Chiang Mai Fishing Guides
Chiang Mai fishing charters don’t run offshore—they focus on freshwater lakes, stocked fishing parks, and rivers for giant Mekong catfish, Siamese carp, arapaima, snakehead, and barramundi.
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Chiang Mai, TH Fishing Guide
Chiang Mai sits in the mountains of northern Thailand, far from the coast, so fishing here is strictly freshwater. Instead of chasing marlin or tuna, anglers target exotic species in managed lakes, stocked fishing parks, and local rivers. The city is surrounded by popular freshwater venues like Borsang Lake and Chiang Mai Fishing Park, where catches can include record-class Mekong catfish over 200 pounds, monster Siamese carp, and imported species like arapaima and alligator gar. Wild waters—mainly rivers and reservoirs—offer native snakehead and featherback for those seeking a more traditional experience.
Most charters or guided trips here are day sessions. Half-day trips usually fish private ponds or stocked lakes, where action is fast and gear is provided. Full-day outings may include targeting multiple venues or trekking to wild reservoirs and rivers outside the city. Unlike the coast, fishing in Chiang Mai is about big, powerful freshwater species and the unique opportunity to catch fish rarely seen elsewhere.
The fishery structure is varied. Managed lakes hold deep pools for giant catfish and shallow shelves where carp feed. Stocked fishing parks often include multiple exotic species, making for unpredictable sessions. Wild waters like Mae Ngat Dam or Ping River deliver snakehead and native species, with less guarantee of action but a more natural setting.
Seasonal conditions shift with weather. The hot season (March–May) sees catfish and carp feeding heavily. The rainy season (June–October) raises water levels, spreading baitfish and sparking strong snakehead action in reservoirs. Cool season (November–February) brings pleasant weather and steady fishing across lakes, making it the most comfortable time for visiting anglers.
Techniques depend on the target. Heavy bottom rigs with dough bait or pellets are used for giant catfish and Siamese carp. Live or cut bait is common for predatory species like barramundi and arapaima. Snakehead are often taken on topwater frogs or lures cast along weed lines, while fly anglers occasionally target carp and featherback. Guides usually provide rods, reels, bait, and local expertise, making Chiang Mai’s freshwater fisheries accessible for both beginners and seasoned anglers.
Fishing Seasons in Chiang Mai
Spring (March–May)
The hot season sees fish feeding heavily in lakes and ponds. Mekong catfish and Siamese carp are especially active, taking pellet baits and dough balls. Snakehead also bite aggressively in rivers and reservoirs, striking surface lures in shallow cover. Heat can be intense, but fishing remains steady throughout the day.
Summer (June–August)
The rainy season swells rivers and dams, spreading baitfish and vegetation. Snakehead fishing peaks, with explosive strikes on topwater lures. Lakes and fishing parks remain productive for catfish, carp, and arapaima, though muddy water can slow some days. Cloud cover and rainfall often make conditions more comfortable than the hot season.
Fall (September–November)
As rains taper off, waters stabilize and both stocked and wild fisheries produce well. Carp and catfish remain steady in ponds, while snakehead and featherback feed actively before cooler weather. This is one of the best seasons for mixed trips targeting both exotics and native species.
Winter (December–February)
Cool season is the most comfortable time to fish in Chiang Mai. Daytime temperatures are mild, making long sessions on the water pleasant. Lakes and fishing parks remain steady for giant catfish, carp, and arapaima, while reservoirs produce consistent snakehead action. Many visiting anglers prefer this window for its combination of weather and steady bites
Gamefish in Chiang Mai
- Mekong Catfish – 50–200+ lbs. Stocked in fishing parks, strongest in hot season, targeted with pellets and dough baits.
- Siamese Carp – 30–100+ lbs. Found in managed lakes, peak in spring and fall, best with groundbait and boilies.
- Arapaima – 50–200 lbs. Exotic stocked species, year-round in fishing parks, taken on live bait and lures.
- Snakehead – 5–20 lbs. Found in reservoirs and rivers, strongest in rainy season, best with topwater frogs and plugs.
- Barramundi – 5–20 lbs. Stocked in some lakes, year-round, best with live bait and lures.
- Featherback – 2–8 lbs. Native to rivers and lakes, strongest in fall and winter, best with live bait and small lures
- Alligator Gar – 20–100 lbs. Introduced species in fishing parks, available year-round on live or cut bait.
- Tilapia – 1–5 lbs. Common in lakes, steady year-round, often taken on worms or bread.
Chiang Mai Fishing FAQs
Where do Chiang Mai fishing trips depart from?
Most guides pick anglers up at hotels in Chiang Mai and transfer them to local lakes, fishing parks, or reservoirs within 30–90 minutes of the city.
What types of trips are common in Chiang Mai?
Half-day trips target stocked lakes with giant catfish and carp. Full-day trips may combine multiple venues or explore wild rivers and reservoirs.
Do I need a fishing license in Thailand?
No license is required for fishing in stocked lakes or guided trips, though wild waters may have local permits.
When is the best time to fish Chiang Mai?
December–February is the most comfortable for visitors, though March–May is peak for aggressive catfish and carp action. Rainy season is best for snakehead.
What techniques are used in Chiang Mai?
Heavy bottom rigs with pellets or dough are used for catfish and carp. Snakehead are caught casting surface frogs and lures. Live bait and cut bait are common for arapaima, barramundi, and gar.
What species can I expect in the fishing parks?
Mekong catfish, Siamese carp, arapaima, barramundi, and alligator gar are among the most common targets
Are wild fishing options available in Chiang Mai?
Yes, some guides offer trips to the Ping River or Mae Ngat Dam for snakehead, featherback, and other native fish.
How many anglers can fish on a trip?
Fishing parks often accommodate 2–4 anglers per guide, with group packages available for larger parties.
Are family-friendly trips available?
Yes, stocked lakes are very family-friendly, with short travel times, steady action, and safe environments for kids.