Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities and Places for Fishing in the Andaman Islands
- Tourist Circuits for Anglers
- Signature Fishing Activities and Species
- Festivals and Seasonal Events
- Sample Itineraries
- Budget and Cost Guide
- Practical Travel Information
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Tips for Different Travelers
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Powder-blue seas, remote reefs, and powerful pelagics make the Andaman Islands one of Asia’s most exciting sport-fishing frontiers. From popping for giant trevally around volcanic drop-offs to jigging deep channels for dogtooth tuna, these islands offer action-packed days on the water and castaway sunsets on palm-lined beaches. This guide covers where to fish, when to go, what it costs, how to get there, and how to plan a legal, sustainable, and unforgettable fishing trip in the Andamans.
Top Cities and Places for Fishing in the Andaman Islands
1) Port Blair (South Andaman)
- Why it’s great: Main gateway with the largest charter fleet, protected leeward options on windy days.
- Target zones: Around Rutland, Cinque (outside protected boundaries), passage channels, offshore seamounts.
- Species: Giant trevally (GT), dogtooth tuna, Spanish mackerel, wahoo, sailfish (seasonal).
2) Havelock Island / Swaraj Dweep
- Why it’s great: Quick access to reefs, pinnacles, and bluewater edges; excellent for popping and jigging.
- Considerations: Several nearby islands lie within protected parks—operators will steer to legal grounds.
3) Neil Island / Shaheed Dweep
- Why it’s great: Quieter base with shorter runs to reefy terrain and channels.
- Best for: Mixed days—light trolling for mahi-mahi and wahoo plus jigging for groupers and snapper.
4) Long Island and North Button Vicinity
- Why it’s great: Fewer boats, productive drop-offs; adventure feel.
- Access: Via Port Blair–Rangat–Long Island; charters often arranged privately.
5) Little Andaman (Hut Bay)
- Why it’s great: Remote, raw fisheries with less pressure; potential for large GT.
- Considerations: Sea conditions can be challenging; limited tourism infrastructure.
Note: Some areas around marine national parks and tribal reserves are strictly no-fishing. Always confirm legal zones with a licensed operator.
Tourist Circuits for Anglers
Classic South Andaman Circuit (3–5 days)
- Base: Port Blair
- Typical route: Port Blair – Rutland waters – outer reefs near Cinque (respecting protected boundaries) – offshore pinnacles.
- Focus: GT popping, dogtooth jigging, high-speed trolling for wahoo.
Havelock Bluewater Circuit (3–4 days)
- Base: Havelock
- Typical route: Eastern reef edges – channel drop-offs – bluewater rips when currents align.
- Focus: Surface stickbaits and poppers for GT; micro to heavy jigging for reef species.
Exploratory Neil–Long Island Circuit (4–6 days)
- Base: Neil or Long Island (via Rangat)
- Typical route: Legal reefs and ledges on continental shelf edges.
- Focus: Mixed bag opportunities with fewer boats around.
Important: Many “Button Islands” and certain fringing reefs fall under marine parks where fishing is prohibited. Circuits must be tailored to permitted waters only.
Signature Fishing Activities and Species
Primary Techniques
- Popping and Stickbaiting: For GT, coral trout; heavy gear (PE6–PE10), 18–25 kg drag setups.
- Vertical and Slow-Pitch Jigging: For dogtooth tuna, amberjack, grouper, snapper; 100–300 g jigs common.
- Trolling: For wahoo, mahi-mahi, sailfish, occasional marlin; high-speed lures and skirted baits.
- Live Bait/Drift: Where legal and ethical; check operator policy.
- Fly Fishing: Niche and guide-dependent; sight-casting to trevally on sand flats when conditions allow.
Target Species
- Giant trevally (GT)
- Dogtooth tuna
- Wahoo, Spanish mackerel
- Mahi-mahi (dorado), sailfish, occasional marlin
- Groupers (various), red snapper, coral trout
Best Time to Fish
- Peak season: November to April (calmer seas, clearer water, consistent action).
- Shoulder: October and early May (watch forecasts; variable winds).
- Monsoon: Late May to September (rough seas; limited or suspended charters).
Sustainability and Ethics
- Catch-and-release for sport species (GT, sailfish) with barbless or circle hooks.
- Minimize fight and handling time; keep fish in water for photos where possible.
- No fishing in marine parks or tribal reserve zones; respect operator guidance.
- Never buy coral, shells, or turtle products; they are protected.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
- Island Tourism Festival (typically January, Port Blair): Cultural performances, food fairs, exhibitions.
- Beach Festivals (varied dates): Local music and food on popular beaches.
- Netaji Subhash Mela (January, various locations): Local fairs and cultural programs.
These events add color to a fishing holiday, but they may increase demand for ferries and rooms—book ahead.
Sample Itineraries
3-Day Quick Cast (Port Blair Base)
- Day 1: Arrive Port Blair; evening gear check, local seafood dinner.
- Day 2: Full-day charter to Rutland channels; GT popping and jigging.
- Day 3: Half-day troll for wahoo/mahi; fly out in the evening.
5-Day Mixed Action (Havelock Focus)
- Day 1: Fly into Port Blair; ferry to Havelock; sunset beach walk.
- Day 2–3: Full-day popping/jigging on outer reefs.
- Day 4: Bluewater troll for pelagics; late afternoon snorkel or rest.
- Day 5: Buffer day for weather or light inshore session; ferry back.
7-Day Explorer (Neil + Long Island)
- Day 1: Port Blair to Neil; set up with operator.
