Known for its cuisine, Thailand depends heavily upon the fishing industry to provide food for its people. The southern peninsula is nestled between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Two major rivers keep Thailand well irrigated. The Mekong River and the Chao Phraya River are the two major rivers through the country. They have been fished for years by the local populace for food, and are considered important waterways for transportation. Both of these rivers begin in the highlands and flow south toward the sea.
While the major rivers may have been fished for centuries, they have tributaries that contribute water and fish. Along these tributaries are quiet areas just made for fishing. It may take a trek through the jungle, but these hidden gems are well worth visiting. For those that prefer to fish off the boat, there are a variety of lakes throughout the country. Fishing and boating have long been part of the Thai way of life.
Not all fishing is done in fresh water. The long southern border of the country lies along the Gulf of Thailand, just off the South China Sea. The long southwestern peninsula also borders the gulf on the eastern side and the Andaman Sea on its western shores. Whether a fisherman’s wish is to fish from shore or go out on a boat, there are still plenty of fish left to catch in Thailand’s seas. Giant trevally and dorado are favorites when fishing the Andaman Sea. Among the reefs and islands, sailfish, Spanish mackerel, tuna and wahoo are just a few of the fish that can be caught from a boat.
No matter what type of fishing a person enjoys, Thailand is an adventure waiting for them to arrive. There are guided boat trips and fishing expeditions available for fresh and salt water fishing.
