If you’re dreaming of landing your biggest catch yet and doing so in a tropical paradise, Aore Adventure Sports can make that dream a reality.
Our trusted and highly recommended fishing charter trips are an experience you’ll never forget. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about fishing in Vanuatu.
Can You Fish in Vanuatu?
Yes, you can fish in Vanuatu. Vanuatu fishing holidays are the ultimate choice, whether you’re new to fishing or an enthusiast. Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu offers year-round opportunities for both deep-sea and reef fishing.
Why Base in Santo?
As well as being the largest of Vanuatu’s islands, Santo is also one of its most peaceful, and the ultimate destination for fishing. Stay at our Aore Adventure Lodge beachfront accommodation on Aore Island and you’ll find our fishing charter ‘Full Boar’ conveniently waiting at the jetty just in front.
Santo offers excellent fishing opportunities with steep drop-offs close to the shore. The proximity to the Segond Channel mean that you won’t need to venture far to spot vast numbers of fish in the pristine waters when staying in Santo.
Fishing Seasons & What Bites When
| Month | Fish Species |
|---|---|
| January | Dogtooth tuna (peak), giant trevally (peak), marlin (peak), yellowfin tuna (peak) |
| February | Dogtooth tuna (peak), giant trevally (peak), marlin (peak), yellowfin tuna (peak) |
| March | Big yellowfin tuna (good), blue marlin (peak), Dogtooth tuna (peak), giant trevally (good), wahoo (peak) |
| April | Blue marlin (peak), Dogtooth tuna (peak), giant trevally (good), wahoo (peak), yellowfin tuna (good) |
| May | Dogtooth tuna (peak), giant trevally (good), mahi mahi (peak), marlin (peak), sailfish, wahoo (peak), yellowfin tuna (good) |
| June | Blue marlin, Dogtooth tuna (good), sailfish (peak), wahoo (peak) |
| July | Blue marlin, Dogtooth tuna (good), wahoo (peak) |
| August | Blue marlin, Dogtooth tuna (good), sailfish (peak), swordfish (peak), striped marlin (peak), wahoo (peak) |
| September | Blue marlin, Dogtooth tuna (good), sailfish (peak), swordfish (peak), striped marlin (peak), wahoo (peak) |
| October | Blue marlin, striped marlin (peak), giant trevally (peak), skipjack tuna (peak), yellowfin tuna (peak) |
| November | Black marlin (peak) blue marlin, giant trevally (peak), skipjack tuna (peak), striped marlin (peak), yellowfin tuna (peak) |
| December | Giant trevally (peak), mahi mahi (good), marlin (peak), wahoo (good), yellowfin tuna (peak) |
Summary:
Dec–Feb: Strong for marlin and yellowfin; mahi-mahi common.
Mar–May: Often the best overall window; wahoo and marlin are especially good.
Jun–Aug: Prime wahoo; sailfish show; dogtooth & GT good.
Sep–Nov: Black/striped marlin build, GT active; mahi picks up through spring.
Target Species
Fishing in Vanuatu offers more than just another angling experience. Instead, you can fish for a huge variety of species using a range of different fishing methods. This makes it ideal for fishing enthusiasts of all abilities.
Trolling
Trolling is used in Vanuatu as a method of catching pelagic fish. This includes mahi mahi, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and marlin. High-speed trolling is often used for wahoo.
Popping
Trolling is used in Vanuatu as a method of catching pelagic fish. This includes mahi mahi, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and marlin. High-speed trolling is often used for wahoo.
Jigging
Jigging can also be used to catch giant trevally and Dogtooth tuna.
Please note that catch and release is used for billfish to ensure conservation of the species.
Regulations & Permits
To fish in Vanuatu, you will be required to follow the regulations set out by the Vanuatu Fisheries Department.
Licences are required if you are the owner/operator of a vessel that plans to fish in Vanuatu waters. Part 7 of the Fishing Act No.10 of 2014 provides specific details of the licencing regulations.
Spearfishing is popular in Vanuatu, but you must avoid marine conservation areas where spearfishing is prohibited. Restrictions are also in place for catching coconut crabs and other crab species measuring less than 9cm.
There are restrictions on the net sizes you can use for fishing in Vanuatu, so it’s important to check you’re using the correct equipment provided by the charter company.
Charter Tips
The Full Boar offers a comfortable and safe fishing charter experience from Santo. We’ve got all the fishing gear you need already on board and provide light refreshments to keep hunger at bay.
You may wish to bring extra water to stay hydrated and prevent sea sickness. It’s also a good idea to wear sun protection and bring a hat to avoid getting burnt while out on the water.
Be sure to book your charter in advance, as these popular fishing trips book up fast!
Mini Itinerary
So, what can you expect when you book your place on one of the popular Santo fishing charters?
- If you’re staying at the Aore Adventure Lodge on Aore Island, you simply need to head to the jetty in front of your accommodation to board the ‘Full Boar.’
- Your first fishing opportunity of the day is close to the shore. The vibrant reefs at Espiritu Santo are teeming with different species for you to catch.
- Next, the Full Boar will head out to deeper waters where you can out your fishing skills to the test on larger species such as tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and marlin.
- Finally, you can relax and take in the beautiful view while heading back to the jetty.
FAQs
Book Your Vanuatu Fishing Holiday Today
If you’re ready to enjoy a fishing experience like no other, Aore Adventure Sports & Lodge is the place to go. Enquire about dates and pricing today and start planning your unforgettable trip.
