Fishing in Sumatra Indonesia is a challenging the thrills of fishing adventure both saltwater and freshwater ranging from giants of Indian Ocean to the fierce of freshwater predatory. From giant trevally, giant grouper, sail fish, massive dogtooth tuna in Andaman sea to elusive mahseer in the rushing waters.
The most productive saltwater fishing ground are found ranging from Aceh waters, Mentawai Islands to Lampung drop off where the deep sea structures and volcanic characteristic create the perfect habitat for fierce predators. It is offer the great condition for popping, jigging, trolling and bottom based on your target fish to catch.
The best time to fish in Sumatra especially for saltwater is during the April to June while the sea a bit calm, October to November but the season can be change yearly based on the west monsoon and east monsoon. For freshwater the best time to catch the fish is during dry season from April to September.
Besides of offshore fishing, you can also experience nearshore fishing in Sumatra, Indonesia including the mangroves, reef flats, reef crest and coral edges conditions.
Wrote by: SWI Tour & Travel Team
Table of Contents
- Experience Deep Sea Fishing Trip & Sumatra Tours
- Best Saltwater Fishing Destinations
- Best Freshwater Fishing Destinations
- Costal & Nearshore Fishing Spots
- Best Time to Fish in Sumatra
- Best Fish to Catch in Sumatra
- How to Fish in Sumatra
- Sumatra Fishing Regulations
- Sustainable Fishing
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Experience Deep Sea Fishing in Aceh & Sumatra Tours
Get experience the thrill of catching fish in Sumatra. Contact our fishing team for any inquiries.
Aceh Saltwater Fishing
Ready to thrill of experience to hook the fierce predatory fish with us! We are offering the fishing adventure trip in Sumatra especially in Aceh Adventure. SWI Tour & Travel Medan together with Safari Wisata International is offer the amazing Sumatra fishing charter.
Fishing Charter: we have 5 kinds of boats, first larger fiber fishing boat with sleeping and bathroom, second boat is wooden boat with sleeping and bathroom, the third boat is fiberglass boats with 45Hp engine, 60hp & twin 150hp.
Facilities:GPS, Fish Finder, kitchen etc.
Recommend Tackle: Popping (Reels 14000 Shimano Stella or Daiwa Saltiga with braid line PE 8) Slow Jigging (Shimano Ocea Jigger PE 3 with 600 – 900gr jig) Jigging (spinning Daiwa Certate 5000-6000 with 80-150 jig or Certate SW 6000-8000)
Depth: Slow Jigging (100-200meters), Bottom & Light Jigging (40 – 120 meters)
Fish Target: Giant Trevally, Yellow fin tuna, Dogtooth tuna, sailfish, marlin, ruby snapper, giant grouper, bigeye trevally, wahoo, oil fish, mahi-mahi, amberjack, sweet-lip emperor, grouper and snapper.
Techniques: Popping, Jigging, Trolling, and Bottom fishing
Difficulty: Moderate – Professional
Aceh Spearfishing Trip
An Aceh spearfishing trip is the ideal choice for those who want to experience the thrill of spearfishing in one of Indonesia’s best locations. Located on Weh Island and West Coast of Aceh, these areas is famous for the beauty of its pristine seas and abundant marine life.
Weh Island offers a variety of spearfishing spots with distinct characteristics—ranging from shallow coral reefs and steep drop-offs to waters with strong currents that will get your adrenaline pumping.
For spearfishers, this area serves as a habitat for various species of reef fish and pelagic fish. Some of these include grouper, snapper, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, squid, and a variety of other tropical fish species.
Mount Sibayak Sunrise Hike
Fishing in Sumatra Indonesia isn’t the only exciting activity you can do. Tourists can also enjoy the beautiful sunrise from the summit of Mount Sibayak.
Mount Sibayak is located in Karo Regency, North Sumatra. It’s close to Berastagi. Mount Sibayak is one of the favorite hiking destinations for both local and international tourists.
Watching the sunrise from the summit of Mount Sibayak is the experience most eagerly anticipated by hikers. As dawn breaks, the sky slowly shifts to shades of orange and gold, blending with the panoramic view of the mountains of North Sumatra.
The beauty of the sunrise on Mount Sibayak is often cited as one of the best in the Sumatra region. For this reason, many hikers choose to start their journey in the early morning so they can reach the summit before sunrise.
Mount Sibayak hike has three main hiking trails to choose from, depending on the hiker’s skill level. First, the Jaranguda Trail is a popular route with fairly challenging terrain.
Second, the Semangat Gunung (Raja Berneh) trail features gentle terrain and is suitable for beginner hikers. Third, the 54 or Penatapan trail has steeper terrain and is rarely used.
The hike to the summit takes between 1.5 and 3 hours, depending on the chosen trail and the hiker’s physical condition.
Medan Lake Toba Tour Package
Tourists can also try the Medan Lake Toba tour package. This tour package is suitable for a wide range of travelers—from couples and families with children to community groups, corporate gatherings, and school field trips.
In addition to Lake Toba, tourists can also enjoy exploring other top tourist destinations in North Sumatra. Some of these include Samosir Island, Sipiso-piso Waterfall, Maimun Palace, Berastagi, Bukit Indah Simarjarunjung, and the Tomok Tourism Village.
The Medan-Lake Toba tour package can be tailored to fit tourists’ vacation plans. For example, there are 2-day, 1-night Lake Toba tour packages, 3-day, 2-night Lake Toba tour packages, and 4-day, 3-night Lake Toba tour packages.
The best time to visit Lake Toba is between April and October during the dry season. During this period, the weather tends to be sunny, the sky is bluer, and the lake’s panoramic views are at their best.
Sumatra Overland Tour
The Sumatra overland tour is a land-based travel package designed to explore various top destinations on the island of Sumatra in a single trip. The journey is conducted using land vehicles such as comfortable tour cars or tour buses.
