If you’re searching for a premier destination for a fishing vacation, look no further than Dubai.
It’s home to over 300 species of fish, and while the official fishing season in Dubai runs from October to late May, there are times between November and February that are known as the most favorable.
What Kind of Fish You Can Catch and When?
Grouper
This fish comes in several types and sizes, and in Dubai you’ll find:
Arabian Grouper – Also known as the greasy grouper, they inhabit deep coastal reefs, and range in length from 30 cm to 100 cm. They are solitary creatures who have a body and head that is a light greenish-gray with brown spots. Their active season is January through April, with a mixed season in both May and December.
Orange-spotted Grouper – This popular fish has a body that’s tan on top and whitish underneath, and reddish-brown spots for which it is named. They can be found swimming alone or in small groups, and they feed on crabs, fish, and shrimp. Their active fishing season is January through April, with a mixed season in May and December, and a medium-active season in October and November.
Yellowfin Tuna
Found in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world, the yellowfin tuna is one of the biggest tuna species as it can weigh over 180 kg. You can identify this fish by the metallic dark blue color on its back and upper side, a yellow or silver color underneath, and bright yellow fins and finlets. They typically swim in mixed schools of skipjack and other tunas, and their diet consists of crustaceans and cephalopods. You can fish for them anytime May through September.
Barracuda
Barracudas are interesting creatures with their snake-like appearance and fang-shaped teeth. They are brown or bluish gray on their upper side with a white underside, and are generally found in nearshore coral reefs, sea grasses, and mangroves, though they can also make their home in the open ocean where they mainly live at or near the surface. It’s said that they are attracted to reflective, metallic objects that bear a resemblance to the silver fish that is a large part of their diet. Their active season is January through March, and September through December, while a mixed season takes place April through August.
Is a Fishing License Required?
Yes. A fishing license is mandatory for all recreational fishing activities in Dubai, even catch and release. Tourists are able to obtain a short-term license through a tour operator or a major hotel.
When you’re ready to head out on the water, please contact us to book a luxurious fishing boat. The experienced captain will make sure you have a morning to remember.