Thailand, known for its vibrant culture, tropical beaches, and exotic cuisine, is also a world-class fishing destination. With access to both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, the country offers a rich variety of marine life, from ferocious Giant Trevally and Barracuda to majestic Sailfish and hard-fighting Tuna. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a curious beginner, these top fishing destinations in Thailand will deliver unforgettable experiences in stunning tropical settings.
1. Phuket – The Saltwater Fishing Capital of Thailand
Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is a premier hub for big-game saltwater fishing. The deep waters of the Andaman Sea surrounding Phuket teem with a wide range of marine species. Numerous professional charters depart from Chalong Bay and Patong, offering half-day, full-day, or even multi-day fishing trips.
- Best for: Sailfish, Dorado (Mahi-Mahi), Giant Trevally, Barracuda, Tuna, Queenfish
- Season: November to April (high season, best sea conditions)
- Experience highlight: Multi-day liveaboard trips to the Similan Islands for remote reef fishing
- Techniques: Trolling, jigging, popping, bottom fishing
Phuket offers the perfect blend of big fish, professional charters, and post-fishing luxury—with world-class resorts, nightlife, and beaches nearby.
2. Krabi – Untouched Waters and Diverse Marine Life
Located just south of Phuket, Krabi offers a more tranquil setting with equally exciting fishing opportunities. The waters off Krabi are less trafficked, offering anglers access to abundant fish stocks and pristine coral reefs.
- Best for: Grouper, Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, King Mackerel
- Season: Year-round (best months: November to March)
- Top locations: Ao Nang, Railay Beach, Phi Phi Islands
- Fishing style: Live bait drifting, deep sea bottom fishing, reef casting
Krabi is perfect for anglers who want great marine life diversity in a more relaxed, scenic environment.
3. Koh Samui – Tropical Island Fishing in the Gulf of Thailand
Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is another top destination known for inshore and offshore fishing. Surrounded by coral reefs and rich marine habitats, Koh Samui provides plenty of action for both experienced and casual anglers.
- Best for: Barracuda, Trevally, Snapper, Grouper, Sailfish
- Season: February to October
- Fishing areas: Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Ang Thong Marine Park
- Tactics: Handlining, trolling, casting
Bonus: The island’s calm waters make it ideal for family fishing trips and first-time anglers seeking an easy introduction to marine fishing.
4. Pattaya – Accessible Game Fishing Near Bangkok
Located just two hours from Bangkok, Pattaya is ideal for travelers looking for convenient access to saltwater fishing. Despite being a bustling tourist city, Pattaya offers well-equipped charters that venture into the Gulf of Thailand for an exciting range of species.
- Best for: Queenfish, Barracuda, Grouper, Cobia
- Season: Year-round (best fishing from November to May)
- Departure points: Bali Hai Pier, Bang Saray, Samae San
- Fishing method: Jigging, trolling, deep bottom fishing
Pattaya is perfect for day trips, with the added bonus of vibrant nightlife and urban comfort.
5. Similan Islands – Remote and Rugged Fishing Frontier
The Similan Islands, a protected marine national park off the west coast of Thailand, are regarded as one of the most pristine fishing locations in Southeast Asia. The area is typically accessible only via liveaboard fishing charters, ensuring low fishing pressure and massive biodiversity.
- Best for: Sailfish, Marlin, Wahoo, Tuna, Giant Trevally
- Season: November to May (park open to visitors)
- Experience highlight: Multi-day charters with overnight anchorage and reef fishing
- Fishing type: Big-game trolling, topwater popping, speed jigging
For serious anglers, the Similan Islands offer world-class sportfishing with minimal tourist interference, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular coral reef scenery.
Bonus: Freshwater Fishing in Thailand for Exotic Species
While this article focuses on marine life, Thailand is also home to some of the best freshwater fishing lakes stocked with exotic species like Mekong Catfish, Arapaima, Giant Snakehead, and Siamese Carp.
- Best freshwater lakes: Bungsamran Lake (Bangkok), Greenfield Valley (Hua Hin), Palm Tree Lagoon (Ratchaburi)
- Experience highlight: Land fish weighing over 100 kg using local techniques and bait
These lakes are managed and stocked, offering guaranteed action and the chance to fight some of the world’s largest freshwater fish.
Top Marine Fish Species in Thailand
| Fish Species | Where to Catch | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sailfish | Phuket, Similan Islands | Nov – Apr |
| Giant Trevally | Koh Samui, Similan, Krabi | Year-round |
| Spanish Mackerel | Krabi, Pattaya, Koh Tao | Dec – Apr |
| Barracuda | Everywhere (Samui, Phuket, Krabi) | All year |
| Snapper & Grouper | Krabi, Samui, Pattaya | All year |
| Tuna & Wahoo | Similan Islands | Nov – May |
Conclusion: Thailand is a Marine Fishing Gem
With two rich coasts offering incredible marine biodiversity, warm tropical weather, and well-developed tourist infrastructure, Thailand is an essential stop for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. Whether you’re hunting game fish in remote waters or enjoying a casual day trip near a beach town, Thailand provides a perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and rich marine life.
Plan your trip to one of these top 5 fishing destinations in Thailand, and cast your line into some of the most thrilling waters in Southeast Asia.