Jude Lasantha
Captain

Jude Lasantha

Tangalle, Sri Lanka
10+ reviews
I come from a family of fishermen, learning the craft early on from my uncle, who taught me the essential skills and values of this profession. Fishing began as a family tradition but quickly grew into a personal passion, evolving from a hobby into a meaningful career. Over time, I dedicated myself to mastering various techniques from around the world, blending traditional methods with new innovations to offer a unique experience. Today, I'm proud to be recognized as one of the most skilled anglers in southern Sri Lanka, sharing my expertise and love for the ocean with every guest I take on the water.
Binara T.
Binara T.
First mate

Charter

Rating

4.9
13 reviews
4.8
Boat & Equipment
5.0
Captain & Crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

All reviews (13)

Showing 15 of 13 reviews
  • Jimmy Reeve
    Jimmy Reeve
    gb
    United Kingdom
    Member since 2023
    5.0
    Verified

    fantastic!

    5 Hour Trip – Popping & Jigging2 adults

    Captain Jude put on an amazing trip for us! He is super passionate and helpful and clearly loves what he does! Despite hard bite conditions he put us on the fish and we ended up with a boatfull! I would recommend Reel Crazy for anyone looking to go fishing I Sri Lanka, Jude is incredibly knowledgeable about the fishery and has great equipment that other boats in the area just don’t offer. Thanks Jude!

    Reported catch:
    Great Barracuda
    Response from Captain

    Thank you James for the beautiful tour please come again. 🙏🎣

  • Natalia Goncharova
    Natalia Goncharova
    Repeat angler
    ae
    United Arab Emirates
    Member since 2025
    5 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great experience

    5 Hour Trip – Live Bait Fishing2 adults

    Had a great fishing experience with Reel Crazy - Tangalle Sport Fishing Tours! We went for a 5-hour morning fishing trip with the guys. Everything was well organized! The team is very experienced and knowledgeable, very familiar with the location and its best fishing spots. We were provided various kinds of equipment, as we did not have our own with us, and it was good quality. I would definitely recommend this unique experience - fishing in the Indian Ocean while your stay in Sri-Lanka.

    Response from Captain

    Thank you so much, Natalia! 🙏 It was a real pleasure having you on board with us. We are very happy to hear that you enjoyed the trip and the experience out on the ocean. Our team always does their best to make every guest feel comfortable, safe, and well looked after — and it’s great to know you appreciated the equipment and the effort we put into finding the best fishing spots. We truly appreciate your recommendation. If anyone reading this is looking for a fun, safe, and professional fishing experience in Tangalle or the south coast — you are always welcome to join us at Reel Crazy Sport Fishing! 🎣🌊 Hope to see you again on your next visit to Sri Lanka! 🇱🇰✨

  • Rudy Vannucci
    Rudy Vannucci
    Member since 2025
    5.0

    Fun & fish

    5 Hour Trip – Popping & Jigging

    Everybody should go fishing with Jude , you gonna have for sure an amazing moment with multiple type of fishing and amazing moment to share with Jude and Newton 🙌

    Reported catch:
    Great Barracuda
    Giant Trevally
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Response from Captain

    thank you so much . hope we will fish again together soon .

  • Vidur Sawhney
    Vidur Sawhney
    lk
    Sri Lanka
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    A-Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience

    4 Hour Trip (PM)2 adults

    If there’s one person who can turn a casual day out into an unforgettable, life-changing adventure, it’s Captain Jude of ReelCrazy. My wife and I were lucky enough to experience his magic during our honeymoon in Tangalle, and I can confidently say that meeting him was one of the absolute highlights of our trip—not just in Sri Lanka but of all our travels. This is a memory I will cherish until the day I die. From the moment we met Captain Jude, his energy and warmth set the tone for what was to come. He greeted us with the kind of infectious enthusiasm that immediately puts you at ease. Though he typically caters to experienced fishermen chasing big catches, he went above and beyond to tailor an outing specifically for me—a complete novice in fishing. His patience, kindness, and genuine passion for sharing his craft made me feel like I belonged out there on the water. What sets Captain Jude apart is his incredible flexibility and willingness to accommodate every need. Knowing it was our honeymoon, he customized the entire experience to ensure it was romantic, adventurous, and memorable. From sharing tips about fishing to pointing out the beauty of the sea, he balanced everything perfectly. He even helped me reel in my very first catch—an experience I’ll never forget! It was clear that he was as excited about my success as I was. Captain Jude is not just a master of his craft; he’s also a true entertainer. His banter and sharp sense of humor kept us laughing throughout the day. Whether he was sharing stories from his years at sea or cracking jokes that left us in stitches, his vibrant personality turned a great outing into an extraordinary one. And let’s talk about his knowledge—this man knows the sea like the back of his hand. His sailing and fishing expertise are unparalleled, and he has a sixth sense for finding the best spots. It’s no wonder experienced anglers trust him to guide them to their dream catches. But what impressed me even more was his ability to share that knowledge in a way that even a beginner like me could understand and appreciate. I cannot recommend Captain Jude and ReelCrazy enough. If you’re considering a charter fishing experience in Tangalle, don’t hesitate for a second—this is the person you want to guide you. He doesn’t just offer a service; he offers a memory that will last a lifetime. Thank you, Captain Jude, for making our honeymoon so special. You’re a legend, and we’ll be singing your praises forever.

    Response from Captain

    Thank You Mr. Vidur and Wife! Wow, what an incredible review! It was truly an honor to be part of your honeymoon adventure and to share a bit of my world on the water with you both. Hearing that your day with Reel Crazy was a highlight of your travels means the world to me. I'm so glad I could help make your first fishing experience not only successful but also unforgettable! Seeing your excitement with that first catch was a moment I'll never forget either. At Reel Crazy, it's always my goal to create experiences that are as unique as the guests who join me—whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner just looking for a memorable day out. Thank you for your kind words about my passion, humor, and approach; it truly motivates me to keep doing what I love. Wishing you and your wife a lifetime of love, laughter, and more adventures! If you're ever back in Tangalle, you know where to find me. Tight lines and fair winds, Jude

  • Joep Jansen
    Joep Jansen
    Member since 2024
    5.0

    Half a day with captain Jude

    5 Hour Trip – Popping & Jigging

    Had a amazing experience with Jude. Definitely a well known fisherman and knows all the good spots. We did different types of fishing (trolling and spinning) with both had great success. Jude is a passionate fisher who loves to give the tour. The boat itself was perfect for the activity, had 2 trolling attachments and the rods themselves were also great (Europeaan high quality). Some fishing boats around us clearly didn’t have the same type of material as us, no trolling attachments at the boat, only spinning reels and no baitrunners. Also insurance, applying at the coast guard was all fixed for me which gave me a good feeling. Jude speaks good English and is in for a good laugh, definitely nice to spend a day with him on the boat.

    Reported catch:
    Giant Trevally
    Response from Captain

    Thank you so much for your kind words and detailed review! It was truly a pleasure having you on board Reel Crazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing Charter. I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the experience and appreciated the quality of the equipment and the variety of fishing techniques we tried. I take pride in ensuring everything is in place—from top-notch gear to proper licensing and safety measures—so that you can focus on having a great time on the water. Your success and enjoyment are always my top priorities. I’m glad we could share some laughs and make the day enjoyable both on and off the rods. I’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime for another adventure! Tight lines and happy fishing! 🎣 – Captain Jude

Real catches shared by our community

  • ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing Charter
    ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing CharterTangalle
    fantastic!
    Jimmy R.
    Jimmy R.
  • ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing Charter
    ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing CharterTangalle
    Great experience
    Natalia G.
    Natalia G.
  • ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing Charter
    ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing CharterTangalle
    Great for couples
    Larry K.
    Larry K.
  • ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing Charter
    ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing CharterTangalle
    Amazing day wide Jude on the sea
    Niclas W.
    Niclas W.
  • ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing Charter
    ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing CharterTangalle
    Jude is the man!
    Marcus O.
    Marcus O.
  • ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing Charter
    ReelCrazy – Tangalle Sport Fishing CharterTangalle
    A-Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience
    Vidur S.
    Vidur S.

