Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Importance
- Best Time to Visit for Fishing
- Top Fishing Experiences and Things To Do
- How to Reach Havelock Island
- Estimated Costs and Budget
- Accommodation Options
- Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
- Nearby Attractions
- Regulations, Sustainability and Permits
- Travel Tips and Safety
- Traveler-Specific Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Thinking of reeling in an unforgettable island adventure? Fishing trips in Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Andaman & Nicobar Islands, are among India’s finest saltwater experiences. With gin-clear waters, healthy reefs, and pelagic action offshore, anglers come for giant trevally (GT), tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, barracuda, and the occasional sailfish or marlin. Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned popper-and-jigging enthusiast, Havelock offers half-day family outings, full-day big-game charters, and everything in between.
History and Importance
Havelock’s reputation as an Indian game-fishing hotspot grew in the early 2000s as charter operators began exploring the Andaman Sea’s unpressured reefs and offshore seamounts. The island’s strategic location between deep channels and coral systems attracts apex predators, making it ideal for sport fishing.
Today, responsible catch-and-release practices for GT and billfish are common among licensed charters. Fishing contributes to local livelihoods through guiding, boat operations, and hospitality services, while promoting ocean stewardship and low-impact tourism.
Best Time to Visit for Fishing
- Peak season: November to April – the calmest seas and best visibility. Prime for GT (popping), jigging, and pelagics.
- Shoulder: October and May – can be excellent, with some wind or occasional showers.
- Monsoon: June to September – rough seas and frequent cancellations; fishing trips are limited.
Target species by season (indicative):
- Giant trevally (GT): Dec–Apr
- Tuna (yellowfin/skipjack): Year-round, best Jan–Apr
- Wahoo, mahi-mahi, sailfish: Feb–Apr (variable)
- Reef species (coral trout, jobfish, snapper): Most of the dry season
Top Fishing Experiences and Things To Do
Signature Techniques
- Popping for GT: Surface strikes near reef edges and current lines; heavy tackle and big poppers required.
- Jigging: Vertical jigging over drop-offs for dogtooth tuna, amberjack, snapper, and jobfish.
- Trolling: Offshore runs for wahoo, mahi-mahi, tuna, and billfish in season.
- Bottom fishing: Family-friendly option for tasty reef species (respect local limits and guidance).
Typical Day on the Water
- Early start from Havelock jetty (Govind Nagar area).
- Briefing on safety, gear, and target areas depending on tides and wind.
- Mix of techniques through the day; lunch and hydration onboard.
- Afternoon return; weigh/measure, photos, and catch handling per charter policy.
What’s Usually Included
- Licensed boat, captain, and crew
- Tackle and lures (for premium popping/jigging, some anglers bring personal gear)
- Fuel, ice, basic refreshments; lunch on full-day trips
- Safety gear (life jackets) and first aid
Tip: Confirm gear quality, lure losses policy, and whether fish can be kept (many charters prioritize catch-and-release for sport species).
Beyond Fishing
- Intro dive or snorkel on non-fishing days at Nemo Reef or Lighthouse (where permitted).
- Sunset beaches: Radhanagar (Beach No. 7) for post-fishing relaxation.
- Kayaking in mangroves and bioluminescence tours (seasonal).
How to Reach Havelock Island
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ): Direct flights from major Indian cities like Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi (seasonal). International travelers usually connect via mainland India.
- Ferry to Havelock (Swaraj Dweep):
- Private and government ferries; journey takes ~1.5–2.5 hours depending on vessel.
- Advance booking recommended in peak season.
- Sea conditions can affect schedules; plan buffer time for onward travel.
- Local transport: Taxis, rental scooters, and shared jeeps on the island; roads are simple and distances short.
Estimated Costs and Budget
- Private charter (full day): INR 30,000–60,000+ per boat, depending on size, engine, and technique focus.
- Private charter (half day): INR 20,000–35,000 per boat.
- Shared trips: INR 6,000–12,000 per person (availability varies by season).
- Gear/lure policy: Premium popping/jigging setups may carry a surcharge or replacement cost for lost lures (clarify in advance).
- Permits/jetty fees: Often included; if not, budget INR 300–1,500 per person.
- Ferry tickets: INR 500–1,500 one way (class and operator dependent).
- Accommodation: INR 1,500–30,000+ per night, from budget stays to luxury beachfront resorts.
- Meals: INR 250–1,500 per person per meal, depending on venue.
Prices fluctuate by season and demand; confirm inclusions (fuel, refreshments, taxes) before booking.
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Guesthouses and backpacker hostels around Govind Nagar and Vijaynagar beaches.
