Fishing in Guam

Guam is a captivating island in the Western Pacific. Lying roughly on the same latitude as the Philippines and Thailand, it is not easy to reach, unless you have something to do with the American military base there. Civilians would have to make a rather long and complicated flight, usually through Taiwan, to reach the island, but for many fishing enthusiasts the journey is worth it. This U.S. territory can boast stunning landscapes and diverse marine life, as well as crystal clear water with unparalleled visibility. The island's tropical climate ensures excellent fishing conditions year-round, with the dry season, from January to June, particularly favorable for deep-sea fishing. The taifun season, by contrast, should be avoided. Fishing in Guam is regulated by the Guam Department of Agriculture’s Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources (DAWR), which ensures sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of marine resources. Interestingly, Guam does not require a fishing license for recreational fishing, making it accessible for tourists and locals alike. However, anglers are encouraged to follow local guidelines to help preserve Guam’s rich aquatic ecosystems. There are minimum size restrictions for many fish species, and fishing is restricted in some areas including Guam National Wildlife Refuge. Fishing has always been an inalienable part of life for the local population, and today, if you want to experience fishing in Guam, there are many fishing charters, who are ready to take you out to discover fishing in this tropical marvel. Book your fishing adventure on our online marketplace for fishing trips today.

Guam offers a wide range of fishing types, each providing unique and rewarding experiences. The deep seas off the coast, particularly around the Agaña Marina and Agat Marina, are prime destinations for big game fishing in the Pacific Ocean, attracting anglers from around the world. The rocky shores, coral reefs, and lagoons provide excellent opportunities for productive inshore and nearshore fishing. Inland, freshwater fishing in Guam’s reservoirs and lakes is a significant aspect of the island’s fishing landscape, with areas such as Masso Reservoir and Fena Lake offering excellent fishing for those who are looking for an alternative to fishing in the ocean.

Guam’s waters are home to a diverse array of fish species, especially nearshore and on the reefs. Many fishing enthusiasts who visited the island, especially those who are into spearfishing, actually describe their experiences as confusing: they had to consult the fish guide to find out what species they were facing and if it was legal to shoot. Several varieties of parrotfish, surgeonfish, soldierfish, unicornfish, goatfish, emperors, wrasse and more are exciting both to behold and to catch. Throw in the better known snappers, groupers, and barracuda, as well as bluefin and giant trevally. The latter interestingly inhabits not only inshore waters, but also enters the island’s rivers, where you can also catch eels, catfish, and other freshwater species. Big game fish such as marlin, sailfish, and tuna visit the deep waters off Guam’s coast, as well as dorado (mahi-mahi), bonito, and wahoo. As usual with offshore fishing, something is always in season, but check the best times if you are after a particular species. For example, mahi-mahi fishing is best from January to April, while the peak season for marlin is from June to October.

The varied aquatic environments in Guam support a wide range of fishing techniques, each suited to different species and conditions. trolling is a widely used technique in the offshore waters, whereas spinning is popular for inshore and reef fishing, and bottom fishing effective for catching species like snapper and grouper around the reefs and rocky outcrops. Spearfishing is a traditional and popular technique in Guam, particularly around the coral reefs. And there is no reason why fly fishing enthusiasts can’t have a good catch on Guam.