Mahi – Mahi Fishing Tour at North Bali Indonesia

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Bali with the promise of catching tropical game fish like Mahi Mahi, Trevally, or Snapper, this Mahi-Mahi Fishing Tour from Ubud might just tick all the boxes. It offers a full-day experience with local expert guides, traditional boats, and all the gear included. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete beginner, this tour promises a blend of adventure, scenic views, and the thrill of the catch.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines authentic local fishing techniques with the chance to witness Bali’s stunning sunrise and dolphin sightings. On the flip side, one aspect to consider is that it’s a long early morning trip, which might not suit everyone’s sleep schedule or stamina. This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy adventure on the water and want to learn from local fishermen while enjoying the natural beauty of North Bali.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with Indonesian fishermen leading the trip
• Early morning departure maximizes chances of catching fish and seeing dolphins
• All equipment and boat provided, making it hassle-free for participants
• Private hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience and comfort
• Limited to ages 15-60, so it’s suitable for most active travelers
• Cost-effectiveness for a full-day adventure with expert guidance and gear included

Introduction: Why This Fishing Tour Stands Out

This Mahi-Mahi fishing tour offers a genuine chance to fish in the waters of North Bali, led by experienced local fishermen who know their spots and techniques. The experience is designed to be straightforward and inclusive, with all the necessary gear provided, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s a good choice if you’re eager for a full day of adventure, scenic views, and the possibility of hooking a prize fish like a mahi mahi that can weigh over 25 kg, according to one enthusiastic reviewer.

The highlight of the experience is the early morning start, which many find essential for success on these waters. As one reviewer shared, “We had great results, including 6 mahi mahi, with two very big ones,” thanks to the knowledgeable guides and prime fishing conditions early in the day. The tour also offers an opportunity for dolphin sightings en route, making it more than just a fishing trip—it’s a full marine experience.

However, keep in mind that this is a long and early trip, with transfers starting around 3:30 to 5 am, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with early starts and moderate physical activity. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic fishing experiences and scenic ocean views but might not be ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $120 per person covers a lot of ground, making it a value-packed trip. Included are private hotel pickup and drop-off, all necessary fishing equipment (rods, reels, hooks, life jackets), and bait such as mullets or squids. This means you won’t need to worry about bringing your gear or handling logistics, allowing you to focus entirely on the experience.

You’ll want to bring your own breakfast, as the trip starts early and breakfast isn’t included. Local restaurants at Lovina offer lunch options for around $15-$20, which you can enjoy after fishing, providing a chance to relax and reflect on your catches.

Not included are personal expenses, tips, or additional snacks, so packing a water bottle, some snacks, sunscreen, and a change of clothes is highly recommended—especially since the weather can be warm and sunny.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Transfer: Your day begins with a pickup from your Ubud hotel around 3:30 to 5 am, depending on your location. The drive to Lovina Beach takes about an hour, giving you a chance to catch some early morning scenery and perhaps sneak in a nap.

Lovina Beach and the Boat Ride: Upon arrival, you’ll meet your local fishing guide and board a traditional Jukung boat. These boats might be modest in size but are thoughtfully equipped with all necessary gear, making it easy for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. The ride out to the fishing spots lasts around an hour, during which you’ll enjoy the chance to see dolphins or just soak up the sunrise over the ocean—an experience many reviewers called “beautiful” and “breathtaking.”

Fishing at Prime Spots: Once at the designated fishing spots—more than 20 around Lovina Beach—the guides will assist with setting up your gear and give tips on technique. We loved the way the guides were both knowledgeable and encouraging, making it accessible for first-timers. One reviewer noted, “I had no fishing experience, but I still managed to land my first fish, a beautiful mahi mahi,” highlighting how supportive the guides are.

The Catch and the Excitement: Expect the water to come alive with activity when a fish bites. The thrill of watching a mahi mahi perform acrobatic jumps is something you’ll never forget. According to reviews, the guides are excellent at helping you land your catch, and some guests even caught big mahi mahi weighing over 25 kg—a prize worth bragging about.

Return and Relaxation: After approximately 8 hours on the water, you’ll head back to Lovina Beach, then transfer back to your hotel, with the journey lasting about an hour. The trip ends with plenty of time to relax, shower, and perhaps enjoy a seaside lunch.

Authenticity and Guides: What Sets This Tour Apart

Travelers consistently praise the local fishermen leading the tour, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. This hands-on guidance makes all the difference, especially for beginners who may feel unsure about fishing techniques. The guides also share insights about the best fishing spots, which adds an educational component that many find valuable.

One reviewer remarked, “The guides were great, helping me set up my gear and even giving tips on how to reel in the fish,” which shows how the experience offers more than just fishing—it’s also about learning and enjoying the ocean environment.

Scenery and Marine Life

Beyond fishing, the tour provides stunning views of Bali’s northern coastline and the chance to spot dolphins during your boat ride—though, as one review pointed out, dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed since the main focus is fishing. Nevertheless, the sunrise over the water and the vibrant water make for incredible photo ops and memorable moments.

The traditional boats, with their vivid colors and simple design, add to the charm, providing an authentic fishing experience that feels close to the Bali fishing tradition. Many guests appreciated sitting on the boat, feeling the warm breeze, and soaking up the peaceful yet lively marine environment.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Arrive prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. The early start means you’ll want to be ready for a long day.
• Pack light, quick-drying clothes, preferably long-sleeve to protect against the sun.
• If prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand.
• The tour is limited to ages 15-60, so it’s best suited for most active travelers but not recommended for very young children or older adults with mobility issues.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring a change of clothes for after the trip.
• The weather can influence the fishing, so be flexible—your captain has the authority to cut the trip short if conditions turn unsafe.

What Reviewers Are Saying

One reviewer described the experience as “an unforgettable fishing session,” emphasizing how even beginners managed to catch impressive fish thanks to the guides’ support. Another shared that they caught six mahi mahi, including two very large ones, and highly recommended the trip for great results and a fun team atmosphere.

The guides received praise for their expertise and friendliness, making every guest feel confident and engaged. The chance to photograph the sunrise, dolphins, and vibrant water rounds out the appeal, making this more than just a fishing trip but a memorable marine adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Mahi-Mahi fishing tour offers genuine value for those who enjoy marine activities and want to connect with local traditions. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who don’t mind an early start and are eager to learn fishing techniques from seasoned local guides.

It’s especially suitable for families with teens, provided they are comfortable with water-based activities and moderate physical exertion. The all-inclusive nature—gear, boat, and guide support—means you can relax and focus on the fun.

However, if you’re not fond of early mornings or long boat rides, or if you’re traveling with very young kids or older adults, this might not be the best fit. Still, for anyone craving a full-day marine adventure that combines scenic beauty, local culture, and the chance to land a prized catch, this tour offers a solid and authentic option.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am, with pickup times from your hotel around 3:30 to 5 am, depending on your location.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it very convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a water bottle, snacks, a change of clothes, and petty cash for extras or lunch. Don’t forget your camera!

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and supportive, and many reviews mention guests with no fishing experience landing their first fish.

How long is the fishing trip?
The total duration is about 8 hours, including boat ride, fishing, and return transfer.

Is dolphin sighting guaranteed?
No, dolphins are not guaranteed, but the ride offers great opportunities and stunning sunrise views.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic pick for those wanting an authentic, guided fishing experience in North Bali, with the added bonus of scenic ocean views and the possibility of catching a big one.