Squid Fishing in Halong Bay: Travel Guide

Squid Fishing in Halong Bay: Ultimate Guide to 25 Best Spots & Tips

Embarking on a nighttime squid fishing adventure in Halong Bay offers one of Vietnam’s most authentic maritime experiences. As the sun sets behind the limestone karsts, a whole new world awakens beneath the surface of Halong’s emerald waters. Join me as we explore this traditional Vietnamese activity that combines local culture, culinary delights, and unforgettable memories under the starlit sky.

What Makes Squid Fishing in Halong Bay So Special?

Halong Bay isn’t just about daytime sightseeing—it transforms into a magical playground after dark. When the limestone karsts become silhouettes against the night sky, fishermen and tourists alike gather on boats equipped with special lights that pierce the water’s surface, creating the perfect environment for squid fishing.

The Cultural Significance of Squid Fishing

For generations, local fishermen have used traditional methods to catch squid in these waters. What began as a crucial economic activity has evolved into a beloved tourist experience that preserves Vietnamese maritime heritage. Squid fishing represents more than just catching seafood—it’s a window into Vietnam’s deep connection with the sea.

The fishing technique used in Halong Bay, known locally as “câu mực đêm,” has been passed down through generations of fishing families. Unlike commercial fishing operations elsewhere, Halong Bay’s squid fishing maintains many traditional elements while incorporating modern comforts for tourists.

Types of Squid You Can Catch in Halong Bay

Halong Bay is home to several squid species, making each fishing expedition a unique adventure:

Bigfin Reef Squid (Sepioteuthis lessoniana) – The most common catch, reaching up to 40cm in length
Mitre Squid (Uroteuthis chinensis) – Smaller but abundant, especially from March to June
Swordtip Squid (Uroteuthis edulis) – Prized for its tender flesh, most active October to December
Whiparm Octopus – Not technically squid but occasionally caught using the same methods

According to marine biologists from the Vietnam Institute of Oceanography, Halong Bay’s ecosystem supports one of the most diverse squid populations in Southeast Asia, with over 15 different species documented in these waters.

The 25 Best Spots for Squid Fishing in Halong Bay

Based on catch rates, water conditions, and scenic beauty, these locations offer the ultimate squid fishing experience:

1. Cua Van Fishing Village Waters

Located near one of the last remaining floating fishing villages, these waters benefit from generations of local knowledge. The depth here averages 15-20 meters—ideal for squid habitat—with minimal current disturbance.

2. Ti Top Island Southern Approach

The protected southern waters of Ti Top provide calm conditions and depths of 8-12 meters where squid congregate. The spectacular backdrop of the island’s silhouette makes for unforgettable photos of your nighttime adventure.

3. Luon Cave Bay Area

This secluded spot offers protection from winds and a sandy bottom that attracts numerous squid species. The water clarity here often exceeds 5 meters even at night, increasing your chances of spotting squid approaching your lures.

4. Ba Trai Dao Islets

This area between the three islets creates a natural breeding ground for squid with its nutrient-rich waters. Water temperatures here typically remain 1-2°C warmer than surrounding areas, attracting larger squid specimens.

5. Me Cung Cave Waters

The limestone formations create underwater caverns where squid hide during daylight hours, emerging at night to feed. Boats typically anchor 100-150 meters from the cave entrance for optimal fishing.

6. Vung Vieng Village Channel

The channel waters reach depths of 25 meters and feature underwater currents that bring nutrient-rich water, attracting larger squid. Local fishermen report 30% higher catch rates here than in neighboring areas.

7. Trinh Nu Cave Bay

The sheltered waters provide ideal conditions for night fishing, with minimal light pollution from other vessels. The bay’s unique ecosystem supports both reef and open-water squid species.

8. Lan Ha Bay Eastern Edge

While technically connecting to Halong Bay, this area offers some of the highest squid concentrations, particularly during spring months. The water here features a unique salinity level (approximately 32 PPT) that squid find particularly attractive.

9. Dau Go Cave Waters

The nutrient runoff from the cave system creates a microenvironment where squid thrive. Fish here from the boat deck or join smaller sampan vessels for a more intimate experience.

