Fiji Fishing Seasons
Fiji is an angler’s dream. There’s never really a bad time to fish in Fiji, with the exception of targeting very specific species of big game fish. The temperatures, currents, migration and mating seasonal patterns all determine “peak” seasons for certain game fish in Fiji’s waters, such as blue marlin, black marlin, yellowfin tuna and sailfish. Otherwise, any time of the year is a great time to fish in Fiji if you’re looking for a relaxing reef fishing trip or don’t have your heart set on one particular fish. If you have a fish in mind, take a look at the Fiji fishing seasons listed below and find out when is the best time of year for fishing in Fiji.
While you’re here, don’t miss How to Choose the Best Fishing Tour for You. Plus, be sure to bookmark The Complete Guide to Fishing in Fiji for even more tips.
5 Tips for Fishing in Fiji
- The best locations for big game fishing are in southern Viti Levu, Kadavu, northern Taveuni and the southern Mamanuca Islands.
- Know which fish are catch-and-release to avoid disappointment! Most bill species of fish must be released, as well as several other fish types which have size restrictions. Refer to the fish size guide here.
- Get ready to learn different fishing techniques. Angling in the deep waters will require you to do a range of techniques from downrigging and bait-and-switch.
- Note that fishing in protected marine reserves is illegal and fishing in reefs just outside of villages is against local customs without asking for permission first.
- Going with a fishing charter is the best way to fish if you don’t already know the fishing rules and regulations in Fiji. Check out our 10 Best Fishing Tours in Fiji.
© Clayton Maxwell on FlickrSeasons in Fiji
First thing’s first, it’s important to note that Fiji’s warm temperatures and tropical waters make it an ideal location for fishing all year round.
There are only really two distinct seasons in Fiji in terms of climate, the dry season and the wet season.
The dry season is typically between June and September, otherwise known as Fiji’s “winter”. With the outside temperatures being around 21-27°C / 69-80°F and the water temperatures being around 26-27°C / 78-80°F.
The wet season is typically between November and May, otherwise known as Fiji’s “summer”, where temperatures are higher, but that comes with high humidity and rainfall. It’s also the cyclone season during this time where high winds are more frequent.
In either season, the weather is often pleasant enough to be out on the water. However, expect fewer fishing days in the summer when you’re more likely to experience high winds. If you are wanting to experience reef fishing, or are not targeting a particular game fish, then Fiji’s winter season would be the best time to come and cast a line. If you are targeting your dream trophy fish then take a look at the peak seasons listed below.
For more information on the weather and climate in Fiji, check out our Weather Category with month-by-month information.
© FijiPocketGuide.comFiji Game Fishing Seasons
While most game fish can be caught all year round in Fiji, there are some peak seasons for specific game fish where a catch is all the more likely. For example, the peak seasons in the waters of the Mamanucas are:
- Blue Marlin: November to January
- Black Marlin: November and December
- Sailfish: June to September
- Yellowfin Tuna: November to March
- Dogtooth Tuna: October to March
- Skipjack: January to February and August to October
- Mahimahi: October to January
- Spanish Mackerel: October to December
- Wahoo: June to September
- Giant Trevally: June to September.
Find out more about the different game fish you can catch with our guide to What Types of Fish Can You Fish For in Fiji.
© Manoel Lemos on FlickrThe Best Game Fish to Catch Year-Round in Fiji
Some fish are more prolific in Fiji’s waters than others, with the likelihood of your catch not determined too much by the season. While some fish have a peak season, as shown above, some fish don’t really have a low season, making them a good fish to target year-round.
Here are the best game fish to catch in Fiji all year round.
- Skipjack
- Spanish Mackerel
- Giant Trevally
- Wahoo
- Mahimahi.
More About the Best Time of Year for Fishing in Fiji
