Epic Fishing Tours in Vava’u
Anglers that discover Vava’u often don’t want to leave, which is the story of most fishing charter operators across Vava’u! As you jump onboard a charter with one of the islands’ experienced guides, you’ll hear the stories of the amazing billfish fishing and opportunities to catch other giant pelagics of the tropics that made them never want to turn back. Experience the excitement of fishing in Vava’u for yourself by choosing one of these epic fishing charters in Vava’u.
While you’re here, you might also be interested in The Luxury Guide to Vava’u.
1. Big Fish Vava’u
Join Big Fish Vava’u on their 31 Express walk-around vessel providing excellent fishing from every angle of the boat! The team specialise in Vava’u sports and game fishing with Shimano 50W and 80W reels with Calstar stroker rods to give you maximum advantage against the big ones. Target sailfish, mahimahi, wahoo and tuna or try your hand at jigging tackle to target giant trevally, dogtooth tuna and jobfish. Both stand-up game fishing and sports fishing charters offered by Big Fish Vava’u include snacks, fruit, lunch and bottled water.
2. Kiwi Magic Tonga
Troll for game fish species with skipper Keith McKee aboard the Kiwi Magic. The long-established game fishing operator in Vava’u has all the set-up for an awesome day on the water, including a custom-built heavy duty game fishing chair and heavy tackle, from 60kg Avet reels to 60kg Shimano Tiagra bent butt rods. The boat is a 34ft Mariner sport fisher with a large fishing cockpit with a shade for sun/rain protection. The vessel also has a toilet and shower on board.
3. Tongan Expeditions
The Vava’u operator that offers just about any activity on the water, Tongan Expeditions is another great choice for sports fishing in Vava’u. Guests have their choice of popper fishing, game fishing and bottom fishing. Their boat, the Hakuna Matata, is a 30ft US Coastal Fisherman powered by twin Volvo D3-190 inboard engines. Alternatively, they also have an Extreme 610 Centre Console powered by twin Yamaha 70hp 4-stroke engines. The team also offer whale swimming in the season (July to October) as well as scuba diving excursions.
4. Hakula Lodge
After spending 25 years in Vava’u, the team at Hakula Lodge has a wealth of knowledge about the local hotspots for fishing. Tours depart from Hakula Lodge’s private dock, a short drive south of Neiafu, where you’ll jump onboard Monu’la for a day of targeting GTs, mahimahi, wahoo and Spanish mackerel. Within five minutes of leaving the dock, you’ll be running some small lures for marlin then later setting up three FADs for catching bigger pelagics. The boat has both light and heavy tackle and a chair for taking on the larger game fish. The charter also includes morning tea, lunch and drinking water. Learn more about the lodge in the 8 Best Luxury Accommodation in Vava’u.
5. Target One Fishing Charters
Join the team from Target One Fishing Charters for a day of fishing according to your wants and skill level. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned angler, Henk and the team will ensure you have a successful day catching anything from marlin to yellowfin tuna. Each day is different, where Henk will take you to the best spots according to the conditions and what’s in season. This charter is best suited for groups of two to four people. Learn more about the fishing seasons in What is the Best Time of Year for Fishing in Tonga.
6. Poppin’ Tonga
Based at Lucky’s Beach House at the bottom of ‘Utungake Island, Poppin’s Tonga is renowned for its Giant Trevally fishing. Your guide, Kurt, has more than 15 years GT fishing in Hawaii and 15 years of finding the best GT fishing spots across Vava’u. Tours are on the small boat, Lupo, a Boston Whaler Montauk 17 powered by a Yamaha 60 HP 4-stroke and ideal for two anglers. Poppin’ Tonga offers rates for bareboat fishing charters, as well as fishing charters with all the gear and guidance supplied. Land fishing tours are also available. Learn more about Lucky’s Beach House in the 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Vava’u.
7. Rambo 1
Operating out of the Dream Island Resort, as well as offering pick-ups at other resorts, Rambo 1 sets you up for excellent fishing in Vava’u. The crew mostly targets blue marlin but can help you catch your desired game species. They offer half-day and full-day charters with all the safety gear and fishing gear included. They use four TICATEAM 2-speed system 37kg (81lb) fishing gears and two TICATEAM high-speed 15/24kg (33/55lb) fishing gears, as well as a GPS fish finder. Tours include lunch and water. Learn more about the Dream Island Resort in The Adult-Only Guide to Vava’u.
8. Blue Marlin Magic
Join a passionate fisherman (and author of a fishing book) on the Blue Marlin Magic. Your skipper, Steve Campbell, has been fishing these waters since 2000 and has pulled in some 2,000 blue marlins and counting. While he’s a blue marlin specialist, you can also target other game species if you like. Blue Marlin Magic operates to sustainable fishing practices including the IGFA & TIGFA guidelines and promotes catch and release. The boat, a 34ft Luhrs Sport Fish Convertible, is set up for serious fishing with light and heavy tackle, game chairs, fish boxes, live bait, Rupp outriggers and much more.
9. Vava’u Sport Fishing Charters
Join the crew on the Fighting Lady, a Pelin custom-built 30ft sport fisher fitted out for some serious sport and game fishing. Their charter vessel is designed for two to four anglers, while the boat can be privately hired out for up to 10 people. They supply all of your standard fishing tackle and refreshments throughout the day but encourage serious anglers to bring their own lures, jugs and poppers if they prefer.
10. Dive Tonga
Apart from scuba diving, snorkelling and swimfaris, Dive Tonga also operates spearfishing charters. Whether you’re a beginner or wanting to target game fish, Dive Tonga can tailor a spearfishing trip to suit you. Trips come with the Rob Allen guns, floats and lines provided and operate a spearfishing buddy policy for safety. The charters are half-day charters for up to six people.
More About Fishing Charters in Vava’u
Author
Laura S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Tonga Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Tonga. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Tonga’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.