Squid Fishing in Ha Long Bay: A Magical Nighttime Adventure

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned worldwide for its breathtaking landscape of thousands of limestone karsts rising majestically from emerald waters. While daytime offers opportunities to explore mysterious caves, kayak between islands, or simply bask in the magnificent scenery, the bay transforms into something entirely different after sunset. As darkness falls, Ha Long Bay takes on a tranquil, mystical beauty—and this is precisely when one of the most unique experiences becomes available: nighttime squid fishing.

To better understand squid fishing in Ha Long Bay, follow the following article from Joytime

The Enchanting Experience of Nighttime Squid Fishing in Ha Long Bay

Squid fishing in Ha Long Bay combines the serene beauty of the bay at night with the excitement of a traditional fishing activity. As you venture out on a boat under the starlit sky, you'll experience a side of Ha Long Bay that day-trippers miss entirely. The gentle lapping of waves against the boat, the silhouettes of limestone karsts against the night sky, and the anticipation of catching your own dinner create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Squid fishing in Ha Long Bay offers a unique, hands-on activity - Photo Source: Facebook Câu Mực Hạ long

Unlike many tourist activities that merely showcase local culture, squid fishing allows you to actively participate in a time-honored tradition practiced by local fishermen for generations. This hands-on experience gives visitors insight into the fishing techniques that have sustained local communities for centuries while providing an entertaining evening activity.

The Best Season for Squid Fishing in Ha Long Bay

To maximize your chances of a successful squid fishing expedition in Ha Long Bay, timing is crucial. According to local fishermen and travel experts, the prime squid fishing season extends from late autumn to early spring, approximately from September to February. During this period, squids reproduce in greater numbers, significantly increasing your chances of a good catch.

The prime time for squid fishing is from September to February, with the peak season being October and November when squids are abundant and larger - Photo Source: Câu Mực Hạ long

The peak season occurs between October and November when squids are both abundant and larger. Some sources suggest a broader timeframe, from August to January or even April to the following January, indicating the overall richness of squid populations in Ha Long Bay throughout much of the year. However, for the best chance of catching large and numerous squids, the September to February window remains the preferred option.

Seasonal Guide to Squid Fishing in Ha Long Bay

The Ideal Time for Nighttime Squid Fishing in Ha Long Bay

Most sources agree that the optimal time to begin squid fishing is after 8:00 PM, with the activity typically lasting until approximately 10:00 or 11:00 PM. Some cruises suggest a slightly earlier start time, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This timeframe aligns with squids' nocturnal feeding habits and is part of the standard schedule for overnight cruise tours.

Ideal conditions for squid fishing include fishing between 8 PM to 11 PM, on moonless nights with clear weather and calm seas - Photo Source: Fanpage Câu Mực Hạ long

The most important weather consideration is calm seas—avoiding days with rough seas or storms is essential for both safety and fishing success. Furthermore, during squid fishing season, especially from December to February, nighttime temperatures in Ha Long Bay can be quite cold, so tourists should prepare warm clothing.

Optimal Conditions for Squid Fishing

The Best Ha Long Bay Squid Fishing Tours

Nighttime squid fishing is typically integrated into the itineraries of overnight cruise tours in Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay. Most cruise ships, from mid-range to luxury, provide fishing rods and necessary equipment for guests. Day cruises generally do not include this activity.

Many overnight cruises in Ha Long Bay offer squid fishing, with highly rated options - Photo Source: Facebook Câu Mực Hạ long

Several cruise options are highly rated for their squid fishing experiences:

• Bhaya Classic Cruise: Offers 2 and 3-day tour packages with professional guidance and excellent lighting systems to attract squid.

• Paradise Elegance Cruise: A luxury cruise ship that takes guests to less crowded areas to increase chances of catching squid during 2-night tours.

• Indochine Cruise Lan Ha: Provides a more traditional experience with guidance from staff experienced in fishing techniques from local fishing families.

• Dragon Legend Cruise: Takes guests to the quiet Bai Tu Long Bay, often combining squid fishing with cooking demonstrations.