- Mid-range: Beach cottages and boutique stays with on-site cafes; convenient for early charter departures.
- Luxury: High-end eco-resorts near Radhanagar for privacy and post-fishing downtime.
Angler tip: Choose stays close to your operator’s jetty for smooth morning check-ins.
Local Experiences: Food, Shopping, Culture
Food
- Fresh seafood grills (fish, crab, lobster) and island-style curries.
- Bengali and South Indian influences; plenty of vegetarian options.
- Try coconut-based preparations and local fruit smoothies; stay hydrated.
Shopping
- Handmade crafts, coconut products, and local textiles.
- Avoid: Coral, shells, and marine life souvenirs—collection and export are restricted.
Culture
- Unhurried island life; early nights and quiet beaches.
- Tourism coexists with fishing and small-scale agriculture—respect local customs and the environment.
Nearby Attractions
- Radhanagar Beach (Beach No. 7): Famous sunsets and powdery sands.
- Elephanta Beach: Snorkeling and water sports in permitted zones.
- Kalapathar Beach: Serene sunrise views and rocky shorelines.
- Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep): Day trips for quiet beaches and relaxed cafes.
Regulations, Sustainability and Permits
- Licensed operators only: Book charters with proper licenses and experienced crews who follow designated fishing zones.
- Protected areas: No fishing inside marine parks, near sensitive reefs, or restricted beaches. Your captain will advise boundaries.
- Catch-and-release: Encouraged for GT and billfish; keep only what’s permitted and sustainable.
- Prohibited practices: Spearfishing, use of explosives/poisons, and collection of corals/shells are illegal.
- Permits: Individual angler permits are typically not required when you fish with a licensed charter; operators handle any necessary permissions and jetty clearances.
Travel Tips and Safety
- Weather & seas: Check forecasts; trips may reschedule due to wind or swell.
- Health: Seasickness tablets, sun protection (hat, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen), and plenty of water.
- Gear: Charters include tackle; heavy popping/jigging gear users may prefer bringing personal setups.
- Insurance: Consider travel insurance that covers adventure sports and boating.
- Connectivity & cash: Mobile data can be patchy; carry some cash as ATMs/UPI may be unreliable.
- Safety: Wear life jackets when advised; follow crew instructions; keep decks tidy to avoid hooks underfoot.
- Environment: Use reusable bottles; do not litter; respect wildlife.
What to Pack for a Fishing Trip
- Light, quick-dry clothing; long-sleeve sun shirt
- Non-marking deck shoes or sandals with grip
- Polarized sunglasses (amber/green lenses work well)
- Buff/neck gaiter, cap, and reef-safe sunscreen
- Dry bag for phone, camera, and documents
- Personal meds and motion sickness remedies
- If bringing gear: 80–120 lb popping setup, 50–80 lb jigging setup, split-ring pliers, leaders, and favorite lures
Traveler-Specific Tips
Families
- Choose calm-weather half-day outings and larger boats with shade and onboard restroom.
- Combine with snorkel or a relaxed beach afternoon at Radhanagar.
Honeymooners
- Opt for a private charter and time your return for sunset at Radhanagar Beach.
- Request light-tackle or trolling for a gentler first experience together.
Friends/Groups
- Book full-day popping/jigging charters; rotate anglers to manage fatigue.
- Bring GoPro/action cams and agree on a catch-and-release photo protocol for quick, safe releases.
FAQs
Q: Do I need prior fishing experience to book a trip in Havelock?
A: No. Beginners are welcome. Crews guide you through basics, and there are easy options like trolling or bottom fishing. Seasoned anglers can request specialized popping/jigging.
Q: Can I keep the fish I catch?
A: Many charters practice catch-and-release for sport species like GT and billfish. Some edible species may be kept within sustainable limits, subject to captain’s policy and local rules.
Q: What happens if the weather is rough?
A: Safety comes first. Trips may be rescheduled or canceled with refunds/credits according to the operator’s policy. Keep a buffer day in your itinerary.
Q: Is fishing allowed near popular beaches?
A: Generally no—protected reefs and swimming zones are off-limits. Licensed operators take you to designated fishing grounds away from these areas.
Q: What’s the best month for GT in Havelock?
A: Typically December to April offers the most consistent GT action, with conditions varying by tides and weather.
Conclusion
Havelock Island blends pristine Andaman seascapes with world-class sport fishing. Plan for the dry-season window, choose a licensed charter, and balance big-game pursuits with the island’s gentle rhythms—sunsets at Radhanagar, fresh seafood, and easy beach days. With the right timing and safety-first mindset, your Havelock fishing trip can be both thrilling and sustainably mindful.
