If you’re stumped on how to celebrate Father’s Day this year, take that ‘Best Dad In The World’ coffee mug off your shopping cart and book a fishing trip instead. From deep sea excursions to catch-and-release fishing resorts, spending the day with a hook and line reeling in the catch of the day is a great way to put a smile on your dad’s face.
Luckily, there are a few spots in Malaysia where you can book a fishing trip. And if you simply must, go on and add that coffee mug to dad’s gifts too. After all, it’s the simple pleasures in life that make him oh-so happy.
1. Hulu Langat Fishing Resort, Selangor
Take a 45-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur to Hulu Langat Fishing Resort, a catch-and-release private fishing pond. Book a couple of nights’ stay at the resort’s on-site abode, which is ideal for young families. Residents of the VIP Platform Pond room will be able to fish from their own private platform.
Guides are available to assist you with preparing baits and casting your line, making it a great spot for beginners. Fishing equipment is available for rent as well. Expect to reel in species like the Siamese Carp, Mekong Catfish, Amazonian Catfish, and more before releasing them back into the pond.
Address: Jalan Sentosa 11/A, Taman Desa Sentosa, 43100 Hulu Langat, Selangor
Contact: +60 14 637 3979
2. Rockbund Fishing Chalet, Pangkor, Perak
Set on Marina Island, just off Pangkor, Rockbund is a lovely island fishing getaway for those who want to enjoy both fishing and island living. What better way to spend the day with dad than to spend a few days on the island fishing over the crystal clear waters?
Equipped with sports fishing facilities and private fishing decks over the sea attached to each chalet, Rockbund promises a relaxing time and a thrilling experience. Fish in the open sea, by the mangrove, or at the property’s fishing pond for a guaranteed catch.
Address: Marina Island, KM1, Jalan Utama Marina Island, 32200 Lumut, Perak
Contact: +60 16 558 0388
3. Ajlaa Village Resort, Hulu Langat, Selangor
Only a short drive from the bustle of the city is the peaceful and serene Ajlaa Village Resort. Situated near Mount Nuang, the resort is a tranquil little getaway to relax, unwind, and celebrate dad.
An array of leisurely and nature-related activities are available here, including river walks, hikes to the waterfalls, exploring the fruit orchard, swimming at the resort pool, barbecuing, and fishing. There are over 17 varieties of freshwater fish on the property.
Address: KM22 Sungai Lepoh Kampung Kuala, 43100 Hulu Langat, Selangor
Contact: +60 19 498 2395
4. Bubu Resort, Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu
If you’re looking for a proper trip away with the family, Bubu Resort on Perhentian Island is the perfect island paradise. Its 36 guest rooms provide all the comforts you can hope for in a home away from home while also creating curated experiences for fishing enthusiasts.
Head outside the marine park conservation area with a fishing guide who will attend to you throughout your time at sea so you don’t miss a catch. Call the resort beforehand to learn more about fishing charters and tours.
Address: Long Beach, Perhentian Island Kecil, 22300, Terengganu
Contact: +60 16 260 3541
5. Gaya Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Set in East Malaysia, Gaya Island Resort is an eco-luxury hotel hidden away amidst protected mangroves and coral reefs. Stationed on Malohom Bay, home to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the resort is surrounded by the beautiful natural landscape of Borneo’s coastal beaches. Committing to ecologically sustainable practices, the resort’s fishing excursions are guided.
Beginners and seasoned anglers are encouraged to enjoy leisure fishing with an expert guide on a charter boat as you attempt to bait amberjacks, ruby, kerisi Bali, and black grouper species. Standard fishing equipment, bait, and refreshments are provided on the three-hour excursion. Advanced booking is required.
Address: Malohom Bay, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Marine Park, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Contact: +60 18 939 1100
6. Kenyir Eco Resort, Kuala Berang, Terengganu
Kenyir Lake, the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, spans 260,000 hectares and is a favourite amongst anglers nationwide. Surrounded by exotic species of plants and wildlife, it is the perfect retreat for fishing.
The lake is known for its hundreds of species of freshwater fish, which provides ample opportunity for a catch. The Kenyir Eco Resort is a floating resort set over the lake, ideal for a weekend of fishing on the lake.
Address: Jalan Pengkalan Utama, tasik kenyir, 21700 Kuala Berang, Terengganu
Contact: +60 19 280 4877
7. Soon Coastal Fishing, Batu Ferringhi, Penang
If a six-hour deep sea fishing excursion ending with a meal on your plate sounds like the perfect ‘Dad & Me’ date to you, Soon Coastal Fishing, formerly known as Samy Fishing & BBQ, in Penang has exactly what you’re looking for. Located in Batu Ferringhi on Penang Island, the session includes basic fishing equipment and a chance to catch both small and large fish varieties on the island.
Though a catch isn’t promised, a successful catch is yours as your guide cleans and prepares the fish before sending it to Golden River Restaurant, where your day’s catch will be cooked and served for dinner. Find out more here.
Address: Batu Ferringhi, Malaysia
Contact: +60 12 489 9995
8. Sport Fishing Asia, Kuala Rompin, Pahang
Alright, this is the big boy of sport fishing and certainly a trip for those serious about their catch. Hailed as one of the best fishing spots in the country, people come from all over the world to try to hook the famous sailfish of Kuala Rompin. Led by fisherman and expert angler, Juan Wei, you’ll get a taste of deep-sea fishing as well as the struggle and thrills that come with it.
Guided tours for both sailfish sport fishing and fly fishing are available in a sport-fisher boat, a catamaran, and a luxury sport-fisher yacht. To find out more, contact Juan Wei via TripAdvisor.
Address: Jalan Leban Chondong, Kampung Sungai Putri, 26800 Kuala Rompin, Pahang
Contact: +60 13 635 6679