Fishing reports

An angler proudly displaying a large Yellowtail while fishing on a sunny day in a small boat.

Fishing adventure with Alexy and Nathali

Nov 19, 2025 • Tangalle
Trip Report – Alexey & Nathalie (Russia) Today I had the pleasure of taking Alexey and Nathalie from Russia on a 4-hour fishing trip. They are wonderful people and passionate anglers who travelled all the way from Mirissa to fish with me in Tangalle. The conditions were great, and the action didn’t disappoint! We managed to land a beautiful rainbow runner, a few nice snappers, and a stunning queenfish. They enjoyed every moment on the water, and it was a fun, memorable trip for all of us. Looking forward to fishing with them again! ?
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Two anglers celebrating a successful catch of a large Trevally while fishing from a colorful boat in clear waters.

Fishing Report – 10th Jan 2025 -Niclos

Jan 10, 2025 • Tangalle
**Fishing Report – 10th January 2025** *Guests: Niclos and his elder brother* What a beautiful day it was on January 10th, 2025! We kicked off the day with the peaceful sound of the waves and the breathtaking sight of the sunrise. It was an unforgettable start to what turned out to be a fantastic fishing adventure. The action began early with both Niclos and his brother reeling in some impressive catches. They enjoyed the thrill of screaming reels right from the get-go, catching Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, and Giant Trevally (GT). They were using light spinning reels, which made the fight with the average-sized GTs even more exciting. Both brothers had a blast casting and battling the fish on light rods, making for an incredibly fun and challenging experience. As the sun rose higher and the heat intensified, we decided to head back. The brothers were all smiles, reflecting on what was undoubtedly one of their best fishing experiences. Niclos mentioned that he would love to come back again soon! It was truly a wonderful day on the water, and I look forward to having them back for another unforgettable adventure. Tight lines!
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Two anglers proudly displaying a large fish aboard a colorful fishing boat, showcasing a successful day on the water.

A Memorable Fishing Adventure - December

Dec 31, 2024 • Tangalle
It was the last day of the year, and the morning greeted us with a promise of adventure. The sun rose gently over the ocean, painting the waves with hues of gold. Our guests for the day, Marcus and his girlfriend, arrived at the dock with warm smiles that set the tone for an incredible journey ahead. Our first destination was a spot known for Giant Trevally (GT). The conditions were serene, and the water shimmered invitingly under the morning light. Spirits were high as we cast our lines, brimming with optimism. Despite our best efforts, the GT remained elusive. Refusing to be discouraged, we decided to cover more ground, hoping for better luck elsewhere. As we moved to deeper waters, the day’s challenge became clear—the fish weren’t biting easily. Observing the calm waters, I, as the captain, decided to change strategy. We set our sights on the horizon, scanning for birds that could lead us to a school of tuna. After some time, even this proved fruitless. Undeterred, I consulted with local fishermen we encountered. I went for the ideal jigging spots. This shift in tactics proved to be the game-changer. As soon as Marcus dropped his jig to the bottom, he felt the thrilling tug of a strike. Excitement surged as he battled his first catch, a determined fighter that eventually escaped. Undaunted, he sent his jig back down and was rewarded with a beautiful 3kg grouper. The joy on his face was contagious. Not long after, Marcus reeled in a stunning Yellowspotted trevally about 6kg. His persistence and determination were paying off, and the thrill of the catch was palpable. We did lose a jig along the way, but by then, the smiles and laughter on board outweighed the loss. By the end of the trip, Marcus and his girlfriend were overjoyed. The day may not have gone exactly as planned, but the twists and turns made it all the more memorable. They appreciated every moment on the water and promised to return for another adventure. As the time passes, we sailed back to the dock, reflecting on a day filled with perseverance, camaraderie, and the magic of the ocean. Marcus and his girlfriend left with stories to tell, and we, too, were reminded of the unpredictable beauty of fishing—where every day holds the promise of something unforgettable. Here’s to more adventures and tight lines in the new year! ?
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A young angler joyfully reeling in a fish during a sunset fishing trip on a small boat.