- Day 2–3: Reef edges and channels near Neil (legal zones).
- Day 4: Transit to Long Island via Rangat.
- Day 5–6: Offshore ledges near Long Island; target dogtooth and amberjack.
- Day 7: Return to Port Blair; depart.
Budget and Cost Guide
- Private full-day charter: INR 45,000–100,000 per boat (size, fuel distance, gear inclusion vary).
- Shared boat (when available): INR 10,000–25,000 per person per day.
- Gear rental: INR 1,500–3,500 per rod/reel per day; terminal tackle extra.
- Permits/park fees: INR 500–1,500 depending on area and nationality.
- Accommodation:
- Budget guesthouses: INR 1,500–3,000 per night.
- Mid-range resorts: INR 3,500–8,000 per night.
- Upscale beachfront: INR 9,000–18,000+ per night.
- Meals: INR 400–1,200 per person per meal (seafood higher).
- Ferries: Government ferries (low cost), private catamarans typically INR 1,200–3,000 one-way.
- Tipping crew: 5–10% of charter cost at your discretion.
Prices are indicative and fluctuate with season, boat class, and fuel. Always confirm inclusions: fuel cap, guide ratio, lunch, drinking water, ice, and tackle.
Practical Travel Information
How to Reach
- By Air: Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Port Blair, from Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi, and other major Indian cities.
- By Sea: Periodic passenger ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair (2–3 days; limited schedules).
- Inter-island Transfers: Government ferries and private fast ferries connect Port Blair with Havelock and Neil. Book early in peak season.
Where to Stay
- Port Blair: Best logistics, widest charter choice; good for short trips and weather flexibility.
- Havelock: Beach resorts with quick access to fishing grounds; popular for couples and friends.
- Neil: Quieter stays; fewer boats—prearrange charters.
- Long Island/Little Andaman: Limited options; suitable for experienced anglers seeking remoteness.
Permits and Regulations
- Entry: Indians do not require a Restricted Area Permit for the main islands. Foreign nationals typically receive permits on arrival for authorized areas.
- Fishing Legality: Recreational/sport fishing is allowed only in permitted zones and preferably with licensed operators. No fishing in marine national parks, sanctuaries, or tribal reserve areas.
- Environment: Carry no single-use plastics on boats; do not collect shells/coral; follow crew safety briefings.
- Documentation: Carry passport/ID, e-tickets, ferry bookings, and charter confirmations.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Seafood specialties: Grilled fish, crab, lobster (ask about sustainable sourcing).
- Regional flavors: Bengali thalis, South Indian meals, coastal curries, and fresh coconut-based dishes.
- Hydration: Tropical heat is strong—drink plenty of water; carry electrolyte sachets on boats.
Shopping
- What to buy: Spices, coconut/jute handicrafts, local art.
- What to avoid: Coral, shells, turtle products—illegal and harmful to reefs.
Culture
- Indigenous protection: Do not attempt to visit or photograph tribal reserves; strictly prohibited.
- Beach etiquette: Keep beaches clean; dress modestly in town areas.
Tips for Different Travelers
Families
- Opt for half-day or 6-hour charters; calmer leeward routes.
- Pack kids’ PFDs if preferred; carry snacks, sun protection, and seasickness meds.
Honeymooners/Couples
- Choose private boats for flexibility; combine a morning popping session with a sunset cruise.
- Book beachfront stays on Havelock for post-fishing relaxation.
Friends/Groups
- Split a larger center-console to reduce per-person cost.
- Bring backup terminal tackle; reef fish can be gear-taxing.
Packing Essentials
- Sun protection: UPF clothing, neck gaiter, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen.
- Boat wear: Non-marking deck shoes, quick-dry shorts, lightweight rain jacket.
- Tackle add-ons: Leaders (120–200 lb for GT), split rings/swivels, assist hooks, spare poppers/jigs.
- Health: Motion-sickness tablets, basic first-aid, waterproof phone pouch.
Safety
- Listen to the skipper; wear PFDs in rough weather.
- Mind treble hooks and gaffs; use de-hookers and glove up for releases.
- Respect weather calls—postpone rather than risk unsafe seas.
FAQs
Q: What is the best month for a fishing trip to the Andamans?
A: November to April offers the calmest seas and most consistent action. October and early May can work with stable forecasts.
Q: Do I need to bring my own gear?
A: Many charters provide heavy popping and jigging setups for a fee. Serious anglers often bring their own rods, reels, and terminal tackle, and rent only heavy gear as backup.
Q: Is catch-and-release mandatory?
A: It is strongly encouraged for sport species like GT and sailfish. Some operators allow limited harvest of table species where legal. Always follow local regulations and skipper guidance.
Q: Can beginners try GT popping?
A: Yes, but it’s physically demanding. Beginners might mix lighter sessions (trolling, slow-pitch) with shorter popping windows to manage fatigue.
Q: Are there non-fishing activities for companions?
A: Absolutely—snorkeling, beach days, light trekking, scuba diving, and island tours around Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil.
Conclusion
The Andaman Islands deliver world-class saltwater sport fishing set against remote, pristine scenery. Base yourself in Port Blair, Havelock, or Neil, time your trip between November and April, and book a licensed operator who prioritizes safety and sustainability. With smart packing, realistic budgets, and flexible itineraries, anglers of all levels can experience powerful strikes, explosive topwater eats, and the satisfaction of responsible catch-and-release in one of the Indian Ocean’s most compelling fisheries.
