Vanuatu Sport Fishing Has It All! World class blue marlin fishing year round. The fishing is no better than what you will find in friendly and peaceful Vanuatu, and because this is a small nation, it is possible to enjoy it all in one visit, perhaps with a day of hunting and / or a reef in Port. Vila. or a week-long trip through the islands through volcanoes and the rainforest. In the waters of Vanuatu it is common to release a sailfish and a marlin or two in a single day, and it is not uncommon to catch several wahoo, yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi. We also caught short-beaked spearfish, rainbow runners, GT, and the mighty dogtooth tuna.
Most boat operators release all billfish that are not record contenders, so the future of the resource is assured. The tagging program is carried out in fishing competitions that are carried out mainly by the Port Vila Sport Fishing Club. Any billfish that kills or dies during these events carries a penalty or points deducted. One of the biggest competitions on Vanuatu’s sport fishing calendar for the year is the Marlin Classic, which sees anglers coming from various parts of the world to attempt to win the USD $ 30,000.00 that is generally up for grabs. This competition usually runs in June and is only marked and released, with each boat carrying an observer to make sure IGFA rules are strictly followed.
If your favorite thing is to catch a giant billfish on a fishing pole, several charter operators specialize in fly fishing for big game. Several Pacific blue marlin have been fly caught here in Vanuatu which are current IGFA world records. Many of the operators are also equipped and experienced in fishing with lightweight and ultralight tackle. Generally, the level of the charter fleet is very good. Most of the best boats in Port Vila hover around the 34 foot mark. There are a variety of brands with Lures, Blackwatch, Capricorn, Bertram, Reefmaster all represented. Most employers take pride in preparing and maintaining equipment. There are also some smaller and cheaper operations that can also provide a good day on the water. Some of these operators are NiVan or local indigenous and can take you to great places in smaller boats.
Several of the larger vessel operators travel across the islands, either on board or off. The live option is very popular, as it allows fishermen to get off the boat every night, and if the operators have arrangements with the guesthouses and resorts, a lot can be learned about the culture of Vanuatu.
If you need to travel with your family, however they do not share the same passion for Vanuatu sport fishing as you do, there are many high quality resorts, hotels and accommodations to suit all budgets and needs. Some of the major resorts offer water sports, golf, tennis, and can arrange other tours such as snorkeling, horseback riding, buggy tours, rock climbing, sunset cruises, and much more. If you’ve settled on this idea, there’s some fantastic 15-20 minute fishing outside of Port Vila, so day trips are a great option. Several operators also offer accommodation and fishing packages for fishing groups, corporate parties and incentive groups. These are also a great opportunity to host a mine tournament to keep things interesting.
If you like fishing, warm weather, friendly people, and incredible scenery, Vanuatu Game Fishing is for you.