GT fishing in the Maldives
Cast for giant trevally on the reef edges and channels of Vaavu Atoll, with local guides and a maximum of 4 guests on board.
Why GT fishing in Vaavu Atoll
Vaavu Atoll is an excellent destination for GT fishing. Its deep channels, healthy reefs and strong currents give giant trevally perfect hunting grounds, and the strikes are powerful. It’s also a quieter place to fish than the busier atolls.
How we cast for GT
We cast near the reefs and follow the current, which is the best way to fish for GTs here. You need to pull a GT away from the rocks, so we use very stiff, powerful rods that can cast up to 150g.
GT fishing gear
We use Shimano or Daiwa reels with PE6 or PE8 braid, plus the latest lures and accessories from brands like Fiiish, Molix and Rapala. You can rent rods and lures for US$50 a day, with no surcharge for lost lures.
Your guides
Arsah has 30+ years of fishing in the atoll and is a master of casting and spinning. Mowgli is the captain, and our boat, Vaavu Fighter, is 7 metres long with a new Suzuki 200hp outboard. They speak good English, are very easy going, and can take pictures or video of your GT if you’d like them to.
GT sizes in Vaavu
GTs here usually run from 10 to 20kg, which is why the heavy rods and PE6 or PE8 braid matter.
Best months for GT fishing
The best GT months in the Maldives are May to October, especially June to September. Vaavu is full of GTs all year, so you can fish them whenever you visit.
A first GT trip: around 60 GTs in 5 days
A 12-year-old came to Vaavu with his father for his very first GT trip. Some anglers wait years for their first GT. He went with a different plan. In 5 days they caught around 60 GTs, 4 tuna, and many groupers and red snappers.
Who caught more, father or son? Our guides are far too respectful to say. We can’t promise those numbers on every trip, but that’s one very good story to take back to school.
GT fishing trips: prices per boat
Half day, US$350
8am to 1pm
One day, US$700
7am to 5pm, with a light lunch stop
6 days, US$3,000
7am to 1pm
