Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Top Cities and Places in North Andaman for Fishing
- Tourist Circuits and Suggested Zones
- Activities: Types of Fishing and On-Water Experiences
- Festivals and Events
- Sample Itineraries (3–7 days)
- Budget Tips and Estimated Costs
- How to Reach North Andaman
- Accommodation Options
- Local Food, Culture, and Shopping
- Practical Tips for Fishing Trips
- Traveler-Specific Advice
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
North Andaman is the wild, far-flung end of India’s Andaman archipelago, where emerald islands meet fish-rich channels and reef edges. For anglers, these waters are legendary—think giant trevally smashing surface lures, dogtooth tuna on metal jigs, and reef bruisers testing tackle to the limit. Base yourself around Diglipur and Mayabunder to access sandbar flats, jagged pinnacles, and offshore drop-offs that deliver heart-in-mouth strikes and postcard scenery in equal measure.
Top Cities and Places in North Andaman for Fishing
Diglipur and Aerial Bay
- Primary launch point for sportfishing charters in the far north.
- Access to reefs, channels, and sandbars around Ross & Smith and nearby islets.
- Good mix of popping, stickbaiting, and jigging grounds within day-trip range.
Mayabunder
- Mid-north base with sheltered waters and mangrove-lined creeks.
- Inshore light-tackle options plus access to nearby reef edges for GT and coral trout.
Kalipur, Ramnagar, and Lamiya Bay
- Beaches near Diglipur that serve as rest-and-recover bases after long days on the water.
- Occasional shore-casting windows at dawn/dusk in suitable conditions.
Saddle Peak National Park (non-fishing)
- Highest point in Andaman Islands; great for a rest day hike and panoramic views.
Tourist Circuits and Suggested Zones
North Andaman Fishing Circuit (4–6 days)
- Base: Diglipur (Aerial Bay).
- Zones: Reef edges, channel mouths, and offshore humps reachable in 1–2 hours.
- Style: 2–3 full days GT popping/stickbaiting + 1–2 days jigging/trolling depending on weather.
Mid-North Explorer (3–4 days)
- Base: Mayabunder.
- Zones: Protected bays for light tackle; outer reefs for half- or full-day GT sessions.
- Combine with: Karmatang Beach and mangrove cruises on non-fishing afternoons.
Rest-Day and Non-Fishing Add-ons
- Ross & Smith sandbar walk (permit controlled; check local rules).
- Alfred Caves (seasonal), Saddle Peak hike, turtle spotting in season (Ramnagar/Karmatang).
Note: Exact fishing coordinates are typically guarded by charter operators; expect your skipper to choose grounds based on tides, wind, and swell.
Activities: Types of Fishing and On-Water Experiences
Prime Season and Weather
- Best overall: November to April (calmer seas, clearer water).
- Shoulder: October and May (watch wind/swell windows; early/late monsoon transitions).
- Avoid: Southwest monsoon June–September due to rough seas and frequent rain.
GT Popping and Stickbaiting
- Target: Giant Trevally (GT), bluefin trevally, red bass, coral trout.
- Tackle: PE 6–8 popping rods, 14000–18000 size reels, 80–100 lb braid, 120–200 lb leader.
- Lures: 120–200 g poppers, floating/sinking stickbaits with heavy single hooks.
Deep Jigging
- Target: Dogtooth tuna, amberjack, grouper, snapper.
- Tackle: PE 4–6 jigging setups, 120–250 g jigs (match current and depth).
- Technique: Fast/slow pitch variations over pinnacles and drop-offs.
Light Tackle Inshore
- Target: Queenfish, barracuda, small trevallies, mangrove jack.
- Great for: Half-days, families, and first-timers; calmer waters.
Trolling and Teasers
- Supplementary method to cover water between spots; may raise wahoo, tuna, or mackerel.
Boats and Crew
- Typical: 23–30 ft center consoles with shade, VHF, safety kit; 2–3 anglers optimal.
- Charters provide: Guide/skipper, fuel, ice, often tackle and lures (confirm inclusions).
Permits and Regulations
- Recreational angling is permitted only outside protected areas and tribal reserves.
- Charter operators usually manage local permits and police/Fisheries notifications.
- Conservation: Practice catch-and-release for GT and reef predators; do not target sharks. Spearfishing and taking corals are prohibited.
- Always carry photo ID; respect no-go zones and buffer distances around sensitive areas.
Festivals and Events
- Island Tourism Festival (primarily in Port Blair, Jan/Feb most years): Cultural shows and food—useful if transiting through the capital.
- Local fairs and beach clean-up drives sometimes occur around Mayabunder and Diglipur with community participation.
If you are seeking fishing-specific tournaments in North Andaman: Information not available.
Sample Itineraries (3–7 days)
3-Day “First Cast” (Mayabunder Base)
- Day 1: Arrive Mayabunder; PM light-tackle session in sheltered bay.
- Day 2: Full-day GT popping on nearby reef edges; sunset beach stroll at Karmatang.
- Day 3: Half-day jigging; transfer back towards Port Blair.
5-Day “GT and Jigs” (Diglipur Base)
- Day 1: Reach Diglipur; gear check and short shake-down cast.
- Day 2–3: Full-day popping/stickbaiting across channels and points.
- Day 4: Deep jigging over offshore humps; optional evening shore cast (conditions permitting).
- Day 5: Recovery morning; Ross & Smith sandbar walk; depart.
7-Day “North Andaman Explorer”
- 4 fishing days split between popping and jigging based on tides.
- 1 inshore family-friendly light-tackle day.
