Game fishing in Andaman is a slow, rewarding way to enjoy the sea. Instead of diving in, you head out on a boat, drop a line over deep blue water and wait for a strike from a powerful ocean fish. It suits friends, couples and families who prefer a calm day on the water to a fast water sport. This guide covers where the trips go, what you might catch, the best season, the rules to know and how to add a fishing trip to your Andaman tour packages.

What is game fishing?

Game fishing, also called sport fishing, means catching large fish with a rod and line for the challenge rather than for commercial gain. In the Andamans the most common style is trolling: the boat moves slowly while baited lines trail behind it, and you reel in when a fish bites.

Where to go game fishing in Andaman

Port Blair

Most trips start from the city, so it is the easiest option if you are short on time. See our Port Blair guide.

Havelock Island

Boats from Havelock head into open water away from the busy tourist routes. Read our Havelock Island guide.

The route and fishing zones depend on weather, sea conditions and local rules. Your skipper decides on the day.

What fish can you catch?

Catches vary by season and location, but anglers commonly target giant trevally, barracuda and tuna, along with other reef and open-water species. Nothing is guaranteed. Part of the fun of game fishing is that every trip is different.

How a game fishing trip works

1. Pick-up and briefing: you meet the crew, get a safety talk and learn how to hold the rod and reel.
2. Boat ride: the boat moves away from the harbour towards deeper water.
3. Fishing: lines are set and the crew helps you when a fish bites. Beginners get hands-on guidance.
4. Return: you head back to the jetty, usually after a few hours. Exact duration depends on the package you choose.

Who can go game fishing?

• Complete beginners are welcome. The crew sets up the gear and shows you what to do.
• Children can join if an adult is with them, but long hours in the sun are tiring, so check the trip length first.
• Pregnant travellers and anyone who gets seasick should think carefully, because open water can be rough.

Rules and responsible fishing

• Fishing is not allowed inside protected marine park waters. Use only operators who know the permitted zones and have the correct permissions.
• Rules about what you may keep and what must be released differ by species and location. Ask the crew before you go, and follow their instructions.
• Many anglers practise catch and release for large game fish.
• Never use banned or harmful methods, and take all your waste back with you.

Best time for game fishing in Andaman

The calmer months from November to April are the most comfortable for boat trips. See month-wise sea conditions in our Andaman weather in December and Andaman weather in March guides. During the monsoon, rough seas often cancel trips.

What to carry

• A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, because there is little shade on open water
• Light clothes that dry quickly and non-slip footwear
• Drinking water and light snacks, unless your trip includes them
• Seasickness tablets if you are prone to nausea, after checking with your doctor
• A government photo ID

Game fishing tips for beginners

• Eat lightly before you go and stay hydrated.
• Keep your eyes on the horizon if you feel queasy.
• Do exactly what the crew says when a big fish bites. It can pull hard.
• Hold the rod firmly and keep hands and feet clear of the line.
• Be patient. Some trips are slow, and that is part of the experience.

Pair fishing with other Andaman activities

After a quiet day at sea, try something more active. Add scuba diving in Andaman, take a speed boat ride in Andaman or paddle through calm water with kayaking in Andaman. Browse every option on our Andaman activities page. For a local meal after the trip, see our Andaman food guide.

Add game fishing to your Andaman package

• Friends and big groups: Andaman group packages
• Active travellers: Andaman adventure packages
• Families: Andaman family packages
• Couples: Andaman honeymoon packages
• Cost-conscious trips: Andaman budget packages
• Government employees: Andaman LTC packages

FAQs about game fishing in Andaman

Can beginners go game fishing in Andaman? Yes. The crew provides the gear, explains the technique and helps you when a fish bites.

What fish can I catch in Andaman? Common targets include giant trevally, barracuda and tuna. Catches depend on season and location, and nothing is guaranteed.

What is the best time for game fishing in Andaman? November to April, when the sea is generally calmer.

Is fishing allowed everywhere in Andaman? No. Protected marine park waters are off limits. Use an operator who knows the permitted areas.

Can I keep the fish I catch? That depends on the species, location and local rules. Ask your crew before the trip.

Is game fishing safe for children? It can be, with adult supervision and life jackets. Long hours in the sun and rough seas can be tiring, so check the trip length.

Want a fishing trip in your itinerary? Call +91 9933245630, and read traveller feedback on Andaman Emerald Travels on Google.