Vung Tau, the bustling coastal city of Southern Vietnam, has long been famous for its long stretches of golden sand, cool blue sea, and fresh seafood. But Vung Tau is more than just that. If you are already familiar with swimming, mountain climbing, and enjoying seafood during the day, try exploring Vung Tau at night, especially experiencing night squid fishing at sea. This is not only a simple entertainment activity but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the life of local fishermen, enjoy the magical beauty of the night sea, and savor your labor’s fruits right on the sea.
Vung Tau Night Squid Fishing: Journey to Discover the Mysterious Ocean
Different from the bustling and noisy daytime, Vung Tau sea at night puts on a new coat, quiet and mysterious. It is in that quiet space that night squid fishing becomes extremely attractive and interesting. This is a unique experience that you cannot miss when coming to this beautiful coastal city.
Why is night squid fishing so attractive?
Night squid fishing is not simply a seafood catching activity, but also a journey to discover new and exciting things:
- Discover the beauty of the night sea: When night falls, the sea becomes vast and more magical than ever. Sitting on a boat bobbing in the night sea, you will admire the sparkling starry sky, feel the tranquility of the ocean, and listen to the whispering waves. The shimmering lights from other squid fishing boats create a shimmering, magical scene, completely different from Vung Tau during the day.
- Experience fishermen’s life: Joining a night squid fishing tour is a great opportunity for you to better understand the life of Vung Tau fishermen. You will witness firsthand how they prepare boats, cast lines, and patiently wait for fresh squid. Stories about the sea and fishing experiences shared by seasoned fishermen will surely be unforgettable memories.
- Challenge patience and skill: Squid fishing requires patience, skill, and a bit of luck. The feeling of suspense when waiting for squid to bite, the excitement of personally pulling up fresh squid, jumping and wriggling on the boat will surely make you feel extremely excited and satisfied.
- Enjoy fresh seafood: What could be better than enjoying fresh squid dishes that you have caught yourself right on the sea? Squid that is freshly caught, grilled over charcoal or processed into simple dishes such as steamed, stir-fried, or boiled, all have a special sweet and fresh taste that no restaurant can match.
Ideal time to experience Vung Tau night squid fishing
The squid fishing season in Vung Tau usually starts from April to September of the lunar calendar every year. This is when the sea is calm, squid move a lot and are easier to catch. In particular, moonless or dim moon nights are the best times to catch squid, because squid tend to seek out places with weak light.
However, you also need to monitor the weather before deciding to go night squid fishing. Avoid going on rainy or stormy days or when the sea is rough to ensure safety and have a complete experience.
Prepare for your night squid fishing trip
To have a smooth and memorable Vung Tau night squid fishing trip, you need to prepare some necessary items as follows:
- Clothing: You should choose comfortable, cool, and easy-to-move clothing. Bring a thin jacket or warm jacket because the temperature at sea at night can be quite cold.
- Sunscreen and hat: Even when going night squid fishing, you should still bring sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin from the sun’s rays (if going on an afternoon tour).
- Motion sickness medicine: If you are prone to motion sickness, take motion sickness medicine about 30 minutes before boarding the boat to avoid discomfort throughout the journey.
- Snacks and drinks: You can bring some snacks and drinks to replenish energy during squid fishing. However, most night squid fishing tours include dinner or snacks on the boat.
- Camera or phone: Don’t forget to bring a camera or phone to capture memorable moments during your night squid fishing trip.
Vung Tau night squid fishing tips for beginners
If you are a beginner and have no experience in night squid fishing, don’t worry. Local fishermen will enthusiastically guide you through basic squid fishing techniques:
- Choose bait: Squid bait is usually luminous artificial bait or fresh live shrimp and small fish. Depending on the type of squid and weather conditions, fishermen will advise you on the most suitable bait.
- Casting technique: Lower the bait into the water and hold the fishing rod in a comfortable position. When the squid bites, you will feel a slight pulling force at the tip of the rod. At this point, gently jerk the rod to hook the squid and slowly pull the squid up.
- Patiently waiting: Night squid fishing requires patience. Sometimes you have to wait quite a long time for a squid to bite. Relax, enjoy the night sea atmosphere, and don’t be discouraged!
Types of Vung Tau night squid fishing experiences
Currently, there are two popular types of night squid fishing experiences in Vung Tau:
- Squid fishing with fishermen: This is a cost-effective option and provides the closest experience to the fishermen’s life. You can directly contact fishermen in coastal fishing villages such as Phuoc Tinh and Ben Da to rent a boat and join them in squid fishing.
- Join a night squid fishing tour: Professionally organized night squid fishing tours usually include full services such as pick-up and drop-off, fishing boats, fishing gear, bait, dinner or snacks on the boat, and tour guides. This option is suitable for tourists who want a convenient and safe experience. You can easily search and book night squid fishing tours at travel companies or on online tour booking websites.
Suggested night squid fishing spots in Vung Tau
- Cua Lap Bridge area: This is one of the most famous night squid fishing spots in Vung Tau. This area has many underwater reefs, which are ideal shelters for squid.
- Ganh Rai Bay: Ganh Rai Bay is also a potential squid fishing spot with abundant seafood species.
- Offshore islands: If you want to have an offshore night squid fishing experience and explore the unspoiled beauty of the islands, you can rent a boat to offshore islands such as Hon Ba and Hon Nguu for squid fishing.
People enjoying night squid fishing in Vung Tau, Vietnam
Conclusion
Experiencing night squid fishing in Vung Tau will surely be a memorable memory in your journey to explore this beautiful coastal city. Not only is it an opportunity for you to try your hand at exciting fishing activities, but it is also a chance for you to immerse yourself in unspoiled nature, feel the magical beauty of the night sea, and learn more about the lives of coastal people. Try experiencing Vung Tau night squid fishing once, you won’t regret it!