- 2 rest/land days for Saddle Peak hike, beach time, and local dining.
Budget Tips and Estimated Costs
Estimated Costs (per day, indicative)
- Private fishing charter (2–3 anglers): INR 45,000–70,000 (USD 540–850) depending on boat size, fuel run, and tackle inclusions.
- Shared/seat-in-boat options: INR 18,000–30,000 (USD 215–365) per angler when available.
- Accommodation:
- Budget guesthouses/homestays: INR 1,500–3,000 (USD 18–36).
- Mid-range resorts/government lodges: INR 3,500–7,000 (USD 42–85).
- Meals: INR 600–1,200 (USD 7–14) per person/day in small eateries.
- Surface transfers Port Blair–Diglipur: INR 1,200–12,000 (USD 15–145) depending on bus vs. private vehicle.
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel in a group of 2–3 to split charter costs efficiently.
- Bring favorite lures/terminals; remote mark-ups can be high and stock limited.
- Combine light-tackle inshore days with one or two heavy offshore days to balance budget and fatigue.
- Book shoulder months (Oct/May) when seas allow; accommodation is often cheaper.
How to Reach North Andaman
- Fly to Port Blair (IXZ) from major Indian cities.
- Overland to the north via Andaman Trunk Road:
- Port Blair → Rangat → Mayabunder → Diglipur by government or private bus, shared cabs, or hired cars.
- Typical travel time to Diglipur: 8–10 hours depending on road/ferry timings.
- Sea options: Limited government ferries may connect Port Blair with Mayabunder/Diglipur on certain schedules; verify locally.
- Helicopter services are limited, weather-dependent, and primarily for residents/emergencies.
Note: Road convoys and check-post rules can change; carry valid photo ID and plan buffer time for inter-island vehicle ferries.
Accommodation Options
- Diglipur: Mix of mid-range beach resorts, government-run lodges, and simple guesthouses near Kalipur/Ramnagar.
- Mayabunder: Small hotels and homestays around the jetty and Karmatang area.
- What to look for:
- Early breakfast/packed lunches for fishing days.
- Freezer/ice access for drinks (not for keeping fish—practice responsible catch policies).
- Proximity to pickup points (Aerial Bay/jetty).
Local Food, Culture, and Shopping
Food
- Fresh seafood: Grilled fish, crab, and coconut-based curries.
- Cuisine influences: Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Burmese, and indigenous island styles.
- Try: Fish thali, prawn masala, banana flower cutlets, and tropical fruits.
Culture
- Laid-back island rhythm; early starts and early nights suit fishing schedules.
- Respect local customs; dress modestly in villages and around jetties.
Shopping
- Handicrafts, spices, and locally made snacks.
- Avoid buying shells/coral; collection and trade are restricted by law.
Practical Tips for Fishing Trips
Packing List
- Sun defense: Wide-brim hat, UV buff, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen.
- Clothing: Quick-dry long sleeves, deck shoes, light rain shell.
- Health: Seasickness tablets, basic first-aid, hydration salts.
- Tackle highlights (if bringing your own): PE 6–8 popping setup, PE 4–6 jigging setup, 120–200 g poppers, 120–200 mm stickbaits, 120–250 g jigs, 120–200 lb leaders, solid/split rings, heavy singles.
Safety and Etiquette
- Confirm boat safety gear (life jackets, VHF, flares) and weather window with your skipper.
- Barbless or crushed-barb hooks help with safe releases.
- Keep beaches and boats litter-free; pack out all plastics.
Permits and Ethics
- Use licensed charters; they align with local Fisheries rules and no-go zones.
- No entry into tribal reserves; drones may be restricted—check locally.
- Keep only what you can eat the same day where allowed; otherwise release fish promptly.
Traveler-Specific Advice
Families
- Choose half-day inshore trips with calmer waters and lighter tackle.
- Build in beach time at Karmatang or Ross & Smith for non-anglers.
Honeymooners
- Opt for private charters with flexible start times and sunset beach walks.
- Combine one heavy GT day with relaxed snorkel/light-tackle sessions.
Friends/Groups
- Book multi-day private charters; rotate positions on the bow to stay fresh.
- Consider two boats for groups of 4–6 to keep everyone actively fishing.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time for fishing in North Andaman?
A: November to April offers the most reliable seas and action. October and May can be productive with suitable weather windows, while the June–September monsoon is generally unsuitable.
Q: Do I need a special permit to fish?
A: Licensed charter operators typically arrange necessary permissions and advise on open zones. Always carry photo ID and avoid protected areas and tribal reserves.
Q: What species can I expect?
A: Giant trevally, bluefin trevally, coral trout, red bass, dogtooth tuna, various snappers and groupers, and occasional pelagics like wahoo or mackerel.
Q: Can beginners try GT popping?
A: Yes, but GT popping is physically demanding. Beginners should start with shorter sessions or light-tackle inshore and build up to heavier gear with skipper guidance.
Q: Is gear available locally?
A: Most charters provide essential tackle, but supplies are limited in the far north. Bring your preferred lures, terminals, and spares.
Conclusion
North Andaman is a bucket-list destination for anglers seeking raw, unpressured waters and diverse tropical game fish. Base yourself around Diglipur or Mayabunder to access reef edges, channels, and offshore humps that suit popping, stickbaiting, jigging, and light-tackle sessions. Plan between November and April, travel with a licensed charter that understands permits and protected zones, and pack thoughtfully for sun, salt, and safety. Balanced with quiet beaches, simple island cuisine, and a relaxed pace, a fishing trip here delivers both serious sport and a memorable island escape.
