Fishing Trips in Koh Tao – What to Expect & How to Arrange One
Koh Tao is best known for diving, but fishing is still a great way to spend a relaxed day out on the water. Unlike more developed destinations, there are very few formal fishing tours here — most trips are arranged directly with local longtail boat captains.
This makes fishing in Koh Tao feel more authentic, flexible and personal — but it also helps to know how it works before you go.
Are There Fishing Tours in Koh Tao?
Short answer: very few.
Unlike snorkelling or diving, Koh Tao doesn’t have many structured fishing tour operators. Most fishing trips are informal and arranged locally with longtail boat captains based around Sairee Beach, Mae Haad and Chalok.
That said, there are a small number of bookable fishing trips available online, such as those offered by Koh Tao Adventure. These tend to be more structured, but availability is limited and they are not as common as other activities on the island.
In practice, if you want a proper fishing experience, your best option is still to organise a private trip directly with a local boat captain. This gives you more flexibility and a more authentic experience.
Tip: Most local fishing trips in Koh Tao aren’t listed online — speaking directly to a boat captain is usually the easiest and most reliable way to arrange one.
Types of Fishing Trips Available
Private Longtail Fishing Trips
The most common option is hiring a longtail boat and heading out with a local captain. These trips are flexible and can be tailored to what you want to do.
- Half-day or full-day trips
- Basic fishing gear and bait often included
- Can combine fishing with snorkelling or island hopping
- Relaxed, local experience rather than a structured tour
Sunset & Night Squid Fishing
Night fishing for squid is one of the more interesting options. Boats use lights to attract squid, making it a fun and slightly different experience compared to daytime fishing.
Fishing on Snorkelling Trips
Some snorkelling trips may allow basic hand-line fishing, but these are not dedicated fishing trips and are more of a casual extra.
What Can You Catch?
Fishing around Koh Tao is mainly reef and coastal fishing. Depending on conditions, you might catch:
Don’t expect big-game fishing — Koh Tao is more about simple, local fishing experiences rather than deep-sea sport fishing.
Typical Prices & Routes
Prices vary depending on the boat, duration and group size, but most trips are private rather than per person.
- Short trips to Koh Nang Yuan: ~300 THB
- Half-day private longtail: ~3,000–6,000 THB
- Full-day trips: ~6,000–10,000 THB+
Always confirm what’s included (fuel, bait, snorkelling gear, drinks) before heading out.
Local Option: Private Boat Trips & Fishing
If you’re looking for a flexible option, your best bet is to speak directly to a local longtail driver.
One example is Mr Tooey, a longtail boat driver based on Sairee Beach who runs snorkelling trips, taxi boat services and private charters around Koh Tao.
Fishing isn’t always advertised as a standard tour, but you can contact him directly to ask about arranging a custom fishing trip depending on conditions.
Tip: Most locals don’t advertise fishing trips online — speaking directly to a boat captain is usually the best way to arrange a proper trip.
- Private longtail boat hire
- Snorkelling trips around the island
- Taxi boat services
- Custom trips on request (including fishing)
WhatsApp: +66 92 646 1571
This is usually the easiest and most reliable way to organise a fishing trip in Koh Tao, especially if you’re looking for something flexible rather than a fixed tour.
In reality, most fishing trips are simply customised private boat hires, where you agree a route, duration and activities directly with the captain.
Best Time to Go Fishing
The best conditions are generally from March to September when the sea is calmer. Fishing is possible year-round, but conditions can be rougher from October to January.
Early morning and late afternoon are usually the most productive times.
Why Fishing Isn’t Big in Koh Tao
- The island focuses heavily on diving and snorkelling tourism
- No large-scale sport fishing industry
- Local fishing is small-scale and traditional
- Most visitors prefer reef-based activities
Because of this, fishing remains a more local, informal experience — which is actually part of its appeal.
Is Fishing Worth It in Koh Tao?
If you’re expecting high-end sport fishing, Koh Tao probably isn’t the place.
But if you want a relaxed day on the water, a chance to catch your own fish and experience the island in a different way, it’s definitely worth doing.
More Things to Do in Koh Tao
Looking for more ideas? Check out our things to do in Koh Tao guide, explore scuba diving in Koh Tao, or browse wellness & beauty in Koh Tao if you want something more relaxing.
The best snorkeling spots
