Where to Find the Best Fishing Charters in Vanuatu

If you're dreaming of world-class fishing, Vanuatu should be at the top of your list. It's hard not to be smitten by these waters; the deep offshore drop-offs and thriving reefs are teeming with yellowfin tuna, mahimahi, wahoo and several species of trevally that'll give you the fight of your life.

Whether you're a seasoned angler hunting for that trophy catch or simply fancy a relaxing day on the water with dinner as your goal, there's a charter here that'll tick all your boxes.

In this guide, we'll share our favourite fishing charter operators across the islands, particularly those based in Port Vila on Efate and Espíritu Santo, both of which offer brilliant access to offshore and reef fishing that we can't get enough of.

Don't miss our comprehensive The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Vanuatu for seasonal insights, target species and what to expect once you're out there.

We've focused on independent charter operators below, though many resorts across Vanuatu offer their own fishing experiences if you're after something more convenient.

This article is based on real on-the-ground research, not on AI scraping old content from the internet. Learn how we use AI!

1.Pacific Reef Sport Fishing (Espiritu Santo)

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For anglers chasing serious offshore action around Vanuatu’s productive reefs and seamounts, Pacific Reef Sport Fishing focuses on high-quality trophy fishing with quick access to prime grounds.

Their serious trophy fishing charters target some of Vanuatu's most prized pelagic species, including dogtooth tuna and giant trevally.

Based on their specialised knowledge of local seamounts, coral bommies and reef ledges, the experienced crew can get you to productive fishing grounds within just 10 minutes of departure.

Choose between half-day four-hour charters or full-day eight-hour excursions, with departure times at 7 am or 1 pm for half-day trips. Both options accommodate up to four anglers and include all tackle, qualified skipper and deckhand, plus pickup and drop-off from your accommodation.

The focus here is on quality over quantity; landing big fish rather than high numbers. Multiple Fish Aggregating Devices located 5 nautical miles out provide excellent opportunities for yellowfin tuna, mahimahi, wahoo, jobfish and dinotrout, using techniques like top water fishing, jigging and trolling.

Location:

Surunda, east coast of Espiritu Santo. Accommodations transfers included.

Price Range:$$$$

2.Eretoka Fishing & Tour Adventure (Port Vila & Efate)

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Explore the pristine waters surrounding Eretoka Island (Hat or Artok Island) on this dedicated three-hour fishing adventure with Eretoka Fishing and Tour Adventure.

The "Eretoka Fishing Charter" offers two ways to fish the waters around Eretoka Island (also known as Hat Island) off the coast of Efate: a full-day "Modern Bluewater Fishing Tour" targeting yellowfin tuna, wahoo, skipjack and mahi-mahi (9 am to 3 pm, with snacks, cold water and lunch included), or a half-day "Traditional Handline Fishing Tour" fishing the reefs for snapper and reef fish in the local style (8 am to 12:30 pm, with snacks and cold water provided).

Both tours are run in small groups by experienced local guides, with transfers included from Port Vila, Mele Bay, Havannah or the west coast of Efate. It's roughly a 30-minute boat ride out to the fishing grounds, and life jackets, first aid and weather-aware planning are all taken care of.

Suitable for beginners and seasoned fishers alike, this is a community-based, environmentally responsible operation. Do note that, as per local customs, fish stay with the boat.

All in all, this is a fantastic fishing trip for those wanting no-frills fishing that focuses purely on the thrill of casting a line in near Eretoka Island.

Location:

Lelepa Landing, west coast of Efate. Meeting and pick-up locations arranged with the provider.

Price Range:$$

3.Tropical Island Tours (Port Vila & Efate)

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Pele Island Beach & Snorkelling Tour
Pele Island Beach & Snorkelling Tour
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Experience the ultimate big game fishing adventure with this unique overnight package centred around the pristine waters of Pele Island.

Unlike any other fishing operator in the region, this tour combines world-class angling with authentic island hospitality, featuring overnight accommodation at the charming Pele Island Beach Bungalow.

Your complete fishing package includes all necessary equipment, rods, reels and bait, though experienced anglers are welcome to bring their own gear. The adventure begins with a pre-fishing dinner, followed by a full day pursuing trophy fish in tropical paradise waters, and concludes with a beachside BBQ celebration of your catch.