This tour program typically lasts from a few days to two weeks. Travelers can choose from 7-day, 10-day, or 15-day packages depending on their needs.
An overland trip offers the opportunity to enjoy natural beauty while getting to know the local cultures of various regions in Sumatra. Some popular destinations frequently visited include Bukit Lawang, Gunung Leuser National Park, Lake Toba, Samosir Island, Aceh, Bukittinggi, and Harau Valley.
Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking
Bukit Lawang is a tourist village located on the banks of the Bahorok River in Langkat Regency, North Sumatra. It is situated about 86 kilometers from the city of Medan and is known as the gateway to Gunung Leuser National Park.
This area serves as a habitat for thousands of Sumatran orangutans. As part of a UNESCO-recognized conservation area, Bukit Lawang offers an authentic and sustainable nature tourism experience.
Bukit Lawang is home to one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest ecosystems. In addition to Sumatran orangutans, the area is also home to various rare animals such as Sumatran elephants, Sumatran rhinos, clouded leopards, gibbons, hornbills, and civets.
Bukit Lawang Jungle trekking is conducted with licensed local guides. Experienced local guides will help tourists explore the forest while safely observing wildlife.
There are various trekking route options in Bukit Lawang. First, a short trek along the route: Bukit Lawang – secondary forest – orangutan spot – back to the village.
Second, a one-day trek with the route: Bukit Lawang – Batu Kapal – Panorama Point – waterfall – Bahorok River – river tubing. Third, a deep jungle trek with the route: Landak River – Bahorok River – Jamur Batu – Kala Tongah – Gunung Tua – Batu Katak.
The dry season, from April through September, is the best time for trekking. This is because the trails are safer and not as slippery. In contrast, the period from December through February sees heavy rainfall, making the trekking terrain more challenging.
Book Your Adventure Tour Now!
Booking your adventure tour is very easy. If you’d like to experience the thrill of fishing in Sumatra Indonesia, enjoy the beautiful sunrise at the summit of Mount Sibayak, take a tour of Medan and Lake Toba, travel overland across Sumatra, or go trekking in Bukit Lawang, please contact us using the information below.
Whatsapp: +6281282334883
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Sumatra offer the incredible fishing spots from offshore fishing targeting giant trevally to freshwater angling in pristine lakes and rivers. Top destinations including Aceh, Mentawai, Lampung for saltwater and Wampu River, Alas River to Lake Toba caldera for freshwater. Here are the best places for fishing in Sumatra Indonesia:
Best Saltwater Fishing Destinations
Fishing in Sumatra Indonesia offers a variety of saltwater fish just waiting to be caught. There are many saltwater fishing destinations to visit in Sumatra. There are plenty of fishing spots ranging from deep sea or offshore, near shore, island fishing spots, fish aggregating device (FAD), atoll and many more with many sea contour.
Each destination features different types of fish and varying levels of fishing difficulty. Some popular destinations include Aceh, Mentawai, Nias Island, Lampung, Bintan Island, Padang, Belitung Island, Enggano Island, Lingga Island, and Simeulue Island. Here’s a closer look.
1. Aceh
Aceh’s waters border the Indian Ocean. The waters off Aceh feature strong ocean currents and a well-preserved marine ecosystem.
For this reason, Aceh’s waters serve as a habitat for various large predatory fish. Many offshore spots around Weh Island and in the waters west of Aceh are renowned for yielding trophy-class catches.
Fish Target: Giant Trevally, Yellow fin tuna, Dogtooth tuna, sailfish, marlin, ruby snapper, giant grouper, bigeye trevally, wahoo, oil fish, mahi-mahi, amberjack, grouper and snapper.
Techniques: Popping, Jigging, Trolling, and Bottom
Difficulty: Moderate – Professional
Reel & Lines Requires: 14,000 Shimano Stella or Daiwa Saltiga with PE 8 – 10 (Popping) Shimano Ocea Jigger 2001 for deep sea jigging. Daiwa Certate Spinning for light jigging at night with PE 3.
How to get to Aceh: Banda Aceh is accessible via direct flights from Jakarta, Medan, and several other major cities. You may also take a flight from Kuala Lumpur or Penang to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport. Upon arrival in Banda Aceh, you can continue your journey by boat to fishing spots around Weh Island or in the waters off the coast of Aceh.
2. Mentawai
The Mentawai Islands boast waters rich in coral reefs and migration routes for predatory fish. The relatively pristine marine environment makes this area one of the best locations for world-class sport fishing.
Fish Target: Giant Trevally (GT), yellowfin tuna, dogtooth tuna, wahoo, and Spanish mackerel.
Techniques: Trolling, Jigging, Popping
Difficulty: Moderate – Hard
Reel & Lines Requires: Reels sized 5000–8000, main line PE 3–5, leader 60–80 lb (jigging). Reels sized 8000–10,000, main line PE 5–8, leader 100–130 lb (popping).
How to get to Mentawai: The journey to the Mentawai Islands usually begins in the city of Padang. From Padang, tourists can take a speedboat to Siberut Island, Sipora, or other islands in the Mentawai Archipelago.
See Also:
- Fishing in Mentawai
- Best Time to Visit Mentawai
- Diving in Mentawai
- Spearfishing in Mentawai
- How to get to Mentawai
- Surfing in Mentawai
3. Nias Island
Nias Island is one of the best fishing destinations in Sumatra Indonesia because it offers deep waters teeming with predatory fish. Its location, facing directly onto the Indian Ocean, ensures an abundance of large pelagic fish.
Fish Target: Giant trevally, tuna, marlin, sailfish, and dogtooth tuna.
Techniques: Popping, Jigging, Trolling, and Live Bait Fishing
Difficulty: Moderate – Hard
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 5-8 for popping, reel size 8000-14000, braided line 50-100 lb, fluorocarbon leader 80-150 lb.
