Quick Answer
If you think India’s best fishing happens in Goa or Kerala, think again. Tucked away in the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Islands are quietly becoming a bucket-list destination for serious anglers. Here, giant trevally smash topwater lures, marlin leap from volcanic depths, and tuna schools stretch as far as the eye can see. Add in untouched reefs, world-class charters, and a setting that feels more like the Maldives than mainland India, and you’ve got a game fishing paradise still off the radar of most travelers.
In this guide, we’ll break down reasons why the Andaman Islands stand above every other destination in India for game fishing—and why your next trophy catch might just come from here.
The Andaman Edge: Why Anglers Choose It Over Other Indian Destinations
India has a long coastline, but not all waters are equal when it comes to sport fishing. Here’s why the Andamans stand out:
- Marine Biodiversity: You can target both reef predators (GT, barracuda) and pelagic giants (marlin, tuna, sailfish). Most mainland destinations only offer one or the other.
- Minimal Commercial Pressure: Unlike Goa or Kerala, the Andamans have very little industrial fishing. That means healthier stocks and bigger fish.
- World-Class Spots: Havelock, Neil, Little Andaman, and Barren Island are names recognized by anglers worldwide.
- Experienced Charters: The islands have operators trained in international standards, with high-end gear and boats.
- Adventure Factor: Remote islands, volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear water make every trip feel like an expedition.
A Paradise of Species
The diversity of fish in the Andamans is unmatched in India. Some of the highlights include:
- Giant Trevally (GT): Known as the “Andaman Bull,” GTs here reach 50–60 kg, perfect for popping and jigging.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Offshore schools offer heart-pounding fights, with specimens over 70 kg.
- Marlin (Black & Blue): Rare in most of India, but regularly targeted near Barren Island.
- Sailfish: Lightning-fast acrobats, best in April–May.
- Dorado & Wahoo: Bright, fast, and plentiful near weed lines.
- Barracuda: A fun target for beginners, with their vicious strikes and razor teeth.
In short: whether you’re chasing a record GT or just want non-stop action, the Andamans deliver.
Hotspots That Make the Andamans India’s Fishing Capital
Here’s a closer look at the top game fishing zones:
1. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
- GT capital of India.
- Shallow reef edges perfect for popping.
- Great mix of species—tuna, dorado, and barracuda nearby.
- Also a base for high-end fishing charters.
2. Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
- Quieter and less crowded than Havelock.
- Consistent tuna and dorado action.
- Good mix of offshore and reef fishing.
3. Barren Island
- India’s only active volcano—and a legendary fishing ground.
- Deep offshore trenches attract marlin, sailfish, and massive tuna.
- Accessible only via multi-day charters.
4. Little Andaman
- Remote and untouched.
- Ideal for anglers seeking trophy GTs.
- Requires planning, but rewards are unmatched.
How the Andamans Compare With Other Indian Destinations
| Destination | Key Species | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andaman Islands | GT, tuna, marlin, sailfish, dorado | World-class biodiversity, pristine waters, expert charters | Remote, requires travel via Port Blair |
| Goa | King mackerel, barracuda, snapper | Easy access, nightlife | Smaller fish, heavy fishing pressure |
| Kerala | Barracuda, seer fish, snapper | Backwaters + culture | Limited offshore action |
| Lakshadweep | Tuna, GT | Clean waters, great for jigging | Limited charters, more expensive |
| Tamil Nadu coast | Snapper, grouper, barracuda | Easy access | Coastal only, not true “big game” fishing |
The Andamans win because they combine pelagic giants, reef monsters, and minimal fishing pressure.
What Makes It Truly “The Best”
It’s not just about the fish. The overall experience matters. Here’s what anglers who visit Andaman Islands rave about:
- Pristine Environment: Crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, volcanic structures.
- Adventure Factor: Fishing near an active volcano is something few destinations can match.
- Catch Variety: It’s possible to land GT, tuna, and marlin on the same trip.
- Professional Guides: Local skippers know the waters intimately and use international-standard gear.
- Tourism Mix: You can combine hardcore fishing with beaches, snorkeling, and family trips.
Practical Travel Info for Anglers for Game Fishing in Andaman Islands
- Getting There: Fly into Port Blair (direct flights from Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Delhi). Havelock and Neil are 1–2 hours by ferry.
- Best Season: Oct–Apr (calmest seas, best variety). Jan–Mar is peak.
- Charter Costs: ?10,000–25,000 per person per day depending on trip length.
- Gear: Most charters provide the fising setups, but hardcore anglers often bring their own popping/jigging rods.
- Regulations: Catch-and-release encouraged for GT, marlin, and sailfish.
Beyond Fishing: What Else to Do in Andaman Islands
If you’re bringing family or want downtime between trips:
- Relax on Radhanagar Beach (Asia’s #1 beach).
- Go scuba diving in Havelock (world-class reefs).
- Visit Ross & Smith Islands for a unique sandbar walk.
- Snorkel at Jolly Bouy Island.
This balance makes the Andamans perfect for both solo anglers and family holidays.
A Day in the Life of an Andaman Fishing Trip
You start early at Havelock or Port Blair jetty. The air is salty, the sky pink with sunrise. The crew readies popping rods with lures. Just 20 minutes out, you’re casting into reef edges. A GT smashes the lure, your reel screams, and adrenaline surges.
By mid-morning, you’re offshore chasing tuna under diving birds. After lunch onboard, the captain heads to deeper waters. Lines go out for marlin. By late afternoon, you’re back, sunburned and grinning, with stories that last a lifetime.
That’s why anglers keep coming back.
FAQs
Q1. Why are the Andaman Islands better than Goa or Kerala for fishing?
A1. Because you get both reef species like GT and pelagic giants like marlin, with less fishing pressure.
Q2. Can beginners try game fishing here?
A2. Yes, Andaman Island Spirit charters cater to all skill levels. Beginners often start with barracuda or dorado.
Q3. What’s the best time of year?
A3. January–March is peak, but October–April is good overall.
Q4. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?
A4. No, charters provide the gear. But serious anglers often bring specialized popping or jigging rods.
Andaman Island Spirit Charters in Andaman Islands is one of the most reputed Game fishing & Boat Charter company to take you to the best fishing destinations across the islands. Our crew is the heart of every trip. At the helm is a captain with over 15 years of hands-on experience navigating Andaman waters. Supporting him is a team from the Karen community, born and raised on these islands. They are expert swimmers and traditional seafarers who know the reefs, tides, and fish movements better than anyone. Their deep local knowledge and genuine passion for the sea make every trip both safe and unforgettable.
Book your Game Fishing Trip with Andaman Island Spirit Charters today.