Game Fishing in the Andaman Islands

Game fishing in the Andaman Islands is not about convenience. It’s about distance, preparation, and the willingness to go where most boats never do. My journey began in Port Blair, before dawn, when the harbour was quiet and the city still asleep. Rods were secured, reels checked, coffee poured. Ahead of us lay open ocean—and far beyond the horizon, Barren Island, India’s only active volcano and one of the most remote sport fishing grounds in the Indian Ocean. This was my introduction to deep sea game fishing in the Andaman Islands, and it quickly became clear: this was not a typical fishing trip.

Leaving Port Blair

Most fishing trips start near the coast but this one required my commitment. We started early in the morning by first light. As the sun grew, Port Blair (now Sri Vijaya Puram) faded into the distance. The water changed from lighter hues to a dark and never ending stretch. The crew from the charters I hired, Andaman Island Spirit Charters moved with quiet confidence—checking tackle, reading wind, watching currents. There was no rush, no noise, no unnecessary movement. They knew when the fishes will show up, when dolphins will show up. This shows how experienced they are and have a deep knowledge of these waters.

The long run offshore gave time for my mind to slow down and drift into deep thinking. Suddenly I was signaled to see the flying fish that skimmed the surface. The sun can be harsh even in the month of December, specially when you are in the sea. But the private charter boat of Andaman Island Spirit Charter, Wave dancer has a closed cabin. I could spot dolphins swimming besides the boat, trying to match the speed. It was an awe experience. In those moments, I though this is what game fishing charters in the Andaman Islands are truly about. The unruly distances from land, isolation, and sole intent to see and catch something beautiful.

Barren Island: Raw, Remote & Unforgiving

Far up the horizon, a peak eased into view. This looked like a natures triangle with smoke rising from the intersection. But as we grew closer, this island suddenly emerges black and terrifying yet holding an immense beauty. This rare glimpse from the sea made my journey. I was told this looked magnificent in first light when the peak has orange hue from the volcano. But unfortunately anchoring of Game Fishing at Andaman Islands is prohibited. All charters have to return back before dawn. I am sure this will change in a few years and I intend to go back.

Barren Island is a culmination of black volcanic cliffs with Sheer drop-offs with a smoking crater cutting into the sky. There is no harbour, no settlement, and no second chances here in the wild. The waters here are dramatic—steep underwater walls, strong currents, nutrient-rich upwellings. This is why big game fishing in the Andaman Islands reaches another level around Barren Island. The skipper pointed toward the leeward side with Hidden coves. The waters here are crystal clear. I did jump in for a quick dive and it felt magical.

Hidden Coves of Barren Island

As we entered one of Barren Island’s protected coves, the sea transformed. The surface flattened to glass. Baitfish flashed beneath us. This was the moment I was truly waiting for. Casting poppers tight near these volcanic rock faces felt surreal. Each splash echoed and every retrieve carried tension. Then it happened, A giant trevally exploded on the lure, erupting from the water with pure force. The fight was vertical, brutal, and unforgiving. No shallow reef. No lagoon. Just deep water and raw power. This was GT fishing in the Andaman Islands at its wildest—and landing that fish felt significant not for its size alone, but for the place it came from.

Why Barren Island Is One of the Best Game Fishing Locations in India?

Fishing around Barren Island is unpredictable—and that’s exactly why it’s special. These fish are unpressured. Unconditioned. They behave like apex predators should. This makes sport fishing in the Andaman Islands a thinking angler’s pursuit.

Depending on conditions:

• Surface popping produces explosive GT strikes
• Deep jigging brings dogtooth tuna from volcanic slopes
• Offshore trolling along current lines attracts wahoo and yellowfin tuna

Nothing here is guaranteed. Every fish is earned. That’s what separates serious game fishing trips in the Andaman Islands from commercial fishing destinations.

Quiet Drifts and the Beauty of Isolation

Not every memory was loud. There were long drifts where the boat floated silently beneath the volcano. Ash-dark cliffs contrasted against turquoise water. Steam curled faintly from the crater. No one spoke much. The place demanded attention, not conversation. This is something game fishing holidays in the Andaman Islands offer that few places still can—space, silence, and perspective.

Jigging the Deep: When the Ocean Pushes Back

One afternoon, surface activity slowed. The decision was made to jig deep along submerged volcanic structures. The jigs dropped endlessly into blue. The strike came hard. Line tore off the reel. The rod folded. Dogtooth tuna. This was not a quick fight. It was controlled pressure, patience, and teamwork. The crew guided every move—drag adjustments, rod angles, timing.Moments like this show the true value of a professional Andaman game fishing charter. In remote waters like Barren Island, experience is everything.

Fishing with Andaman Island Spirit Charters

What stood out most throughout the trip was philosophy. No exaggerated promises. No rushed spots. No pressure to produce results. Just honest fishing. The crew knew when to move and when to wait, when to push conditions and when to respect them. This approach defines the best game fishing tours in the Andaman Islands—you’re not buying outcomes, you’re investing in judgement and integrity.

Responsible Game Fishing in the Andaman Islands

Around Barren Island, conservation is not optional. Fish were handled carefully, photographed quickly, and released strong. Tackle choices prioritised fish health. Conversations about protecting this fishery were open and constant. Responsible catch and release game fishing in the Andaman Islands is the only way places like Barren Island remain wild and productive.

The Return to Port Blair

Leaving Barren Island felt heavier than expected. As the the black island faded into the horizon, the ocean widened again. The run back to Port Blair was quiet and reflective. No phones. No rush. We had landed fish. We had lost some. But more importantly, we had experienced a place that still feels untouched. That’s rare.

Is Game Fishing in the Andaman Islands Worth It?

Best time for game fishing in Andaman Islands:
October to May (November–March is excellent)

Target species:
Giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, sailfish

Best locations:
Barren Island, offshore seamounts, deep water drop-offs

Do you need a Game Fishing charter?
Yes. Remote waters demand experienced skippers and purpose-built boats.

Game fishing in the Andaman Islands—especially around Barren Island—is not about ticking boxes. It’s about earning every mile, every cast, and every fish. For anglers searching for the best game fishing destination in India, the Andamans offer something increasingly rare: raw water, real fish, and experiences that stay with you long after the boat is back in harbour. Some places don’t need exaggeration. They speak for themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Is game fishing allowed in the Andaman Islands?

Yes, game fishing is permitted in designated areas when conducted responsibly through licensed operators following local regulations.

Q2. What makes Barren Island special for game fishing?

Barren Island offers deep drop-offs, strong currents, and unpressured fish populations, making it one of India’s most unique sport fishing locations.

Q3. What fish species can be caught while game fishing in Andaman Islands?

Giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and occasional billfish.

Q4. Do I need a private charter for game fishing in Andaman Islands?

Yes. Serious game fishing requires private charters with experienced skippers, safety equipment, and offshore-capable boats.