How to get Nias Island: Tourists can fly to Gunungsitoli from Medan. From there, the journey continues to the fishing spot in the desired area.
4. Lampung
Lampung has many top fishing spots, such as Lampung Bay, the Sunda Strait, and the waters around Sebesi Island. The diversity of marine habitats makes this region ideal for both beginner and professional anglers.
Fish Target: Mackerel, grouper, red snapper, giant trevally (GT), and cobia.
Techniques: Bottom Fishing, Casting, Jigging, and Trolling.
Difficulty: Low – Medium
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 2-5, reel 4000-8000, 30-60 lb braided line, 40-80 lb leader.
How to get to Lampung: Lampung can be reached by land from Java or by flying to Bandar Lampung.
5. Bintan Island
Thanks to its location in the Riau Islands, Bintan has access to waters rich in pelagic fish. In addition, the area offers a wide range of fishing tourism facilities.
Fish Target: Mackerel, rainbow runner, barracuda, queenfish, and grouper.
Techniques: Light Jigging, Bottom
Difficulty: Easy – Family
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 2-4, reel 3000-6000, braided line 20-50 lb, leader 30-60 lb.
How to get to Bintan Island: Bintan Island can be reached by flying to Tanjung Pinang or by taking a ferry from Batam and Singapore.
6. Padang
Padang is one of Sumatra’s must-visit fishing destinations. The waters off Padang are home to many small islands that serve as habitats for predatory fish. The diverse ocean conditions offer opportunities to fish using a variety of techniques.
Fish Target: Tuna, Giant Trevally (GT), Spanish mackerel, grouper, and even dogtooth tuna.
Techniques: Jigging, Popping, Trolling, and Bottom Fishing.
Difficulty: Intermediate – Advanced
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 4-8, large reel, 50-100 lb braided line, 80-150 lb leader.
How to get to Padang: Padang has direct flights from various major cities in Indonesia. From these cities, tourists can rent a boat to reach offshore spots.
7. Belitung Island
Belitung is known for its relatively calm waters and numerous granite island groups. The unique seabed structure creates an ideal habitat for a variety of fish species.
Fish Target: Snapper, grouper, mackerel, talang-talang, and even barracuda.
Techniques: Light Jigging, Bottom, Light Casting
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 2-5, reel 4000-6000, 30-60 lb braided line, 40-80 lb leader.
How to get to Belitung Island: You can travel to Belitung Island by taking a direct flight to Tanjung Pandan from Jakarta or several other major cities.
8. Enggano Island
Enggano Island is one of the fishing destinations that remains largely untouched by human activity. Low fishing pressure has resulted in an abundance of predatory fish.
Fish Target: Giant trevally (GT), tuna, marlin, dogtooth tuna, and wahoo.
Techniques: Casting,Popping, Jigging, and Trolling.
Difficulty: Moderate – Hard
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 6-10, heavy-duty reel, 80-120 lb braided line, 100-170 lb leader for popping. Rod PE 2-5, reel 4000-8000, 30-60 lb braided line, 40-80 lb leader for jigging.
How to get to Enggano Island: The journey begins in Bengkulu, traveling by ship to Enggano Island. Logistical preparations must be carefully planned, as facilities on the island are still limited.
9. Lingga Island
A fishing in Sumatra Indonesia wouldn’t feel complete without a visit to Lingga Island. The waters around Lingga Island lie along a strategic route rich in nutrients and feature many productive coral reef areas. These conditions support a year-round presence of predatory fish.
Fish Target: Mackerel, grouper, giant trevally (GT), rainbow runner, and even barracuda.
Techniques: Casting, Jigging, Trolling, and Bottom Fishing.
Difficulty: Moderate
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 3-6, reel 5000-10000, braided line 40-80 lb, leader 60-100 lb.
How to get to Lingga Island: Lingga Island can be reached by sea from Batam or Tanjung Pinang via passenger ferry.
10. Simeulue Island
Simeulue Island, located off the west coast of Sumatra, offers deep-sea waters with great fishing potential. Many international anglers come to this area to fish for large predatory fish, beside they also hunt for the great waves surf breaks. Simeulue Island is part of Aceh province.
Fish Target: Giant trevally, tuna, marlin, sailfish, and even dogtooth tuna.
Techniques: Popping, Jigging, Trolling, and Live Bait Fishing.
Difficulty: Moderate – High
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 6-10, reel size 10000-18000, braided line 80-120 lb, leader 100-170 lb for popping. Rod PE 2-5, reel 4000-8000, 30-60 lb braided line, 60-80 lb leader for jigging
How to get to Simeulue Island: Tourists can fly from Banda Aceh to Simeulue or take a boat from a port in Aceh. You can also fly from Kuala Namu Airport to Sinabang Airport.
Best Freshwater Fishing Destinations
Fishing in Sumatra Indonesia isn’t just famous for its saltwater fish. It also boasts many freshwater fishing spots that are favorites among anglers from various regions.
Sumatra is one of the best destinations for catching large freshwater fish. This is because the region features large rivers, volcanic lakes, and well-preserved natural waterways.
Sumatra has a lot of fishing location including river, lake, reservoir, swamp, estuaries, mangrove spot. Some of the best freshwater fishing destinations in Sumatra include the Kampar River, the Alas River, Lake Ranau, the Musi River, the Batanghari River, and Lake Toba. Here’s a closer look.
1. Kampar River
The Kampar River in Riau Province is known for its rich river ecosystem and serves as a habitat for various species of freshwater fish. The river is quite long, with many sections featuring both calm and fast-flowing currents.
These conditions offer anglers the opportunity to try a variety of fishing techniques. The Kampar River is famous for the Bono wave phenomenon. The river holds significant freshwater fishing potential and is a favorite among local anglers.
Fish Target: Basa fish, Asian redtail catfish, wallago catfish, river catfish, and even featherfin knifefish.
Techniques: Bottom Fishing, Casting, Drift Fishing, and bait fishing.