Anither thriller day Ethan, Joshua, Dane

Dec 21, 2024 • Tangalle
Anither thriller day Ethan, Joshua, Daneil Our day began at 5:30 AM, with the sky gently painted in hues of gray as a light drizzle set the scene for an exciting trolling adventure. It was a day brimming with promise, as our trio of eager young anglers—Joshua, Ethan, and Daniel—brought not only their gear but also an infectious passion for fishing. The first thrill came quickly. With lines out and reels steady, we landed our first catch—a stunning spotted trevally. The excitement in the boys’ eyes was unmatched. Encouraged by the success, we pressed on, scanning the waters and following the telltale signs of birds diving into a feeding frenzy. The real action began when the reel suddenly screamed like a race car engine—a sound every angler lives for. After a spirited fight, we brought aboard a magnificent Spanish mackerel, its sleek body shimmering in the dim morning light. Cheers erupted on deck as we celebrated the victory. The day was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and memorable moments. Joshua, Ethan, and Daniel proved not only to be skilled young anglers but also an absolute joy to fish with. Their energy and enthusiasm turned a rainy day into a truly magical experience. As we wrapped up and shared stories of the morning’s adventure, we knew this was a day none of us would forget. Many praises to these incredible young fishermen! Until we meet again, tight lines and endless adventures await. Join us on your own fishing journey—book your adventure with **Reel Crazy Sportfishing** in Tangalle. The ocean is calling!
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Two anglers proudly displaying a large Barracuda while fishing from a small boat in open waters.

Trip with Mr. Aleksei and Mr. Gennadii

Dec 16, 2024 • Tangalle
We kicked off our trip early at 5:30 AM, ready to make the most of the beautiful morning on the water. The day started with a popping session where we had some exciting action right from the beginning. We then switched to trolling, and our efforts paid off when we landed a good-sized Spanish Mackerel. As we trolled under birds feeding nearby, we had a massive bite but unfortunately missed it. The excitement continued to build as we shifted back to popping, and this time Mr. Gennadii had a BIG GT on the line! It was an incredible fight, but the powerful GT managed to open the Rapala lure hooks and got away. Another GT even followed the lure right up to the boat, giving us a glimpse of its size and strength. We also decided to try some bottom fishing with calamari as bait. It turned into a fun session where we landed two small Tomato Groupers and a Trigger Fish while hoping for a big one. It was a nice change of pace and added to the excitement of the day. Mr. Aleksei, on the other hand, had an absolute blast catching plenty of Queen Fish throughout the trip. There was a particularly funny moment when a GT flashed in the water near the boat, and Mr. Aleksei got a little frightened! It had all of us bursting into laughter and made for a great story to remember. The energy and enthusiasm were high as both anglers enjoyed every moment on the water. At the end of the trip, both Mr. Aleksei and Mr. Gennadii promised me they would be back again soon for another round of action-packed fishing next time. It was a pleasure to have them on board, and I look forward to our next adventure together! Tight lines! Jude Reel Crazy Charters
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A Memorable Day with Joep

Dec 14, 2024 • Tangalle
Date: 14/12/2024 Location: Tangalle Sri Lanka Weather: Calm sea. Fishing Methods: Trolling & Spinning Today’s fishing trip with Joep was nothing short of spectacular. The weather was perfect, with calm seas and a gentle breeze, providing ideal conditions for both trolling and spinning. Joep’s energy and passion for fishing made the day even more enjoyable, and it was clear that he’s an experienced angler who knows how to handle the rods and reels with skill. We began with trolling, and the fish were eager to bite. Joep landed a beautiful catch early on, setting the tone for the day. We moved to different fishing spots, taking full advantage of the boat’s trolling attachments and high-quality rods, which really made a difference. The boat handled smoothly, and the equipment was top-notch, ensuring a productive and comfortable experience on the water. Switching to spinning ,Joep continued to impress with his technique, reeling in several more fish as we explored the areas. The ocean was kind to us, and we left the water with a great haul, but more importantly, with memories of an unforgettable day. Overall, it was a fantastic trip with plenty of action, great company, and perfect conditions. Looking forward to welcoming more anglers like Joep in the future! Tight lines and happy fishing! Book your next adventure now!
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