At the south of the Pacific Ocean lies the small but breathtaking country of Fiji, a popular tourist destination for its private islands, world-class spas and recreational spots. Composed of 333 islands, Fiji is an accessible getaway through direct flights from Honolulu and Los Angeles. The country’s national carrier, Fiji Airways, has regular flights from other international locations such as Auckland, Brisbane, Christchurch, Hong Kong, Melbourne, Sydney and Vancouver.
Why Fiji?
Because of its warm, tropical waters and oceanic location, Fiji is also an excellent hub for saltwater fishing. This can be done all year round. Anglers are certainly up for a great adventure as the country almost never runs out of ideal fishing spots, all teeming with different and delectable species.
Namotu Island, for instance, has a rich underwater ecosystem that offers great challenge to even the most experienced anglers. Marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna and wahoo are just some of the species found within its waters. In Kaduva, anglers enjoy plenty of Spanish mackerel and yellowfin tuna. Around Suva, located at the north of Kaduva, fishers are treated with different types of marlin, giant trevally and yellowfin. Taveuni, also near these areas, has plenty of mackerel and tuna.
Take Note of Seasons
Anglers on the lookout of specific types of fish may best learn about Fiji’s fishing seasons. While most species are abundant all throughout the year, there are months when abundance is at peak.
The giant trevally is available all year round; mahi-mahi is best caught in two seasons - June to August and December to January; marlin and sailfish are found all year round, though it is best to catch them between November and February; spanish mackerel can be found from May to September; tuna is available all year round, though best caught from May to September, while wahoo can be found all year round.
In Suva, particularly, pacific marlin species are almost always spotted. Some of them are reported to weigh 800 pounds. The largest blue marlin caught in the country was 983 pounds, as per the Worldwide Fishing Guide. Could you be the next record-holder?
Don’t Forget the Weather
Interested anglers, however, may want to be sure about the weather before booking a trip to fish in Fiji. The wet season usually takes place between late November and late February; the country is no stranger to rains and cyclones. It is therefore important to check on climate and weather conditions to ensure an enjoyable fishing adventure.
Visitors can also hire expert guides to aid them in catching those highly-prized Fijian fish. Fiji Fishing Charters, for instance, has guides with over two decades of experience, so it is worthy checking them out. Of course, saltwater fishing requires every angler to have appropriate gear and equipment, and these can be found at EatMyTackle.com.
Fiji’s fishing industry is actually one of the country’s best exports, and at the same time, serves as a staple source of food for locals. The US Department of State has recorded that fish was the country’s top domestic export for nine straight months in 2010.
Are you ready to fish in Fiji?