Difficulty: Moderate
Reel & Lines Requires: Medium- to heavy-action rod, size 3000–5000 reel, 20–40 lb braided line, 30–50 lb leader, medium- to large-sized hooks.
How to get to Kampar River: The trip can start from Pekanbaru. From the city center, head to Kampar Regency by land, which takes about 1–2 hours. The travel time depends on the location of the spot you choose.
See Also:
- Diving in Sumatra
- Snorkeling in Sumatra
- Surfing in Sumatra
- Trekking in Sumatra
- Best Beaches in Sumatra
2. Alas River
The Alas River flows through the Mount Leuser National Park. The Alas is one of the most pristine rivers in Sumatra. Aceh River is located in Southeast Aceh regency.
The well-preserved environment ensures that the freshwater fish population remains abundant. The views of the tropical forest surrounding the river are an added attraction for anglers who enjoy nature tourism. You may also have a change to meet Sumatra orangutans freely, Thomas leaf monkeys and many other Sumatra wildlife.
Fish Target: Mahseer, river carp, Asian redtail catfish, catfish, long whiskers catfish, golden mahseer, marbled sleeper fish, silver barb and snakehead.
Techniques: Casting, Fly Fishing, Bottom Fishing, and Natural Bait.
Difficulty: Moderate – High
Reel & Lines Requires: Medium-action rod, 2500–4000 reel, 15–30 lb line, 20–40 lb fluorocarbon leader, insect lures or live bait.
How to get to Alas River: Anglers can travel to Southeast Aceh Regency via Banda Aceh or Medan. From there, the journey continues to the Alas River area by land.
See Also:
- Sumatra Travel Guide
- Best Things to do in Sumatra
- Best Islands in Sumatra
- Best Volcanoes in Sumatra
- Best Mountains in Sumatra
3. Lake Ranau
Lake Ranau is located on the border between South Sumatra and Lampung. As a popular fishing spot in Sumatra, Lake Ranau is the second-largest lake on the island of Sumatra.
Its waters are vast and relatively calm. The lake is home to various species of edible fish as well as sport fish. The beautiful panoramic views of the mountains surrounding the lake make fishing even more enjoyable.
Fish Target: Tilapia, nile tilapia, jungle perch, snakehead, and Asian redtail catfish.
Techniques: Casting, bottom fishing, float fishing, and light trolling from a boat.
Difficulty: Low – Medium
Reel & Lines Requires: Light to medium fishing rods, 2000–4000 reels, 10–20 lb line, 15–30 lb leader.
How to get to Lake Ranau: Lake Ranau can be reached via Bandar Lampung or Palembang. The journey continues by land to the lake area.
See Also:
- Best Waterfalls in Sumatra
- National Parks in Sumatra
- Best Lakes in Sumatra
- Best Places to Visit in Sumatra
- Golf Courses in Sumatra
4. Musi River
The Musi is one of the largest rivers in Indonesia. The Musi River is home to a highly diverse range of habitats.
This river is home to various species of large freshwater fish that are highly sought after by anglers. Many promising fishing spots are scattered along the river’s course, particularly in areas with significant depth and complex riverbed structures. There are more than 150 species of fish consist of 3 zones including upstream, downstream and centre zone. The biggest fish is Wallago known as the king Musi river predator.
Fish Target: wallago catfish, giant snakehead, giant freshwater stingray (protected fish by government), featherfin knifefish (protected fish by government), Musi redtail catfish, bronze featherback, freshwater eel, climbing perch, kissing gourami, mahseer, barb, hampala barb, mystus catfish, shark catfish and many others.
Techniques: Bottom-fishing techniques, natural bait fishing, and casting in specific areas and fly fishing.
Difficulty: Moderate
Reel & Lines Requires: Heavy-action rod, size 4000–6000 reel, 30–60 lb braided line, 40–80 lb leader. You may also use ultralight fishing tackle.
How to get to Musi River: Anglers can travel to Palembang by air or by land. Many fishing spots can be accessed directly from the riverbanks or by boat.
See Also:
- Sumatra Hot Springs
- Best Time to Visit Sumatra
- Reason to Visit Sumatra
- Caving in Sumatra
- How to get to Sumatra
5. Batanghari River
The Batanghari River is the longest river in Sumatra. It flows through the provinces of Jambi and West Sumatra.
The river features many areas that serve as habitats for freshwater predatory fish. The presence of tributaries, swamps, and natural vegetation makes the Batanghari an attractive destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Fish Target: wallago catfish, featherfin knifefish, snakehead, mahseer, silver barb, redtail catfish, mad barb, Asian arowana (protected), ocellated snakehead, and many more.
Techniques: Casting, bottom fishing, bait fishing, and float fishing techniques.
Difficulty: Moderate
Reel & Lines Requires: Medium-heavy rod, 3000–5000 reel, 20–50 lb braided line, 30–60 lb leader.
How to get to Batanghari River: The easiest way to get there is via the city of Jambi. From there, anglers can head to various fishing spots along the Batanghari River.
See Also:
- Best Sumatra Foods to try
- Highest Mountains in Sumatra
- River Rafting in Sumatra
- Best Terrace Ricefield in Sumatra
- Best Cities in Sumatra
6. Lake Toba
Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in Southeast Asia. This fishing destination in Sumatra has become one of Indonesia’s iconic tourist attractions.
In addition to being famous for its natural beauty, Lake Toba also has enormous freshwater fishing potential. Its vast waters offer a wide variety of fishing spots with varying levels of difficulty.
Fish Target: Nile Tilapia, Tilapia, carp, goldfish, jungle perch, and catfish. At this time there is invasive fish in Lake Toba that become a problem. The invasive fish is not native fish to Lake Toba. The fish is Red Devil from Central America which is severe ecological threat to Lake Toba native fish species.
Techniques: Casting, float fishing and bottom fishing.