• Peony Cruises: Highly rated (9.7/10), exploring Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, Tra Bau area, and Trung Trang cave, from $148.

• Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise: Rated 9.7/10, touring Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright caves, from $145.

• Capella Cruise: Rated 9.8/10, exploring Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright caves, Beach Cove area, from $195.

• Ambassador Signature Cruise: Rated 9.8/10, visiting Lan Ha Bay, Viet Hai village, Dark and Bright caves, from $170.

• Orchid Classic Cruise: Rated 9.6/10, exploring Dark and Bright caves, Lan Ha Bay, Trung Trang cave, from $165.

• Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan: Rated 9.7/10, touring Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright caves, from $180.

Other options include La Casta Cruise, Stellar Cruise, Athena Cruise, Calypso Cruise, Rosy Cruise, Nostalgia Cruise, Venus Cruise, Sena Cruise, Dragon Pearl Junks, Renea Cruise, Prince Cruise, Amanda Cruise, Swan Cruise, Legend Halong Private Charter, and L'Amour Junk Private Charter.

When selecting a cruise tour, travelers should carefully check the itinerary to ensure squid fishing is included. While most overnight cruises offer this activity, it's always best to confirm before booking.

You may need: Equipment and Techniques for Squid Fishing

Most cruise ships provide guests with fishing rods and nets specifically designed for squid fishing.

Essential Equipment:

• Fishing Rod: Typically 2 to 3 meters long. Some sources suggest that squid fishing rods are generally longer and lighter than those used for fishing.

• Fishing Line: Approximately 20 to 30 meters long.

• Artificial Bait: Usually shaped like shrimp or fish, made of rubber, and attached directly to the hook. Darker colored artificial bait is often preferred for night fishing. High-quality artificial bait from Japan, such as Squid Jig or Yo Zuri, with an additional phosphorescent layer to attract squid, is widely recommended. Some cruise ships may provide artificial bait, or guests can bring their own.

• Flashlight: White light flashlights are commonly used to shine into the water, attracting squid. Some boats are equipped with underwater lighting systems.

• Net: Used to scoop up the squid when caught.

• Basket or Bucket: For holding caught squid.

Some sources also mention the use of "racquets" (nets) with attached fishing line and large bait, which doesn't require real bait.

Squid fishing requires simple equipment such as fishing rods, artificial bait, and nets - Photo Source: Facebook Câu Mực Hạ long

Squid Fishing Techniques:

The technique for squid fishing in Ha Long Bay is relatively simple and suitable for beginners.

1. Dropping the Bait: Slowly lower the fishing line into the water. Avoid dropping it too quickly.

2. Observing: Slowly pull the fishing line back toward the boat and pay attention.

3. Recognizing When a Squid Takes the Bait: When a squid eats the artificial bait, you'll feel the fishing rod become heavier or notice movement on the water's surface.

4. Pulling in the Squid: Quickly but gently pull up the fishing line. Avoid pulling too hard, which might cause the squid to slip away.

5. Patience: Squid fishing requires patience. If there is no activity after about 5-7 minutes, try lifting the fishing line, checking the bait, and dropping it back in.

6. Seeking Help from Experienced Individuals: If you're a beginner, don't hesitate to ask for help from boat staff or local fishermen. They can share effective tips and techniques.

7. Moving the Bait: Some techniques suggest keeping the bait moving gently in the water to attract squid.

8. Choosing a Position: Choose areas with calm water, with light shining down, and an appropriate depth (usually 4 to 12 meters, ideally around 7 meters). Areas near coral reefs and with abundant seaweed are also places where squid tend to congregate.

Tips for a Successful Squid Fishing Experience

To make the most of your squid fishing adventure in Ha Long Bay, consider these helpful tips:

1. Dress appropriately: Wear warm clothing, especially during the winter months (December to February). The temperature on the water can be significantly cooler than on land, particularly at night.

2. Be patient: Squid fishing isn't always instantly rewarding. Sometimes you might need to wait several minutes before getting a bite.

3. Listen to your guide: The crew members on cruise ships have extensive experience with squid fishing in these waters. Their advice on technique, timing, and location can significantly improve your chances of success.

