From a Giant Snakehead in the country’s second largest lake to Sultan Fish in a botanical gardens near Kuala Lumpur here’s where you should go if you want to catch fish
1. Kuala Rompin, Pahang
There’s no two ways about it – Kuala Rompin is the Sailfish capital of Asia. The seas off this coastal town in Pahang are home to a huge concentration of Indo-pacific Sailfish – one of the largest in the world – and sport fishers from all over the world travel to Rompin for this. Plan your trip between March and November, hire a private charter for a day or a week and take to the beautifully calm waters for your fill of Sailfish. You’ll also find giant trevally, queenfish and marlin in Kuala Rompin’s waters.
2. Yellow Water Dam (Empangan Air Kuning), Selangor
Located in Shah Alam’s botanical gardens, Yellow Water Dam is a great option if you don’t want to travel too far out of the city – and if you’re travelling with non-anglers. Taman Botani Negara Shah Alam boasts an animal park, beautifully manicured gardens, nature walks and boats and bikes for hire around the dam. As for the fishing – you’ll find Red-bellied Pacu, Sultan Fish, Rohu and Tilapia in these waters. Just be warned that the park only allows one rod per person.
3. Fish Valley Fishing Resort, Semenyih
Fish Valley has two major claims to fame – the first is its well-stocked natural ponds, bustling with Pacu, Sultan Fish, Mekong Catfish, Tongsan, Grass Carp and more. The second is its very popular Chinese restaurant, where you can present your fishing spoils at the end of the day for cooking (the assam style fish is very popular). And even if you’re a non-fisher, or haven’t had any success at the pond, you’re still welcome at the restaurant. Fish Valley is a popular daytrip spot, with picnicking families around the pond, ATVs available for hire, and a fruit orchard to explore.
4. Royal Belum State Park, Perak
Royal Belum State Park encompasses some of the oldest rainforest in the world, and is home to Lake Temenggor, the second largest lake in Malaysia. This freshwater lake boasts Jungle Perch, Mahseer and, most famously, Giant Snakehead, the star attraction of the lake. Anglers from all over the region head to Lake Temenggor for the opportunity to catch a Giant Snakehead – for the best chances, book yourself on a multi-day fishing safari where local experts will show you the best spots in the lake.
5. Pulau Jarak, Perak
Pulau Jarak itself is a heavily forested island with a rocky shoreline – not exactly inviting. But experienced anglers love the waters around the island for excellent saltwater fishing, including jigging and popping for Trevally. The key word is experienced: this is a fishing spot only for those with knowhow and endurance. Head out in a boat for the day to try your luck on Giant Trevally, Bigeye Trevally, Golden Snapper, Cobia and more.