Difficulty: Low – Medium
Reel & Lines Requires: Light to medium fishing rods, 2000–4000-size reels, 10–20 lb line, 15–25 lb leader.
How to get to Lake Toba: Travelers can reach via Silangit Airport in Siborong-borong or Kualanamu Airport in Medan. From there, they can continue their journey by land to the Lake Toba area.
See Also:
- Things to do in Medan
- Things to do in North Sumatra
- Things to do in Berastagi
- Things to do on Lake Toba
- Things to do in Bukit Lawang
Costal & Nearshore Fishing Spots
Sumatra has an extremely long coastline with a variety of marine environments. Not only does it offer beautiful ocean views, but many coastal areas on the island of Sumatra also serve as habitats for high-value marine fish.
Interestingly, some fishing spots in Sumatra can be accessed directly from the shoreline without having to rent a boat. This makes them ideal for both beginner and experienced anglers. Here are some of the best coastal and near-shore fishing spots in Sumatra.
1. Lhok Me Beach, Aceh
Lhok Me Beach is one of the most famous beach destinations in Aceh Besar. The waters here are quite productive, featuring a mix of sandy bottoms, coral reefs, and shallow areas.
Lhok Me is a gathering place for various species of marine fish. The relatively calm conditions make this a comfortable spot for fishing, whether from the shoreline or the rocky areas along the coast.
Fish Target: Snapper, grouper, medium size GT, milkfish, golden trevally, barracuda, blue fin trevally and rainbow runner.
Techniques: Surf fishing, casting, bottom fishing, and jig cast fishing.
Difficulty: Low – Medium
Reel & Lines Requires: An 8- to 12-foot surf casting rod, a 3000- to 5000-size reel, 15- to 30-lb braided line, a 20- to 40-lb leader, and live shrimp or small fish as bait. You can also fish with ultralight tackle using baitcasting reel and minnow as the lure.
How to get to Lhok Me Beach, Aceh: Lhok Me Beach is located in Aceh Besar Regency. From Banda Aceh, the trip takes about 30–45 minutes by car via the road to Krueng Raya.
See Also:
- Things to do in Samosir
- Things to do in Batam
- Things to do in Padang
- Things to do in Bukittinggi
- Things to do in Palembang
2. Gandoriah Beach, West Sumatra
Gandoriah Beach is located in the city of Pariaman. Gandoriah is one of the most popular beaches in West Sumatra.
The area features a pier and a breakwater that are often favorite spots for anglers. The relatively stable ocean currents, combined with the man-made structures around the beach, create a habitat for various species of coastal fish.
Fish Target: Giant treavally, rainbow runner, snapper and rabbitfish.
Techniques: Casting, bottom fishing, float fishing, and light cast jig.
Difficulty: Low
Reel & Lines Requires: A medium-action rod, a 2500–4000-size reel, 15–25 lb line, a 20–30 lb leader, and shrimp or small fish as bait.
How to get to Gandoriah Beach, West Sumatra: Gandoriah Beach can be reached from the city of Padang by a road trip of about 1 to 1.5 hours to the city of Pariaman.
See Also:
- Things to do in Mentawai
- Things to do in Jambi
- Things to do in Lampung
- Things to do in Bengkulu
- Things to do in North Sumatra
3. Tureloto Beach
Tureloto Beach is located on the coast of Nias Island. Tureloto offers a combination of rocky beaches and fairly deep waters near the shoreline.
These conditions allow predatory fish to approach the coastal area, making the chances of catching large fish quite high. In addition to fishing, tourists can also enjoy the unspoiled ocean views.
Fish Target: Medium-sized giant trevally (GT), snapper, barracuda, and rainbow runner.
Techniques: Casting, light popping, cast jigging from coastal rocks, and bottom fishing.
Difficulty: Intermediate – Advanced
Reel & Lines Requires: PE rod 2-5, 4000-8000 reel, 30-50 lb braided line, and a 40-60 lb leader.
How to get to Tureloto Beach: The trip began with a flight to Gunungsitoli on Nias Island. From there, the journey continued by land to the Tureloto Beach area.
See Also:
4. Banyak Islands Beach
The Pulau Banyak Archipelago in Aceh Singkil is known as one of Sumatra’s favorite fishing destinations. Its clear waters, rich in coral reefs, support an abundance of both pelagic and reef fish.
There are many coastal spots where anglers can land high-quality catches—even without having to venture too far out to sea.
Banyak Islands also known as one of the best surfing destinations in Sumatra. Besides, the fishing, snorkelling and paddle board become popular.
Fish Target: Giant Trevally (GT), grouper, red snapper, mackerel, and even barracuda.
Techniques: Casting, popping, light cast jig and bottom fishing.
Difficulty: Medium
Reel & Lines Requires: Rod PE 2-4 or 3-6, reel 5000-10000, 40-80 lb braided line, with a 50-100 lb leader.
How to get to Banyak Islands: The trip can begin in Banda Aceh or Medan and head to Aceh Singkil. From the port of Singkil, tourists continue their journey by boat to the Banyak Islands.
See Also:
- Fishing in Lake Toba
- Fishing in Lake Ranau
- Fishing in Bukit Lawang
- Fishing in Tangkahan
- Fishing in Kampar River
5. Krui Beach, Lampung
Krui Beach is located on the west coast of Lampung. Krui is famous as a world-class surfing destination.
However, this area also offers excellent fishing opportunities because it faces the Indian Ocean directly. Ocean currents rich in nutrients draw predatory fish to the coastal areas and reefs.
Fish Target: Giant Trevally (GT), mackerel, snapper, barracuda, and grouper.
Techniques: Surf casting, popping, minnow casting, and bottom fishing.
Difficulty: Intermediate – Advanced
Reel & Lines Requires: A surf casting rod (PE 3–6), a 5000–10,000-size reel, 30–80 lb braided line, a 50–100 lb leader, and live bait or saltwater lures.
