Deep Sea Fishing in Dubai
Deep sea fishing is an activity that is often underrated in Dubai. Most visitors and residents focus on the bars, restaurants, and events while living in a coastal city. However, Dubai has a thriving fishing community and culture. If you’re looking for something different to do, consider deep sea fishing. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
Fishing, pearl diving, and the dhow trade were historically the three main elements of the local economy. Together, they formed the backbone of the area’s industry. In fact, fishing was one of the 3 key elements of local industry, along with pearl diving and the dhow trade.
When to Fishing in Dubai?
The absolute best months for fishing is January – May, with January – March is a particular highlight.
In the summer, both the enjoyment of fishing and the amount of fish caught drop significantly. The season starts again in October. Broadly speaking the season starts up again in October.
Shore vs. Deep Sea
Offshore fishing is the best way to catch big fish. The further you go offshore, the bigger the fish you’ll catch. Of course, it’s more expensive to charter a boat or hires a captain, but it’s worth it for the thrill of the catch. Deep Sea Fishing Dubai is naturally the obvious winner. As you for further away offshore, you increase your chances of catching bigger fish however it is naturally more expensive since you either need to own a boat or hire a charter.
Shore fishing is quite common and some people have good success with it, but it requires different rods and more patience.
What Can You Catch?
The most common catch is:
- Barracuda
- King Fish
- Sharrie
- Hammour
- Sultan Ibrahim
Occasional catch
- Cobia
- Travelly
- Tuna
- Jaesh
How to Choose a Yacht Charter in Dubai?
If you decide to go down the path of deep sea fishing Dubai through a fishing charter, here are some important questions to ask before you book a trip.
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How many crew members will be onboard?
There should be at least 2 crew members since one will not be enough to operate the boat (trolling) and assist you with the rods/catch.
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Will we do trolling and bottom fishing or just bottom fishing?
Trolling consumes more petrol and thus many charters save money on it, but larger fish can only be caught with trolling.
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How far from the shore will we go?
If the answer is less than 15-20km you should probably stay away. Some charters save petrol costs by ‘deep sea fishing in sight of the Palm Island but these defeats the purpose.
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What boat do you use?
You want something that is at least 30 feet and has a washroom onboard.
What To Bring?
Here are some items that are important for a happy Fishing Trip:
- Sunglasses
- Hat/Cap
- Long sleeve shirts/t-shirts
- Food/Snacks
If you are experienced, you should probably bring your own jigging rods.
- ‘Drinks’
- Extra pair of clothes – with the splashing you might get quite wet
- Seasickness tablets
- Swimming trunks (can be very refreshing)
Happy Fishing!