10. Hang Sung Sot Area

The massive limestone formations create underwater structures where squid gather. Water depths range from 10-30 meters, allowing for various fishing techniques.

11. Ngoc Vung Island Northern Shore

Less frequented by tourist boats, this area provides a more authentic experience with local fishing boats often working nearby. The sandy bottom here is ideal for certain squid species that prefer this terrain.

12. Cong Dam Area

This sheltered area offers protection from northeastern winds, making it accessible even during monsoon season. The underwater topography features numerous small ridges where squid congregate.

13. Bai Tu Long Bay Boundary Waters

The transition zone where Halong and Bai Tu Long Bays meet creates unique water movements that concentrate plankton—a key food source for squid. This ecological intersection results in 40% more biodiversity than single-bay areas.

14. Quan Lan Island Channel

The deep channel (reaching 35 meters) between the mainland and Quan Lan Island funnels nutrient-rich currents that attract larger squid specimens. Some of the region’s record catches have been recorded here.

15. Tuan Chau Harbor Outer Waters

Despite being close to the main harbor, these waters offer surprising squid populations due to strict fishing regulations. This accessibility makes it perfect for shorter excursions.

16. Thien Cung Cave Approach

The underwater topography leading to the cave creates ideal hunting grounds for squid. The boat anchoring spots offer spectacular views of illuminated cave entrances while fishing.

17. Trong Mai Islet (Kissing Rocks)

The iconic rock formation creates underwater currents that concentrate small fish and plankton, attracting feeding squid. The scenery here is particularly breathtaking under moonlight.

18. Van Don Island Southern Shore

This area offers deeper waters (20-40 meters) where larger squid species hunt. The fishing spots here benefit from minimal light pollution, creating ideal conditions.

19. Bo Hon Island Archipelago

The complex of small islands creates numerous protected bays where squid congregate. Water temperature averages 24-26°C during peak season, ideal for squid activity.

20. Ga Choi Island Waters

The unique underwater rock formations create hunting grounds for squid. Boats typically anchor 50-100 meters offshore for optimal fishing opportunities.

21. Dinh Huong Island Passage

The narrow passage between islands concentrates marine life, including several squid species. Current patterns here create “feeding zones” where catch rates increase significantly.

22. Dau Be Island Bay

This sheltered bay features depths ranging from 8-15 meters with excellent water clarity, making it easier to spot approaching squid. The southern approach offers the best results.

23. Soi Sim Island Western Side

Protected from prevailing winds, this area offers calm waters even during windier months. The island’s volcanic soil creates mineral-rich runoff that supports the marine food chain.

24. Ho Ba Ham Lagoon Entrance

The entrance to this three-lake lagoon system creates a natural funnel where squid congregate. Water here maintains a consistent temperature year-round, supporting stable squid populations.

25. Hai Tien Cave Outer Waters

Recently added to tourist routes, these waters offer some of the least fished populations in Halong Bay. Scientific surveys in 2024 indicated 35% higher squid biomass here than in more frequented areas.

Best Time for Squid Fishing in Halong Bay

Timing is everything when it comes to successful squid fishing. While you can catch squid year-round in Halong Bay, certain seasons offer distinctly better experiences.

Prime Season (March-June)

This spring period represents the peak spawning season for several squid species in Halong Bay. Water temperatures ranging from 22-28°C create ideal conditions, with catch rates typically 60-70% higher than other seasons. According to marine biologist Dr. Nguyen Van Hai from Vietnam National University, “The increased hormonal activity during spawning makes squid more aggressive and likely to strike at lures.”

March: Early season with water temperature around 22°C. Bigfin reef squid begin appearing in significant numbers.

April: Peak activity period with water temperature reaching 24-25°C. Average catch rates of 5-8 squid per person per hour.

May: Excellent visibility (often exceeding 8 meters) and consistent water temperatures around 26°C make this month particularly reliable.

June: Still productive but with increasing possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Water temperature reaches 27-28°C.