How to get to Krui Beach, Lampung: Krui Beach can be reached from Bandar Lampung via a road trip of about 5–6 hours. Another option is to fly into Muhammad Taufiq Kiemas Airport in Pesisir Barat.
See Also:
- Fishing in Palembang
- Fishing in Jambi
- Fishing in Lampung
- Fishing in Pekanbaru
- Fishing in Bengkulu
- Fishing in North Sumatra
Best Time to Fish in Sumatra
Fishing in Sumatra Indonesia is indeed an exciting activity. However, fishing isn’t something you can do at any time.
There are certain months when fishing is highly recommended or prohibited. This is not only to take into account natural factors that affect fish populations but also to ensure safety and security.
Best Months
Generally speaking, the best time for fishing in Sumatra Indonesia is from April through October. During this period, most of Sumatra enters the dry season or the transition period from the rainy season to the dry season.
More stable weather conditions make the fish more active. In addition, water turbidity tends to decrease, making it easier for fish to find bait. This also makes it easier for anglers to identify promising fishing spots.
1. April – Juni
This period marks a transition following the rainy season. River flow begins to stabilize.
Many fish emerge from their hiding places to feed. For freshwater fish species that are quite active during this period wallago catfish, snakehead, mahseer, silver barb, and redtail catfish.
These months also a good time to catch the fish in off shore. Some part of the Sumatra waters has migration of fish such as tuna and other pelagic fish.
2. Juli – September
Many anglers consider this period to be the peak of the fishing season in various parts of Sumatra. The weather is relatively clear, and the currents are calmer. During these months, the chances of catching large fish are usually higher because the fish are feeding more actively.
3. Oktober
October is still a great month for fishing before rainfall begins to increase in some areas. The water remains relatively clear,keeping the fish active as they search for food.
Best Time of The Day
In addition to choosing the right month, the time of day also has a significant impact on your catch. Here are the best times for fishing in Sumatra Indonesia.
1. Early Morning (05.30 – 09.00)
The morning is one of anglers’ favorite times of day. The water temperature is still relatively warmer, so the fish are more active and on the hunt for food.
2. Late Afternoon (16.00 – 18.30)
As sunset approaches, many species of fish become active again in search of food. This time of day often yields fairly consistent bites, especially in rivers and lakes. This time is also perfect for near shore fishing while the sea water tends to be warmer in the late afternoon and fish actively hunt the prey.
3. Night Fishing (19.00 – 23.00) and (01.00 – 03.00)
For some types of predatory fish, nighttime is the best time to land a big catch. Anglers who prefer bottom fishing techniques or night jigging often take advantage of this period because many fish emerge from their hiding places. Saltwater fish are also very active at this time, such as barracuda, bigeye trevally, and dogtooth tuna.
See Also:
- Fishing in West Sumatra
- Fishing in South Sumatra
- Fishing in Bangka Belitung
- Fishing in Enggano Island
- Fishing in Nias Island
Considerations
Although there are certain months and times of day that are best time to fish in Sumatra, there are several factors to consider. These factors are important not only for catching plenty of fish but also for ensuring safety while fishing.
1. Rainy Season
During the rainy season, river flow typically increases. In addition, the water becomes murkier. These conditions can affect fish behavior. Due to strong currents, fish tend to move to calmer areas.
The effectiveness of bait decreases as water visibility declines. Some of wild fishing spots also become harder to reach.
The rainy season sometimes affect the saltwater fishing. Sometimes make the fish more aggressive to hunt the prey for deep sea fishing. But it is not really good for top water fishing.
2. Decreased Fish Activity
During extreme weather or sudden changes in weather, some fish become less active in their search for food. This often occurs when heavy rain falls for an extended period, air pressure changes drastically, or strong winds prevail over the water.
3. Tides in Coastal Areas
For saltwater and estuary anglers in Sumatra, tidal conditions greatly influence fish activity. Generally, the period just before high tide and the beginning of low tide are quite productive times.
4. Water Conditions
Water that is too murky or flows too fast often makes it harder to spot fish. Conversely, stable water conditions that aren’t too murky usually result in a better catch. At the certain times, the seawaters become cold and the fish is not active to hunt the prey.
Best Fish to Catch in Sumatra
There are various types of fish you can catch while fishing in Sumatra Indonesia, including both saltwater and freshwater species. However, not all catches are the best. To make your fishing experience even more memorable, here is a list of the best fish to catch in Sumatra’s waters.
Saltwater Fish
The best saltwater fish to catch include giant trevally, marlin, giant grouper, yellowfin tuna, dogtooth tuna, mahi-mahi, amberjack, sailfish, grouper, and snapper.
1. Giant Trevally (GT)
The Giant Trevally, or GT, is one of the most famous game fish in the world of sport fishing. This fish is known for its strength and aggressiveness when striking a lure.
The waters off Sumatra that serve as the GT’s habitat include the Aceh Waters, Mentawai Islands, Simeulue, and Nias. When hooked, this fish puts up a fight that tests the angler’s skills and the quality of the equipment used.
2. Marlin
Marlin are icons of deep-sea fishing and are commonly found in the waters of the Indian Ocean. These fish can weigh hundreds of kilograms. It’s no wonder, then, that marlin are a prime target for professional anglers.
Marlin are fast swimmers and are capable of spectacular leaps above the ocean’s surface. This makes the battle against a marlin an unforgettable fishing experience.
3. Giant Grouper
Giant groupers are commonly found in coral reef areas and rocky waters. This species is known for its great strength and often tries to squeeze into crevices in the reef after being hooked.
Giant groupers are a sought-after catch at various fishing spots in Sumatra. This is because they are large and their meat is highly prized.
4. Yellow Fin Tuna
Yellowfin tuna is one of the most popular pelagic fish in the world. This fish is often found in schools in the waters off the coast of Sumatra.
