known For
Fishing in Fujairah is all about hunting down big game trophies. What makes this sport different in this corner of the world is the terrain. Hundreds of ships bearing gas and oil shipments attract baitfish and their predators from the open sea. A typical fishing trip in Fujairah involves zipping around oil tankers in a speedboat, hopping from one hotspot to the next. The longer a ship has been parked, the better the fishing. Wrecks and sunken submarines also act as hotspots below the water’s surface.
The deep water of the Gulf and generally warm weather make Fujairah the perfect place for deep sea fishing, where many species are biting all year round. A Fujairah fishing charter might take you 10 miles out into the Strait of Hormuz or as far as 40-50 miles offshore. Many charter operators offer half day trips between four and five hours long as well as full day trips which last for eight hours. A longer trip allows anglers to try different spots and target more species.
Some of the most commonly caught species in these waters are Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, and giant Barracuda. In the warmest months, you could catch as many as 20-30 Mahi Mahi in one trip! Depending on the season, you might also hook into Amberjack, Longtail Tuna, Threadfin Trevally, or Rainbow Runner.
The most sought-after game fish in Fujairah is without a doubt the regal Sailfish. Your chances of landing this prize are good year-round. Yellowfin Tuna, Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, and Striped Marlin all make their appearance here as well, mostly from May through September.
Rules & Regulations
A recreational fishing license is required in the UAE. Tourists can obtain a temporary fishing license with the help of their hotel or fishing charter operator. Some fishing charters in Fujairah will attend to this on behalf of their customers. Be advised that you may be asked to bring your passport on board with your tourist visa or UAE visitors papers.
Types of Fishing
Deep sea fishing in Fujairah gives anglers a chance to experiment with many different methods. Whether trolling for Sailfish and Marlin, deep jigging for Amberjack and Red Snapper, or casting spoons for Longtail Tuna. Some local fishing charters offer night fishing for Yellowfin Tuna, which involves live bait fishing, jigging, or spooning. Barracuda may bite while you are deep jigging for other species or trolling along the surface with live bait and lures.
Avid shore fishermen will find opportunities in Dibba Al Fujairah and Khor Fakkan, casting soft baits, small lures, and jigs for Bream and other small fish.