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The variety
of freshwater and marine environments in Malaysia offer a
vast scope of fishing opportunities. Whether for serious
game fishing or fun, Malaysia boasts a plethora of fishing
destinations. However, proper planning is essential when
considering serious angling in Malaysia. Target species must
be identified, timing and seasons also need to be taken into
account. A well-organised Malaysian fishing package may
prove to be the difference between success and failure.
Very few fishing organizers, however, provide a full service
including tackle, fishing masters and customized
itineraries. Should you wish to fish in Malaysia, it is
advisable to arrange your trip through the experts. With
angling in Malaysia still in its infancy, opportunities to
land that “big one” are real. Fishing can be a one day
affair or a 2 week affair. It all depends on one’s quarry
and destinations. Whether you are a serious angler or a fun
fisherman, Malaysia offers the best for both.
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Freshwater Fishing
Malaysia’s rivers and natural and man make lakes are home to
over 300 species of freshwater fish of which around 40 species
can be caught on rod and line. The prime freshwater sport fish
include the ferocious Giant Snakehead, the fast running
Malaysian Jungle Perch, the Giant Featherback, the massive fresh
water Catfish and the elusive but powerful Malaysian Mahseer.
The Giant Snakehead or "Toman” is a powerful fighter and can
attain a weight of more than 20kg. However, common catches
average around the 5 to 10kg mark. The Giant Featherback or
“Belida” also attains a size of over 20kg while the Catfish or
“Tapah” can reach more than 50kg. The Malaysian Mahseer, a sub
species of the Indian Mahseer, is probably one of the most
powerful of the freshwater fish. Although not as big as its
Indian cousin, it nevertheless provides excellent sport.
Arovana or “Kelisa” as known locally is a totally protected
species. Now only caught in the more remote areas, this fish is
a superb fighter, but must be released if caught. Freshwater
fishing can be relatively easy with may pay ponds in close
proximity to all west coast Peninsula Malaysia towns. Also there
are few resort fisheries which offer a wide range of
accommodation, a variety of activities and well-shocked fishing
ponds. For the more hardy angler, jungle excursions which may
involve trekking and camping can be arranged. A few excellent
fishing centres are also be found on the fringes of Malaysia’s
massive man made lakes.
Sea Fishing
The seas of Malaysia offer a wide diversity of depth, terrain
and fish species. The west coast of Peninsula Malaysia is
primarily a bottom fishing are. Depths rarely exceed 100 metres
and quality table such as grouper, snapper and threadfin are the
main quarry. Sailfish and Narrow Barred Mackerel are found
seasonally while Giant Trevally and Barracuda are quite common
catches. In contrast, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, off
the distant Island of Aur, Pemanggil and Tioman is home to big
game fish, the Black Marlin being the most famous. Other game
fish include Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi),
Cobia, Mackerel and Barracuda.
The Marlin of Malaysia’s east coast average between 50kg to
150kg. The Borneo coast of the South China Sea also offer also
offer excellent big game fishing with the island of Labuan being
centrally located to these prime fishing areas. The east coast
of Sabah bordering the Sulu and Sulawesi seas, with water over
2000 metres in depth, boast both excellent bottom fishing around
reef areas and top class game fishing with Marlin, Sailfish,
Yellowfin, Bigeye and Dogtooth Tuna.
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Destinations & Key Tips |
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