In addition to its impressive size, the yellowfin tuna is also known for its speed and tenacity during a fight. This is what makes this species highly sought after by sport fishermen.
5. Dogtooth Tuna
The dogtooth tuna is known as one of the toughest opponents in tropical waters. This fish is often found near drop-offs, steep reefs, and deep waters.
Its fighting power is considered extreme. This is why many anglers consider the dogtooth tuna one of the most challenging fish to catch.
6. Mahi-mahi
Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphinfish, have brightly colored bodies. In addition to being known for their beauty, these fish are also famous for being very active and aggressive when hunting prey. The waters off the coast of Sumatra are one of the best places to find mahi-mahi, especially around floating objects or areas teeming with small fish.
7. Ruby Snapper
Ruby snapper is a popular target for some anglers. This fish is commonly found in coral reefs, underwater structures, and waters with rocky bottoms.
Ruby snapper is also known for putting up a strong fight when caught. In addition, it has good quality meat, making it one of the most valuable fish for consumption.
8. Amberjack
Amberjack are known as tenacious fighters because of their strength. They often inhabit deep waters around coral reefs and shipwrecks.
When hooked, amberjack typically put up a strong fight, pulling toward the seafloor. Successfully landing one requires the proper technique and equipment to control it.
9. Sailfish
When fishing in Sumatra Indonesia, the sailfish is one of the most sought-after catches. The sailfish is one of the fastest fish in the world.
Its large dorsal fin resembles a ship’s sail. This characteristic makes the species easily recognizable.
In addition to its impressive speed, the sailfish is also known for its acrobatic maneuvers as it tries to break free from the hook. This makes it a highly attractive target for sport fishermen.
10. Grouper & Snapper
Various species of grouper and snapper can be found along nearly the entire coastline of Sumatra. These two groups of fish are the primary targets for recreational anglers.
Not only they relatively easy to find, but grouper and snapper also provide an exhilarating strike sensation. Their combination of varied sizes and high culinary value makes grouper and snapper the favorite choice for many anglers.
Freshwater & Brackish
The best freshwater and brackish-water fish in Sumatra’s waters to catch include mahseer, barramundi, snakehead, hampala barb, and catfish.
1. Mahseer
The mahseer is often referred to as the king of river fish in Asia. This fish inhabits clear, fast-flowing rivers.
The mahseer is both powerful and fast when fighting an angler. Because of these characteristics, the mahseer is one of the most coveted freshwater fish to catch in the waters of Sumatra.
2. Barramundi
Barramundi, also known as white snapper, can be found in estuaries, lagoons, and brackish waters. This fish is famous for its ability to leap out of the water when hooked.
These characteristics make barramundi a top target for casting and lure fishing enthusiasts. When fishing in Sumatra, be sure to include barramundi on your catch list.
3. Snakehead
Snakehead is a freshwater fish species with fierce fighting while hook up. It is one of the most sought-after freshwater catches. Its habitat spans rivers, swamps, and estuaries.
4. Hampala Barb
The hampala barb is a freshwater predator known for its aggressiveness. This fish is commonly found in the pristine rivers of Sumatra. Its swift strikes on artificial lures make the hampala a popular target for casting anglers.
5. Catfish
Catfish are a species commonly found in various rivers, swamps, and calm waters throughout Sumatra. Although often considered an ordinary fish, large wild catfish can put up a good fight when caught. In addition, their abundant population makes catfish an attractive choice for both beginner and professional anglers.
How to Fish in Sumatra
Fishing methods in Sumatra are very diverse. There are many techniques that can be used, ranging from popping, jigging, slow-pitch jigging, trolling, bottom fishing, to fly fishing. Each fishing technique is tailored to the type of fish being targeted and the conditions of the water.
1. Popping Technique
The popping technique is a fishing method that uses an artificial lure called a popper, which is worked on the water’s surface. It works by periodically jerking the popper, creating splashes and sounds that attract the attention of predatory fish.
This technique is highly effective in the open ocean, coral reefs, and around the small islands commonly found in Sumatra. Target fish commonly caught using the popping technique include Giant Trevally (GT), yellowfin tuna and barracuda.
For optimal results, use a rod with high lifting power and a reel with a strong drag system. Anglers should also pay attention to the rhythm of the retrieve so that the popper’s movement appears natural and provokes aggressive behavior in predatory fish.
2. Jigging Technique
Jigging is a fishing technique that uses a metal jig worked vertically in the water. The lure is dropped to a certain depth and then moved up and down using a combination of rod pulls and reel turns.
This technique is widely used in the deep waters off Sumatra, which feature a seabed composed of coral reefs or trenches. Jigging is effective for catching fish such as amberjack, grouper, snapper, tuna, and mackerel.
The advantage of this technique lies in its ability to reach fish at different depths. The weight of the jig must be adjusted according to the water depth and current strength to ensure optimal lure movement.
3. Slow Pitch Jigging
Slow-pitch jigging is one of the most reliable techniques for fishing in Sumatra. As a popular technique among sport fishermen, slow-pitch jigging is an evolution of conventional jigging.
The difference lies in the slower movement of the jig, which mimics a wounded or exhausted fish. This technique is highly effective when fish are passive and not aggressively chasing prey.
By using a specialized slow-pitch rod and a symmetrical jig, anglers can create a sinking motion that attracts the attention of predatory fish. In various waters across Sumatra, this technique is often used to catch red snapper, giant grouper, and even ruby snapper.
In addition, various types of demersal fish that live on the seafloor can also be caught using slow-pitch jigging. Not only is this technique energy-efficient, but it also yields fairly consistent catches under certain conditions.
4. Trolling Technique
Trolling is a fishing method that involves dragging bait behind a moving boat. The bait used can be either artificial or natural, designed to move like small fish.
Trolling is very popular in the waters of the Malacca Strait, the Mentawai Islands, and western Sumatra. These waters are known for their abundant populations of pelagic fish.
