How to Learn Deep Sea Fishing in Koh Samui

Although Koh Samui is not well known as a game fishing destination, the sea off the island where it is deeper than 100 meters teem with Barracuda, Marlin, Cobia, Shark Sail Fish, Mackerel, Snapper, Grouper offering exciting game fishing experiences from beginners to experts. Game fishing opportunities abound throughout the year and there are several experienced game fishing outfits to take big game fishermen on to fertile fishing grounds. However game fishermen need to plan their trip carefully if they are to have an enjoyable sporting experience.

Step 1: Planning the Trip

The most common game fishing experiences are the full day and half day fishing trips from Koh Samui. Serious big game fishermen need to spend at least two days and a night out in the open ocean off Koh Samui where the bigger fish are found at deeper depths. Plan the trip with a friend who has big game fishing experience. Thereafter set things in motion by contacting an experienced boat charter company prior to arriving on the island. Check on onboard facilities, the experience of the crew, location of fishing spots at the particular time of year, the quality of gear, rods, fresh bait, lures and tackle to be provided, the duration and cost of the trip. October to March are said to be the best times for big game fishing off Koh Samui. While enjoying the comforts of Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort & Spa, a luxurious Koh Samui hotel, avid deep sea fishermen have easy access to the fertile fishing grounds of the Gulf of Thailand.

Step 2: Equipment

As a first step learn the techniques to catch big fish species and what equipment is used to lure, hook and land them. As there are different methods to catch each game fish species, the availability of the correct equipment is important to serious game fishermen. When on a trip, they need to know the type of fishing tackle, gear and baits and lures available for jigging and bottom fishing. They also need to have a choice of fishing rods and reels with high capacities, different types of live cut bait and hooks. Ideally the boat should be equipped with a fish finder, GPS or a nautical map. Ensure the boat has the required licenses and safety gear. Appropriate gear is part of the great deep sea fishing experience.

Step 3: The Fishing Grounds

Koh Mudsoom, Koh Rarh, Koh Taen and Wang Bay close to Koh Samui are said to be the best deep sea fishing locations as the sea around these islands are deeper and therefore the bigger fish are to be found here. An experienced and knowledgeable captain and crew are needed to take deep sea fishing enthusiasts to good fishing grounds. Deep sea fishermen should learn to read the signs of an appropriate fishing ground such as the presence of circling sea birds.

Step 4: Fishing Safely

Dress appropriately. Fishermen are liable to get wet and there is the scorching heat and muggy weather to take note of. Bring sunglasses and a hat and wear sun screen and a long sleeved shirt. Valuables have no place on a fishing trip. Some may succumb to sea sickness. Take appropriate precautions well before the trip and stay on deck for the fresh air. Stay hydrated. Listen to the captain as he is in charge. Ask the crew for assistance with the bait and techniques to use to catch and land various types of fish. After casting the line sit patiently as it may take a while to feel a bite. The most important thing is to keep the line straight and not get it entangled in someone else's. Change bait regularly to keep it fresh. Be careful and stay steady when handling fish, especially if they are fighting while being reeled in. Let the crew help to land the fish if it is a particularly large one. Taking out appropriate insurance prior to the trip is a wise move. If the trip involves being away from Koh Samui for a couple of days, check weather reports and navigational charts for the area.

Step 5: Environmental Concerns

Although there are no limits enforced on catches in Thailand with regard to sports fishing, due to declining fish stocks and the rapid growth of sports fishing there is a growing movement towards implementing sustainable fishing practices such as 'catch and release' and the use of barbless hooks to minimize damage to fish.