Peak Season: November – April
The best time for fishing in Pattaya is during the dry season, from November to April. During these months:
- The weather is sunny and dry, creating calm and stable sea conditions.
- Water temperatures range from 27-30°C (80-86°F), which attracts a variety of fish species.
- The lack of strong winds makes it easier to travel offshore to prime fishing spots.
🎣 Best Fish to Catch:
- Sailfish
- Giant Trevally (GT)
- King Mackerel
- Barracuda
- Grouper
- Snapper
- Tuna
Off-Peak Season: May – October
The monsoon season from May to October brings more unpredictable weather. While it’s still possible to fish, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Expect occasional heavy rains and choppy waters, especially in June – September.
- Certain fish species move to deeper waters, making them harder to catch.
- Some fishing trips may be canceled due to rough sea conditions.
🎣 Best Fish to Catch:
- Barracuda
- Grouper
- Snapper
- Squid (night fishing is popular during this time)
How the Seasons Affect Fishing
Dry Season (November – April)
✅ Best for offshore and deep-sea fishing ✅ Ideal for big game fishing (tuna, sailfish, GT) ✅ Calm seas make for a comfortable fishing experience ✅ Higher chance of catching multiple species
Rainy Season (May – October)
✅ Night fishing for squid is excellent ✅ Good time for reef and bottom fishing ✅ Fewer tourists, so fishing spots are less crowded ❌ Possible trip cancellations due to weather ❌ Some larger fish move to deeper waters
Best Time of Day for Fishing
Regardless of the season, early morning (5:30 AM – 10:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM – sunset) are the best times to fish. During these periods:
- Fish are more active as they feed before and after the midday heat.
- The waters are cooler, making it easier to attract larger predatory fish.
- Sunrise and sunset provide perfect conditions for topwater and trolling techniques.
Tips for Fishing in Pattaya
✅ Book in advance during peak season to secure the best boats and guides. ✅ Check weather conditions before planning a trip, especially in the rainy season. ✅ Choose the right fishing method – trolling for big game fish, bottom fishing for reef species, and jigging for active fish. ✅ Use live bait for the best results, especially for catching predators like barracuda and grouper. ✅ Consider night fishing if you want to catch squid and other nocturnal species.
Final Thoughts
The best time for fishing in Pattaya is undoubtedly from November to April, when the weather and sea conditions are ideal. However, fishing is possible year-round, and the rainy season offers unique opportunities like night squid fishing and reef fishing. No matter when you visit, Pattaya’s rich waters promise an exciting adventure for every angler!