Some of the fish species commonly targeted include tuna, mackerel, mahi-mahi, marlin, and wahoo. The boat’s speed is a crucial factor in trolling because it significantly affects the bait’s movement in the water.
Anglers typically use multiple rods at once. The goal is to increase the chances of a strike while searching for schools of fish.
5. Bottom Technique
Fishing in Sumatra Indonesia is closely associated with the bottom technique. The bottom technique is one of the simplest fishing methods, yet it remains effective in terms of catch.
The bait is placed on the bottom of the water using a weight, ensuring it stays in the area where fish are feeding. This technique can be used in the ocean, rivers, and lakes found throughout various regions of Sumatra.
The target fish are also very diverse, ranging from snapper, grouper, patin, baung, catfish, and other species.
The advantage of the bottom technique is its simplicity, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers. The size of the sinker should be adjusted according to current conditions to ensure the bait stays in the desired spot.
In addition, using fresh bait is also worth considering. Examples include shrimp, small fish, worms, or pieces of squid. These baits often increase the chances of catching large fish.
6. Casting Fishing
Casting is one of the fishing technique similar to popping but smaller lure applied with medium to ultralight fishing tackle. This technique is simply throw the lure like minnow, spoon, cast jig, crankbait or other soft lure like jump frog or cricket artificial lure to certain spot and retrieve the line so that the lure act naturally. The variation of spooling depends on the type of lures.
There are many casting methods including overhead cast, sidearm cast, pitching and flipping. The casting tackle has 2 kinds, baitcasting reel and spinning reel with certain ratio design especially for casting.
7. Fly Fishing
Fly fishing is a fishing technique that uses lightweight artificial lures called flies. This technique relies on the ability to cast a special line to present the lure naturally on or below the water’s surface.
In Sumatra, fly fishing is gaining popularity, especially in clear-flowing rivers and water bodies that serve as habitats for freshwater predatory fish. Species commonly targeted include hampala barb, mahseer, giant snakehead, and several other river fish.
Fly fishing requires more practice and skill than other fishing techniques. However, the thrill of the fight makes this technique particularly appealing to anglers.
In addition to offering a more challenging fishing experience, fly fishing is also often considered an environmentally friendly method. This is because most anglers practice catch-and-release.
Sumatra Fishing Regulations
The waters around Sumatra are indeed rich in a variety of fish species. However, every angler remains responsible for complying with applicable regulations to ensure the sustainability of Sumatra’s aquatic ecosystems.
Understanding fisheries regulations when fishing in Sumatra is an important step to ensure that fishing activities remain safe, legal, and environmentally friendly. In addition, compliance with these regulations also helps maintain stable fish populations for future generations.
Fisheries regulations are designed to protect fish stocks from overfishing. If fishing activities are carried out without control, fish populations can decline drastically, impacting the balance of the aquatic ecosystem.
When fishing in Sumatra waters, it is prohibited to use fishing gear that damages the environment. In addition, you must comply with size limits on the fish you may take home.
Do not catch certain fish species whose populations are declining. Furthermore, fishing is prohibited during the spawning season in certain areas.
You must comply with the conservation regulations in effect in local waters. By following these rules, anglers help ensure the sustainability of Sumatra’s fishery resources.
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- Surbaya Tour Package
- Padang Tour Package
- Aceh Tour Package
- Sumatra Holiday Packages
- Bali Tour Package
- Lombok Tour Package
- Yogyakarta Tour Package
- Mentawai Tribe Tour
Sustainable Fishing
We highly recommend to catch and release for specific species to maintain the population of fish in Sumatra.
By releasing fish that are still reproductive or large in size, the chances of reproduction in the wild can continue. For the catch-and-release process to be effective, there are several things to keep in mind.
First, use hooks that minimize injury to the fish. Second, wet your hands before handling the fish.
Third, avoid keeping the fish out of the water for too long. Fourth, release the fish carefully so it can swim away normally. Fifth, minimize the use of equipment that can cause serious injury to the fish.
FAQs
A: March to October for saltwater
A: No permit is required if fishing is for recreational purposes or personal consumption and takes place in public waters. A permit is required if fishing takes place in waters used for tourism or recreation. Permits can be obtained through the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) via E-Mancing system.
A: GT, Tuna, Ruby Snapper, Marlin, Sailfish, Grouper & Snapper for saltwater. Mahseer, barb and catfish for freshwater.
A: we have some tackle, but we recommend you to bring your own.
A: Sure. You may bring your own fishing tackle.
A: Grouper and snapper became the easiest target to catch.
A: For saltwater fish that are difficult to catch, such as marlin, giant trevally (GT), giant grouper, oil fish and wahoo.
A: The best and popular places for fishing in Sumatra are Aceh waters, Metawai Islands, Nias Island and many more.
A: There are many local boat you may rent. You may also book professional fishing trip all-inclusive.
A: it depends on target fish, for GT fishing, the best fishing technique is GT Popping or Top water fishing. Others types of fishing methods including jigging, slow pitch jigging, trolling, bottom fishing and casting.
A: we are offering all-inclusive fishing trip only.
A: we are offering multiple days fishing trip for better experience.
A: sure. You may have fishing trip combine with tour. You may also have the fishing trip combine with other activities such as snorkeling, diving and so on. For example: 4 days 3 nights tour with 1 day fishing, snorkelling trip and land tour.
A: It depends on how many anglers will join the trip. If there are 4 person, 2 days 1 night fishing stay on board with 4 days 3 nights travel all-inclusive cost between SGD 448 to SGD 500 per person (MYR 1,475 – 1,650) depends on currency rates, fuel cost, etc.
A: you may bring your own batteries is better.
Conclusion
Fishing in Sumatra Indonesia offers an exciting fishing experience with a wide variety of freshwater and saltwater fish. This activity allows anglers to use various techniques depending on the conditions of the water. However, compliance with fishing regulations and efforts to preserve the ecosystem remain crucial.