Those who have fished the Maldives will know how beautiful this ecosystem is and the diverse sport fish that frequent this remote archipelago.
From bonefish to Marlin, the Maldives is a perfect fishing hotspot that you can enjoy with your keen fishing mates, your family or your better half. Read on as we discuss why the Maldives is a must add to your future sport fishing calendar.
Why Fish in the Maldives?
The Maldives has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. 1190 islands spread out over a distance of 960 kilometres. It offers reefs, flats, seamounts, and offshore grounds that are perfect for all kinds of fishing. Giant trevally and dogtooth tuna are the pinnacles when it comes to species targeted in the Maldives. The deep drop-offs along the reef edges make the perfect habitat for these species.
The usual offshore species roam the deep contours of the Maldives with yellowfin tuna being the main commercial industry of the nation, yet is performed in a more traditional sense than long lining as they use poling to catch these sort after pelagics. By poling for tuna, it cuts down the amount of bycatch compared to long lining.
Between January to April is when the currents start pushing from east to west improving the visibility of the water by up to 30 meters, this annual phenomenon brings in the blue marlin and all the other usual offshore suspects you will encounter in tropical water like mahi-mahi, wahoo, and sailfish.
The crystal clear water and the large number of atolls that make up the Maldives make for the perfect fly fishing destination, the shallow reefy flats that the currents push up and over make for the perfect hunting ground for the likes of bonefish, indo-pacific permit, triggerfish, bluefin trevally and of course the giant trevally. Most species worth chasing are around the 8-9 weight of the rod and if you are after a bigger G.T I would highly recommend bringing a 10-13 weight setup with you.
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Other Activities
Most activities are obviously going to be based around the water with hundreds of snorkeling trips available, to diving with whales sharks, turtles, or if you’re feeling a little adventurous there are operators offering tiger shark dives.
If you are in need of a break from the salt and sun there are cooking classes with cultural tours on offer. If you feel the need to let your hair down and unwind most resorts offer massages and spas which are perfect for the wife whilst you’re wading the flats.
When to Travel
The beauty of the Maldives is that it is a year-round destination, with consistently good weather. It does have seasons when it comes to pelagic species (January – April, and October – November). If you can’t get over during the peak offshore season never fear the G.T and dogtooth tuna aren’t going anywhere.
Places to Stay
The Maldives is made up of a huge number of islands. Because fishing is great everywhere, many people choose to stay around their resort areas. Some of the more important islands are listed below.
Fulidhoo
Fulidhoo is great for big game and reef fishing. It has crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches and is perfect for anyone who wants relaxation when fishing.
Dhiffushi
Dhiffushi is a day trip from Male, or you can stay at one of the island’s resorts. It is one of the most easterly islands that are currently inhabited, placing it in the far-flung corners of the country. If you do visit, make sure to enjoy a night fishing trip.
Male
Male is the capital. As such, it has slightly more activity than the rest of the sedate and serene country. The beauty is that it affords easy access to many of the nearby, uninhabited islands making it a great base for a Maldives vacation.
Types of Accommodation
The Maldives manages to retain much of its natural beauty with a law that stipulates its buildings can not be built higher than the palm trees. Therefore, you will never stay in a large, sprawling apartment complex.
Resorts are comprised of three types of accommodation. These are beach villa-style chalets, bungalows, and water bungalows.
Some of the bungalows may have an extra story or mezzanine level, but this is rare. Water bungalows stand on stilts above the water, for a truly unique accommodation experience.
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Planning Your Trip
There are a huge host of charters you can arrange in the Maldives for your fishing trip. Most of these will depend upon which island you are based upon.
Dive Club Furaveri is one of the most highly rated by customers online. They are based at the reception right next to the Furaveri Resort and Spa. Offering scuba and snorkeling in addition to charters, they can do it all.
Atoll Fisher is one of the few charters dedicated solely to fishing. They are certified by the Ministry for Transport and Tourism. Fishing vacation specialisms are trolling, jigging, and popping.
