Exotic Fishing
PREHISTORIC RIVER MONSTERS OF PHUKET
Come face to face with two extraordinary survivors from another age – and discover where you can
actually catch them.
Long before humans walked the earth, strange and formidable fish were already patrolling its rivers and
lakes. While many creatures from the prehistoric world disappeared millions of years ago, a handful of
remarkable fish survived, retaining appearances that would not look out of place swimming alongside
dinosaurs.
Two of the most spectacular are the Arapaima and Alligator Gar – and incredibly, both can be found and
caught just a short journey from Phuket.
Native to the Amazon basin of South America, the Arapaima is one of the world’s largest freshwater fish.
With its huge scales, powerful body and distinctive red markings, a fully grown specimen is an
unforgettable sight. Arapaima are also air breathers and regularly rise to the surface to gulp atmospheric
oxygen. Growing to well over 200lb, they possess extraordinary power and can explode from the water
when hooked, making them one of the most exciting freshwater sport fish on the planet.
The Alligator Gar looks even more prehistoric. Native to North America, its ancestors have existed for
more than 100 million years. Its long, broad snout is filled with rows of sharp teeth, while its body is
protected by incredibly hard, armour-like scales. Looking at a large Alligator Gar, it is easy to understand
why the species has changed relatively little over the ages.
Visitors to Phuket have the rare opportunity to encounter both of these incredible species at the fishing
lake resort Exotic Fishing Thailand, located amongst the spectacular limestone mountains of neighbouring
Phang Nga.
The resort’s Main Lake is the centrepiece of the fishing experience. Covering approximately ten acres, it
contains more than 50 exotic species from around the world and over 300 specimen fish exceeding 100lb.
More than 100 fish exceed 200lb, with the largest specimens approaching an extraordinary 400lb.
Alongside Arapaima and Alligator Gar, anglers can encounter Giant Siamese Carp, Mekong Catfish, Chao
Phraya Catfish, Amazon Redtail Catfish and numerous other unusual species.
For visitors who have limited time available, there is another option.
The purpose-built Arapaima Day Ticket Lake was created specifically to provide anglers with an excellent
opportunity to catch one of these prehistoric giants during a single day’s fishing. It holds a large
population of Arapaima ranging from around 90lb to more than 250lb, together with Alligator Gar,
Amazon Redtail Catfish and several other predatory species.
With only three fishing areas and a maximum of eight rods permitted each day, fishing pressure is
deliberately limited giving an estimated catch rate of 70%.
You don’t need to be an experienced angler either. Tackle, bait and experienced fishing guides are
available, making the experience accessible to beginners, families, couples and serious anglers alike.
So, while Phuket is famous for beaches, islands and nightlife, one of the region’s most unusual adventures
lies just beyond the island – the opportunity to come face to face with a genuine prehistoric river monster.
Discover more and book your fishing experience at www.exoticfishingthailand.com or email
[email protected] for a quote.
Exotic Fishing Thailand
8/4 Moo 1, Bann Bangtoey Nua, T.Bangtoey,A.Muang Phang nga, Phang nga, Thailand 82000
+66(0)88 379 9377, Thai +66(0)81 199 5922