4. Bring a camera with night mode: The experience of squid fishing under the stars is highly photogenic, but regular cameras might struggle in low-light conditions.

5. Try different depths: If you're not having luck at one depth, try adjusting your line to fish at various levels in the water.

6. Book your cruise during peak season: To maximize your chances of a successful catch, plan your Ha Long Bay visit during the October-November peak season.

7. Check weather forecasts: Squid fishing activities may be canceled or postponed during adverse weather conditions. Having flexible travel plans can help accommodate any changes.

8. Choose a less crowded area: Some cruises take guests to quieter parts of the bay where squid fishing can be more productive.

Beyond Squid Fishing: Complementary Nighttime Activities

While squid fishing is a highlight of overnight cruises in Ha Long Bay, it's often paired with other evening activities that enhance the overall experience:

• Stargazing: The minimal light pollution in parts of Ha Long Bay makes it an excellent location for observing the night sky. Many cruises offer stargazing opportunities from the deck.

• Evening kayaking: Some cruises offer guided evening kayaking in Ha Long, allowing you to experience the bay's tranquility from water level while enjoying the spectacular night views.

In addition to squid fishing, cruises offer activities like stargazing, evening kayaking, and traditional music performances to enhance the experience - Photo Source: Facebook Câu Mực Hạ long

• Traditional music performances: Local musicians sometimes perform Vietnamese folk music on overnight cruises, providing cultural entertainment before or after squid fishing.

• Cooking demonstrations: Some cruises take it further with a full cooking class in Ha Long Bay. Here, guests have the chance to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes, often featuring freshly caught squid, creating an engaging and authentic cultural experience.

• Sunset viewing: Before the squid fishing begins, many cruises position themselves for optimal sunset viewing positions, offering spectacular photography opportunities.

• Scuba diving: For adventurous travelers who plan ahead, some cruises offer scuba diving in Ha Long Bay during the day, turning the evening’s cultural and leisure activities into a perfect way to unwind after an exciting underwater exploration.

These complementary activities create a well-rounded evening experience that showcases different aspects of Ha Long Bay's natural beauty and local culture.

Planning Your Squid Fishing Experience

To ensure you don't miss out on this unique activity, here are some planning considerations:

1. Book an overnight cruise: Squid fishing is almost exclusively offered on overnight cruises, not day trips.

2. Confirm the activity is included: While checking cruise itineraries, specifically look for squid fishing in the evening program.

3. Consider the length of stay: Two-night cruises often provide more opportunities for activities like squid fishing and typically visit less crowded areas of the bay.

4. Pack appropriately: Remember warm clothing for evening activities, especially during winter months.

5. Check seasonal timing: For the best experience, plan your visit during the peak squid season (September to February, especially October and November).

6. Be flexible: Weather conditions might affect the scheduling of outdoor activities like squid fishing.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Night in Ha Long Bay

Squid fishing in Ha Long Bay offers more than just the chance to catch your dinner—it provides a window into local traditions, a unique way to experience the bay's nighttime beauty, and an activity that brings people together through shared excitement and accomplishment.

Beyond the activity itself, squid fishing creates lasting memories of Ha Long Bay that go beyond the typical tourist photos. It's the feeling of anticipation as you wait for a catch, the laughter shared with fellow travelers as someone pulls in a squid, and the satisfaction of enjoying a meal you helped procure.

When planning your visit to Vietnam, consider adding this unique nighttime adventure to your itinerary. The combination of traditional fishing techniques, breathtaking scenery, and the potential culinary reward makes squid fishing in Ha Long Bay an experience that epitomizes the magic of travel—stepping outside your comfort zone, engaging with local traditions, and creating stories you'll share for years to come.

With a well-planned itinerary, budget-friendly options, and an open mind to meeting new people, your solo journey will be both fulfilling and exciting. Let Joytime be your trusted companion, providing essential travel gear to ensure comfort, safety, and convenience throughout your trip. An incredible solo adventure awaits—pack your bags and explore Hanoi with confidence!