Secondary Peak (October-December)

As water temperatures cool from summer highs, a second productive period emerges:

October: Post-monsoon waters begin clearing with reduced rainfall. Water temperature drops to 26°C, triggering increased feeding activity.

November: Ideal 23-24°C water temperature and minimal rainfall. The swordtip squid becomes more prevalent during this month.

December: Cooler waters (20-22°C) but extremely clear visibility often exceeding 10 meters. Northern winds can create choppier conditions, but protected bays remain productive.

Lunar Calendar Considerations

Squid activity correlates strongly with lunar phases. According to data from Halong Bay fishing cooperatives, catch rates increase by 40-80% during:

New moon periods (complete darkness)
Days 3-5 after new moon
Days 3-5 before new moon

Conversely, full moon periods typically show reduced catch rates as the bright moonlight disperses squid into deeper waters.

How to Go Squid Fishing in Halong Bay: 7 Essential Methods

Whether you’re a complete novice or experienced angler, these methods will maximize your squid fishing success in Halong Bay.

1. Traditional Handline Method

Equipment: Simple handline with specialized squid jig

Technique: Lower the line to desired depth (typically 5-15 meters) and employ a rhythmic jigging motion—pull up sharply 30-40cm, then allow the jig to flutter back down.

This method connects you directly to the fishing experience without the mechanical advantage of a rod. You’ll feel even the slightest nibble through the line, though it requires more arm strength for extended fishing sessions.

2. Modern Squid Rod Technique

Equipment: Light 1.8-2.1 meter rod with specialized squid reel

Technique: Cast out 10-15 meters from the boat and retrieve with intermittent pauses, mimicking injured prey.

Most luxury cruises in Halong Bay now provide these specialized rods that offer better casting distance and control. The 3-day 5-star Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay cruise includes premium equipment with illuminated rod tips that signal strikes even in complete darkness.

3. Specialized Lure Selection

Different squid species respond to specific lure designs:

Cloth jigs: Traditional option handmade by local fishermen, often using luminescent fabric
Wooden jigs: Hand-carved lures featuring multiple prongs and artificial bait
Modern EGI jigs: Weighted plastic lures with realistic shrimp patterns and glow-in-the-dark features

The latest 2025 EGI jigs feature microchip-controlled LED patterns that pulsate to mimic distressed prey, increasing strike rates by up to 35% in controlled tests.

4. Light Attraction Method

Equipment: Underwater LED fishing lights (green spectrum 520-530nm)

Technique: Deploy lights 2-3 meters below the surface to attract plankton, which in turn attracts squid.

Green light penetrates water most effectively and creates the ideal attraction spectrum for both plankton and squid. Modern LED systems used on premium Halong Bay cruises consume minimal power while producing 6,000-8,000 lumens of squid-attracting illumination.

5. Depth Selection Strategy

Different times and conditions call for targeting various water depths:

Early evening (7-9pm): Focus on shallow waters (3-8 meters)
Mid-evening (9-11pm): Target mid-depths (8-15 meters)
Late night (after 11pm): Explore deeper waters (15-25 meters)

Using a fish finder or depth sounder can help identify thermoclines—temperature boundary layers where squid often congregate. These typically form at depths of 12-18 meters in Halong Bay during spring months.

6. Weather-Adapted Approaches

Adapt your technique to prevailing conditions:

Calm waters: Use lighter jigs with more subtle movements
Slight chop: Employ more aggressive jerking motions with heavier jigs
Overcast nights: Focus on using luminescent lures as squid hunt more actively
Clear nights: Target deeper waters where squid may retreat from moonlight

7. Traditional Knowledge Integration

Local fishermen employ specific signs to locate productive areas:

Water color changes indicating plankton concentration
Presence of certain bird species that feed on the same prey as squid
Subtle surface disturbances indicating feeding activity below

Many cruise operators now include local fishermen as guides who share generations of accumulated knowledge about Halong Bay’s unique marine environment.

Top Halong Bay Cruises for Squid Fishing Experiences

Not all Halong Bay cruises offer the same quality of squid fishing experiences. These selections represent the finest options for 2025, based on equipment quality, fishing location access, and overall experience.