What sets this experience apart is the operator's genuine local connections; his wife hails from Pele Island itself, providing exclusive access to the best fishing spots around the island's waters. This intimate knowledge ensures you'll discover hidden gems that other tours simply can't reach.

To discover more incredible angling experiences across the islands, explore The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Vanuatu.

Location:

Port Vila, Efate. Tours operate throughout Efate and surrounding islands, including Pele, Emau and Nguna islands. Accommodation transfers included.

Price Range:$$$

4. Bob's Game Fishing & Boating Charters (Espiritu Santo)

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Head out aboard the "Bobalong" with Bob's Game Fishing & Boating Charters for an unforgettable day exploring the inviting tropical waters surrounding Santo.

Whether you're casting lines for wahoo, mahimahi, yellowfin tuna, marlin or sailfish, or simply cruising around the offshore islands, this flexible charter service caters to your preferences.

Choose from fishing expeditions, scenic sightseeing tours, snorkelling adventures amongst untouched coral reefs, or combine activities for the ultimate day out. During your aquatic exploration, keep your eyes peeled for dugongs, sea turtles and spinner dolphins that frequent these waters.

With charter options ranging from 1 hr 30 min sunset cruises to full 8-hour adventures, all trips include fishing gear, refreshments and snacks. The boat comfortably accommodates up to four adults, making it perfect for intimate groups seeking personalised attention.

If you're seeking a flexible day on the water, whether fishing, sightseeing or snorkelling, this charter perfectly suits smaller groups wanting it all.

Location:

Barrier Beach, Luganville, Espiritu Santo. Signposted along the Santo East Coast Road.

Price Range:$$$$
Pele Island Beach & Snorkelling Tour

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5.Malog Bungalows (Malekula)

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Set within one of Vanuatu’s most untouched marine environments, this fishing experience combines rich biodiversity with authentic local guidance with Malog Bungalows for a truly memorable day on the water.

Run by Malog Bungalows, this two-hour "Traditional Fishing Tour" is one of the most hands-on cultural experiences in the Maskelyne Islands, guided by locals who know these waters like the back of their hand.

After a briefing on traditional fishing techniques, you head out by canoe, boat or on foot to the fishing site, where you'll climb mangroves, craft coconut bait and fish the reef using spears or a bow and arrow alongside local kids, just as it's been done here for generations.

Opt for the night session and the whole experience shifts: you walk the reef by torchlight at low tide, hunting reef fish and crabs in the dark. Morning sessions typically start at 8 am and night sessions around 7 pm, though tide conditions dictate the timing.

Whatever you catch, you cook it up fresh back at Malog Bungalows. Transfers from other accommodation around the Maskelyne Islands are available.

And for more about their bungalows, check out Where to Stay on Malekula: 20 Best Accommodations.

Location:

Peskarus, Maskelyne Island, Malekula.

Price Range:$

6. Top Gun Sport Fishing (Port Vila & Efate)

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For anglers seeking a fully equipped charter experience around Efate, this operator delivers flexible trips tailored to different skill levels and fishing styles.

Top Gun Sport Fishing offers premium fishing charters around Efate with options for four, six, eight or 10-hour adventures targeting pelagic species at various Fish Aggregating Devices.

Whether you're after the prized dogtooth tuna and giant trevally around the island's numerous reefs and underwater structures, or fancy deep dropping and jigging for the famous red ruby snapper, their experienced Maverick (hence the name!) caters to everyone from seasoned anglers to complete beginners.

All trips include transportation within Port Vila, complete fishing gear, tackle and bait, plus snorkelling equipment, ice, water and light meals. The fully licensed operation accommodates up to five passengers and offers customised trips, overnight adventures, and various fishing techniques, including live bait trolling, downrigger fishing, jigging and casting.

For more ways to experience world-class fishing across the islands, explore The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Vanuatu.

Location:

Erakor, Port Vila, Efate. Accommodation transfers are included.

Price Range:$$$$

7.Reel Cast Fishing Charters (Port Vila & Efate)

What Types of Fish Can You Fish for in Niue?
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Reel Cast Fishing Charters offers an authentic fishing adventure operated entirely by the local Lelepa Islanders, combining the thrill of deep-sea angling with genuine Ni-Vanuatu hospitality.

