For big game fishing enthusiasts, there’s nothing like casting a line in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. That kind of experience is exactly what you’ll get when you spend a day off the coast of Guam fishing for Marlin, Tuna, and other prizes. This U.S. territory in the Western Pacific is surrounded by the most dramatic topography in the world, featuring the highest underwater mountain as well as the infamous Mariana Trench. Add to that impeccably clear waters, sandy beaches, and world class deep sea fishing just minutes outside of the harbor—and you’ve got yourself one memorable vacation.

Known For

The stellar sport fishing Guam is known for has everything to do with geography. This 30-mile long island formed millions of years ago when two volcanoes sank into the ocean, leaving only their twin peaks above sea level. These peaks are surrounded by a coral table reef, but it doesn’t take long to reach intensely deep waters beyond that. This allows big game fish such as Marlin, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin and Skipjack Tuna to swim as close as ¼ of a mile from the shoreline. The big game fish in these waters are relatively small compared to those in other parts of the world, but a high catch rate makes up for it.

You can count on excellent big game fishing opportunities almost all year in Guam. Mahi Mahi and Wahoo provide most of the action from fall through early spring. In summer, it’s all about Blue Marlin and Yellowfin Tuna, who reach their peak in late July and August. Meanwhile, Skipjack Tuna, Barracuda, and other species keep anglers busy year-round. Depending on the weather, you might hook into these bad boys just off the coast or up to 50 miles out. Most big game fishing takes place north of Orote Point on the west side of the island. Guam fishing charters will often take you to hot spots such as the Galvez Banks or a series of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs).

A day on these waters is about more than epic deep sea battles. The nearshore reefs are teeming with various Snapper, Grouper, Jacks, Parrotfish, Rainbow Runner, and other stunning specimens. Snorkeling among these colorful fish is a popular tourist attraction, as is spearfishing—a time-honored Chamorro tradition which has maintained its popularity in Guam to this day. 

Need to Know

Regulations

Recreational anglers do not need a fishing license in Guam. Most fish are legal to harvest year-round, but be aware of size and bag limits.

Techniques

Blue Marlin in these waters only average 100-200 lbs, which makes for some great light tackle action. Other Guam fishing techniques include jigging, popping, trolling, bottom fishing, and deep dropping. For your safety, spearfishing is only recommended for targeting small species in shallow water close to shore.

Budget

You’ll find many Guam fishing charters on the west side of the island, mainly located at the Agaña Marina in the capital city Agaña and at the Agat Marina, about 20 minutes south.

Half day trips (4 hours) cost $350-$500, while ¾ day trips (6 hours) can range from $450-$650. You can expect to pay between $550-$850 for a full day trip (8-10 hours). Some charter operators offer discounted trips for about $130 per person.

Getting Around

Located over 1,600 miles from Japan and almost 4,000 miles from Hawaii, there’s no faster way to access Guam than by air. Flights to Guam A.B. Won Pat Airport are offered by Japan Airlines, ANA (All Nippon Airways), and Korean Air.

Once you get to the island, you can make good use of the local taxi service or buses run by the Guam Mass Transit Authority. Bus lines connect many towns across the island and run every 30 minutes or so. You can find taxis outside of most hotels and shopping centers.

One of the best times to travel to Guam is between December and March, during the dry season. On the other hand, summer is the time to go if you’re purely interested in landing Marlin or Tuna, but be wary of the typhoon season from July through November. If you’re heading to Guam to enjoy some casual game fishing, there’s almost never a bad time to cast your line around here!