What Is a Phuket Big Game Fishing Tour?

Big game fishing focuses on larger and stronger offshore species. The boat
travels farther from the coast to search for suitable fishing grounds, often
using trolling, jigging or other sport-fishing techniques.

The experience requires patience, teamwork and an understanding that offshore
fishing conditions can change throughout the day. The captain may alter the
route depending on weather, currents, fish activity and safety considerations.

Why Fish Around Raya Noi and Raya Yai?

Raya Noi and Raya Yai, also known as Racha Noi and Racha Yai, are located south
of Phuket. The waters surrounding these islands include offshore routes used
for recreational and sport-fishing trips.

Raya Yai is closer to Phuket and is often included in general fishing routes.
Raya Noi is farther south and may be visited on longer offshore trips when
weather and sea conditions allow.

• Access to deeper offshore waters
• Potential opportunities to target pelagic fish
• Suitable routes for trolling
• Beautiful open-sea and island scenery
• Experienced local captains familiar with the area

Big Game Fishing Techniques

Offshore Trolling

Trolling uses multiple fishing lines with artificial lures or bait pulled
behind a moving boat. It is one of the primary methods used to search for
pelagic fish over a larger area.

Jigging

Jigging uses weighted artificial lures that are moved vertically through the
water. This technique requires physical effort and may be used when suitable
fish activity is detected.

Popping

Popping uses surface lures designed to create movement and sound. It may be
used near suitable offshore structures or areas where predatory fish are active.

Bottom Fishing

Bottom fishing may be added when conditions permit. It targets fish around
reefs, drop-offs and underwater structures.

Live Bait Fishing

Live bait may be used depending on the selected package, bait availability,
fishing conditions and the captain’s strategy.

Possible Target Species

Potential target species vary significantly according to the month, water
temperature, currents, baitfish, weather and fishing technique.

Depending on seasonal conditions, possible species may include:

• Tuna species
• Wahoo
• Barracuda
• Spanish mackerel
• Trevally species
• Sailfish
• Other offshore pelagic fish

Fishing disclaimer: The species listed above are potential
targets only. The appearance or capture of any particular fish cannot be
guaranteed.

Who Is This Big Game Fishing Tour For?

This offshore fishing experience is suitable for:

• Experienced recreational anglers
• Sport-fishing enthusiasts
• Groups seeking a private fishing charter
• Beginners who want a more challenging fishing experience
• Travelers comfortable spending a full day at sea

Guests who are highly sensitive to waves or prone to severe motion sickness
should consider the expected sea conditions before booking.

Fishing Boat and Equipment

The exact boat and equipment depend on the selected charter. A properly
equipped big game fishing boat may provide:

• Offshore fishing rods and reels
• Trolling equipment
• Artificial lures and fishing bait
• GPS navigation system
• Fish finder or depth sounder
• Rod holders
• Ice box or fish storage area
• Covered seating
• Marine communication equipment
• Life jackets and standard safety equipment
• Toilet, depending on the boat
• Fighting chair, depending on the boat

Boat photographs, specifications and facilities should be confirmed before
booking because different vessels have different layouts and equipment.

Private Charter or Join-In Fishing Tour?

Private Big Game Fishing Charter

A private charter gives your group exclusive use of the boat. It generally
provides more flexibility, direct access to the crew and more room for active
anglers.

Join-In Fishing Tour

A join-in tour allows individual travelers or small groups to share the boat
with other passengers. The route and schedule follow the operator’s standard
program.

Availability of private and join-in arrangements depends on the selected boat
and travel date.

What May Be Included?

Depending on the confirmed fishing package, inclusions may consist of:

• Fishing boat and fuel
• Captain and fishing crew
• Fishing rods, reels and tackle
• Fishing bait or lures
• Lunch or onboard meal
• Drinking water and soft drinks
• Seasonal fruit
• Life jackets and safety equipment
• Hotel transfers within specified areas
• Accident insurance according to policy conditions

Fuel surcharges, national park fees, specialty equipment, alcoholic drinks,
fishing licenses or private transfers may not be included. Check the final
quotation carefully.

What Should Anglers Bring?

• Sun hat or cap
• Polarized sunglasses
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Lightweight long-sleeved clothing
• Non-slip footwear
• Waterproof bag
• Camera or action camera
• Motion-sickness medication
• Personal medication
• Dry change of clothes

Weather and Safety Information

Offshore fishing is strongly affected by wind, waves and marine forecasts.
The captain has final authority to change the route, remain closer to shore,
postpone the trip or cancel the tour when conditions are unsafe.

Guests must listen to the safety briefing and follow crew instructions,
particularly when trolling lines are active or when another guest is fighting
a fish.

• Do not touch active fishing lines without permission.
• Keep clear of hooks, lures and moving equipment.
• Wear a life jacket when instructed.
• Inform the crew about medical conditions before departure.
• Children must remain under close adult supervision.

Is Catch and Release Available?

Catch-and-release practices depend on the species, condition of the fish,
local regulations and the operator’s policy. Guests who prefer catch and
release should inform the operator and captain before departure.

Protected species and undersized fish must be handled according to applicable
regulations and crew instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can beginners join a Phuket big game fishing tour?

Yes. Beginners can join when they are comfortable with a full-day offshore
trip. The crew can explain the equipment and basic fishing procedures.

Will the boat visit both Raya Noi and Raya Yai?

The planned route may include both islands, but the final route depends on the
weather, sea conditions, fishing activity, boat speed and selected package.

Is big game fishing available throughout the year?

Tours may operate during different periods of the year, but weather, sea
conditions and target species vary seasonally. Some departures may be
postponed during unsafe conditions.

Is fishing equipment included?

Standard equipment is usually included, but the exact rods, reels, tackle and
lures depend on the boat and package. Confirm the equipment list before booking.

Can the operator guarantee a big fish?

No. No responsible fishing operator can guarantee a specific catch. Fishing
results depend on natural conditions and fish activity.

Can non-fishing companions join?

Non-fishing companions may join when passenger space is available. They should
be comfortable spending an extended period offshore.

What happens when the weather is unsuitable?

The captain or operator may adjust the route, reschedule the trip or cancel the
departure according to safety conditions and the booking policy.