Whether you're targeting yellowfin tuna, marlin, dogtooth tuna or giant trevally on the open ocean, or seeking coral trout and bream around the vibrant reefs, this locally-owned operation ensures an unforgettable experience.

Both half-day (5 am to 10 am) and full-day (5 am to 3 pm) options include professional Shimano tackle, experienced skipper, all gear, bait, hotel transfers and snorkelling equipment. Full-day trips feature a hearty lunch and beverages, while half-day adventures include light refreshments.

What sets this charter apart is the aim to provide quality equipment, while still offering that true local experience you won't find with larger operators.

All in all, this charter brings together authentic island knowledge and serious offshore adventure, offering a truly local-led fishing experience around Lelepa.

Location:

Gideon's Landing, Havannah, northwest coast of Efate. Accommodation transfers are included in the tour.

Price Range:$$$

8.Naromin Tours and Fishing (Port Vila & Efate)

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For a relaxed, locally guided fishing experience in Vanuatu, enjoy traditional techniques and modern charters in the calm, sheltered waters around Lelepa Island.

Naromin Tours offers full-day and night fishing charters combined with cultural island experiences around Lelepa Island's flat-as-butter waters.

Operating from Gideon's Landing, this locally-run operation specialises in traditional and professional fishing adventures aboard their 6 m (20 ft) vessel, complete with 150 hp Mercury engine and full marine certifications.

You'll find yourself cruising through the calm waters surrounding the historical Lelepa and Hat (Artok, Eretoka) Islands. These sheltered spots are perfect for a relaxing fishing experience; the peaceful conditions make it easy to focus on reeling in a variety of fish species.

All packages include complimentary transfers from your accommodation and refreshments (lunch included on full-day charters). With half-day, full-day, night fishing and combination snorkelling options available, there's something for every angler and adventure seeker.

Beyond fishing, this operator also offers snorkelling, conservation-focused experiences, and local cultural tours, so be sure to check out the 25 Best Boat & Sailing Tours in Vanuatu.

Location:

Gideon's Landing, Havannah, northwest coast of Efate. Accommodation transfers are included in the tour.

Price Range:$$$
Blue Cave Tanna Tour

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9.Lelepa Fishing Charters (Port Vila & Efate)

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Full-Day (8-Hour) Santo Fishing Charter
Full-Day (8-Hour) Santo Fishing Charter
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Lelepa Island Fishing Charters offers an authentic fishing experience in the sheltered waters surrounding Efate.

Operating a seven-metre "Banana Boat," this 100% Ni-Vanuatu owned and operated charter is run by local Lelepa islanders who bring invaluable local knowledge to every trip. The tepid waters remain ideal year-round for targeting species like marlin, with both light game fishing and light reef fishing available to catch a huge variety of game and reef fish.

All tours include bus transfers, light refreshments, fishing gear, bait and an experienced skipper, while full-day excursions feature a beach barbecue lunch with juice and water.

Whether you're fishing solo or with mates, you'll benefit from expert advice and local insights that give you the best chance of success, all at a more reasonable cost than larger game boats.

In short, choose Lelepa Island Fishing Charters for a locally run fishing trip that keeps things simple yet highly rewarding around Lelepa Island.

Location:

Lelepa Landing, Havannah, west coast of Efate. Accommodation pick-ups can be arranged.

Price Range:$$

10.Island Fishing Santo (Espiritu Santo)

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Island Fishing Santo offers an authentic, locally-owned fishing experience on the turquoise and deep blue waters surrounding Vanuatu's largest island.

This professional operation specialises in trolling, jigging and topwater fishing, targeting prized species including marlin, wahoo, mahimahi, yellowfin tuna, dogtooth tuna and giant trevally.

Choose from flexible packages ranging from two-hour combination trips with snorkelling and dugong spotting to full eight-hour adventures with lunch included. All excursions include full boat hire, professional-grade fishing gear and transfers, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Location:

Luganville, Santo. Meeting location is determined with the provider.

Price Range:$$$$

More About Fishing Charters in Vanuatu

That's it for our guide to fishing charters in Vanuatu; for more information about fishing and water activities, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there's anything we've missed, you're likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Vanuatu.