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Vanuatu sport fishing has it all! World class blue marlin fishing year round. The fishing is no better than what you’ll find in friendly and peaceful Vanuatu, and because this is a small nation, it’s possible to enjoy it all in one visit, perhaps with a day of game and/or reefing outside of Port Vila. or a week-long trip across the islands past volcanoes and rainforests. In Vanuatu’s waters it is common to release a sailfish and one or two billfish in a single day, and it is not unusual to catch several wahoo, yellowfin and mahi-mahi. We also catch shortnose spearfish, rainbow runners, GT, and the mighty dogtooth tuna.
Most vessel operators release all billfish that are not record contenders, so the future of the resource is assured. The tagging program is carried out at the fishing competitions organized mainly by the Port Vila Game Fishing Club. Any billfish that are killed or killed during these events carry a penalty or points deducted. One of the biggest competitions on the Vanuatu sport fishing calendar for the year is the Marlin Classic, in which anglers come from various parts of the world to try and win the USD$30,000.00 that is usually up for grabs. This competition is usually held in June and is tag and release only, with each boat bringing an observer to ensure that IGFA rules are strictly followed.
If you’re more into catching giant billfish with a fly rod, several charter operators specialize in big game fly fishing. Several Pacific Blue Marlin have been caught on a fly here in Vanuatu that are current IGFA world records. Many of the operators are also equipped and experienced in light and ultralight tackle fishing. In general, the level of the rental boat fleet is very good. Most of the best boats in Port Vila are around the 34 foot mark. There are a variety of brands with Lures, Blackwatch, Capricorn, Bertram, Reefmaster all represented. Most skippers take pride in the preparation and maintenance of equipment. There are also some smaller, cheaper operations that can provide a good day on the water as well. Some of these operators are NiVan or local indigenous people and can take you to some great places on smaller boats.
Several of the operators with larger vessels run trips through the islands, either live on board or away from home. The live away option is very popular as it allows fishermen to get off the boat each night and with operators who have arrangements with guest houses and resorts you can learn a lot about Vanuatu culture.
If you need to travel with your family, however they don’t share the same passion for Vanuatu sport fishing as you do, there are plenty of high quality resorts, hotels and accommodation to suit all budgets and requirements. Some of the major resorts offer water sports, golf, tennis, and can arrange other excursions such as snorkeling, horseback riding, buggy tours, rock climbing, sunset cruises, and much more. If you’ve decided on this idea, there’s fantastic fishing 15-20 minutes from Port Vila, so day trips are a great option. Several operators also offer lodging and fishing packages for fishing groups, corporate parties and incentive groups. These are also great opportunities to host a mine tournament to keep things interesting.
If you love fishing, warm weather, friendly people and amazing scenery, then Vanuatu Game Fishing is for you.