The seas off Langkawi hold many of the main target species of tropical game fish. Tuna, Big eye and Dogtooth are found in the deep waters. Wahoo, Giant Trevally, Cobia, Narrow barred Mackerel, Dorado, Barracuda, Escolar, Rainbow Runner, Greater Amberjack, among others add to the variety of game fish to be found.

Being able to catch fish in their natural habitat on nature's own terms means that your fishing dreams could come true in Langkawi. With the potential of world-record catches, and an excellent climate, the islands provide angling destinations 'par excellence' and even the chance to possibly land new species. Nearer to the main island, the Tanjung Rhu area with its artificial reefs is one great place. Further out are the waters around Pulau Tuba, and Pulau Singa Besar. Tanjung Malai near Awana Porto Malai Resort is another good location. The varieties you can find here include pipefish, tuna, barracuda, boxfish and a blue-spotted stingray. Pantai Teluk Baru is a popular and well-known destination for fishing activities. The small bay at the beach forms a natural shelter for the boats. Strike up a conversation with the local fishermen here when they bring back their catch. Not only will you be able to take home some fresh "catch of the day", but you might pick up some great fishing tips, or, better still, an invitation to accompany them on their next trip.

Local fishing enthusiasts come up with a selection of ideas for baits. This includes using squids, which quite a few foreigners may find rather unconventional compared to what they have been used to. The squids are hooked to make them look alive.  Using this modest means many an angler have managed to land snappers weighing between 800g to 1.3kg. The richness of Langkawi's waters can be testified by the profusion of marine life throughout the Pulau Payar group of islands. If they can be found here, imagine the other places. It is a matter of pitting your patience, skill, resilience and luck against the temperaments of nature.

Recommended fishing times:

Although you can fish all year round, experts would recommend that you start in December (August to November are monsoon months). This is where the mackerels & barracudas come out. During this time even sailfishes, can be sighted. Also, lookout for the annual Langkawi Mackerel Run, which is held in November and the trans-border Langkawi-Koh Adang International Fishing Challenge.

Some recommended fishing trip operators:

	Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort (licensed guides with insurance)  Tel: 604-959 1888
	Alu-Alu International Sdn Bhd. 112, Persiaran Kelana Mas, Jalan Pekan Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah. Tel: 04-9665 975/5976, Mobile: 019-218 6699 (Noriza) e-mail: lift05@alu-alu.com.my
	Awana Fishing.Trip (day) RM300/4 hrs (4 pax per boat) 10.30am - 2.00pm. Night Fishing (links & bait provided) RM360/4 hours (4 pax per boat) 7.00pm - 11.00pm  Tel: 604-955 5111
	Wavemaster. Fishing trips to Tukun / Pulau Perak, betweeen Langkawi & Penang for a minimum of 15 pax ( 2 days 1 night). Tel: 604-966 5555  E-mail: info@wmlyc.com
Main Marine Fish Species:
Trevallies	Found around coral outcrops and wrecks, especially near Pulau Kaca & Pulau Segantang.
Wrasse	Species exceeding 30kg have been landed. Skill required to prevent it rushing to rocky structures.
Snappers / Sea Perches	Bottom dwellers & good eating fish
Groupers (Kerapu)	Found around coral beds. Popular dinner dish, especially Coral Trout.
Escolar (Oil fish)	Deep dweller surpassing IGFA World Record Sizes. Great target on jigs or pirks.
Cobia	Can be very big. Fights well. Not considered prime table fare by locals.
Greater Amberjack	Can grow up to 70kg, however, 20/30kg considered good. Strong fighter, dives deep, and takes a variety of lures and baits.
Rainbow Runner	Usually found close to rocky islands, sometimes swim close to fishing vessels.
Wahoo	Reputed to be the fastest fish in the sea. Considered a  nuisance when they get into a frenzy.
Big eye Tuna	Often confused with Yellow fins. Good fighter and often caught by trolling.
Dogtooth Tuna	Jigging or Pirking will thrill night enthusiasts. Be prepared to lose several metal jigs to these brutes.
Narrow barred Mackerel	Seasonal and moves in schools. Excellent table fare.
Great Barracuda	Toothy predators reaching IGFA Record Proportions.
Giant Trevally	Most respected target with a liking for large 'peppers'.
Dorado, Mahi-Mahi	Can be annoying when targeting other game species but fun with great leaps and powerful runs.
Shortbill Spearfish	Available in lesser numbers, usually alongside sailfish.
Photos: Tourism Malaysia (illustration purposes only)