Fishing in Bali

Bali consists of several islands that offer very different fishing opportunities. Practically every tropical fish species can be caught here and every type of fishing can be practised. When jigging, dogtooth tuna, jobfish and snapper can be caught here, and when popping, depending on the island, there is the possibility of catching big GTs. Make sure you travel during the right season if you want to target GTs in Bali!

Best season: October to May

Best fishing spots for Popping & Jigging in Bali

1. Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan

• Target species: Giant Trevally (GT), Dogtooth Tuna, Snapper
• Spot profile:  These islands southeast of Bali have deep waters with strong currents—perfect for catching big GTs. Monsters of 60kg have been caught here!

2. Lombok Strait

• Target species: Dogtooth Tuna, Amberjack, Grouper
• Spot profile: The strait between Bali and Lombok has deep waters and strong currents, making it an excellent spot for vertical jigging. Some monsterous amberjack lurk here in the deep.

3. Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, Gili Air)

• Target species: Giant Trevally, Barracuda, Snapper
• Spot profile: The reefs around the Gili Islands are rich in fish and offer excellent opportunities for GT popping. Some of the most untoiched fishing grounds in Bali!

5. Benoa & Serangan (South Bali)

• Target species: Giant Trevally, Barracuda, Spanish Mackerel
• Spot profile: Easily accessible from Denpasar, with many guided fishing charters available. Unfortunately there are not many big fish due to the fishing pressure.

6. Tulamben & Amed (East Bali)

• Target species: Amberjack, Dogtooth Tuna, Snapper
• Spot profile: This area has deep drop-offs and strong currents, making it perfect for jigging. Be sure to bring jigs over 400gr!

(In)Shore:

Snapper, GT, Barracuda, Bluefin Trevally

Offshore:

Popping: Giant Trevally, Spanish Mackerel, Red Sea Bass, Yellowfin (March-May)

Jigging: Amberjack, Jobfish, Dogtooth Tuna

Casting: Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi, Bluefin Trevally

Recommended lures: