A tourist poses with his trophy after a fishing in Vung Tau

Fishing buffs can take their passion to a whole new level now with trips into the ocean off the southern beach town of Vung Tau.

Modern vessels like the Ganh Hao 01, equipped with fishing rods, bait and high-tech fishing equipment including Global Positioning System (GPS) and fish-finding sonar systems have been put into service for the special expeditions.

The trip usually starts at the Hon Ba (Ba Islet), one of the best sightseeing places in the town with a beautiful view of the ocean bathed in warm sunlight.

Fishing tourists are accompanied by skilled steersmen on board to instruct them in the techniques of line-trawling or choosing the fishing-area. Thanh Dat, captain of Ganh Hao 01, said the harvest from each trip will depend on several factors including the weather, tide and personal skills.

Tourists can also enjoy the taste of their catch onboard with help from the staff. The ships’ kitchens can make a wide range of dishes with fresh seacooking including chao ca (fish gruel), ca nuong (grilled fish), goi ca (mixed raw fish and vegetables), and lau ca (fish hotpot).

Customers can also decide the fishing route if they do not wish to spend time at Hon Ba. The steersmen will take them to other places like Dau Beach, Long Son Islet and Sao Mai Beach.

Huu, a local, is very attracted to this tour. “I am really addicted to fishing. I usually hire a ship on the weekend and set out with my friends.

“One of the best times to fish is at night, while your fishing location and trophy can be expanded, and catch can include squids in Con Dao, Shark Cape, Dai Cape, Nghinh Phong Cape, and Bay Canh Island. The night scenery of the islands is unforgettable,” Huu said.

Tourists can hire ships for VND1.5 million (US$84) for six hours at the Ganh Hao Restaurant, 3 Tran Phu Street, which is also the departing venue for the tours.

The Saigon-Con Dao Resort at 18 Ton Duc Thang Street on Con Dao Island also provides a similar fishing service with more challenging game including small sharks.

Reported by Kim