When you picture Ha Long Bay, you imagine sun-drenched limestone karsts and emerald-green water. But as your local experts at Wigo Tourist, we’re here to let you in on a secret: the bay transforms into an entirely different, magical world after sunset. One of the most authentic and thrilling ways to experience this is squid fishing in Ha Long Bay.

This isn’t just a tour; it’s an adventure. It’s a chance to escape the daytime crowds, join local fishermen, and feel the quiet, profound rhythm of the sea under a blanket of stars. You’ll learn the local techniques, feel the thrill of the catch, and then—the best part—eat the freshest squid you’ve ever tasted, cooked right on the boat.

Many tourists see this on a poster but have no idea how to join, or if it’s safe. That’s why your partners at Wigo Tourist have created this complete guide. We’ll show you the best times to go, what to expect, and how Wigo Tourist can arrange a safe, private, and unforgettable squid fishing in Ha Long Bay experience for you.

Ha Long Bayy fishing

1. The Best Time for Squid Fishing in Ha Long Bay

Squid fishing in Ha Long Bay: A must-try experience

Timing is everything for this activity. While you can try squid fishing in Ha Long Bay year-round, the main seasons are when the sea is calm and the squid are most abundant.

  • Spring Season: February to April
  • Autumn Season: July to October

Most Wigo Tourist-guided trips start around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, just as the sun is setting, and last for 5-6 hours. This allows you to see the bay transform from day to night.

The Wigo Tourist Insider Tip (The Moon Matters!) Here’s a secret from our local fishermen: the best nights for squid fishing in Ha Long Bay are moonless nights.

Why? The entire technique relies on attracting the squid to your boat with bright, high-powered lamps. On a moonless night, your boat’s light is the brightest thing for miles, acting as a powerful magnet. On a full-moon night, the ambient light from the moon competes, and the squid are more dispersed.

When you book with Wigo Tourist, we don’t just check the weather; we check the lunar calendar to give you the absolute best chance of a successful catch.

2. What to Expect During Your Wigo Tourist Adventure

This isn’t a passive sightseeing tour. Wigo Tourist ensures you get a truly hands-on experience. Here’s a step-by-step of what your night will look like.

Part 1: The Magical Departure (Sightseeing)

Your private Wigo Tourist guide will meet you at your hotel or the pier. We’ll board a traditional, local fishing boat—fully equipped with safety gear—and head out from the harbor.

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This is when the magic begins. You’ll watch the bustling tourist port of Tuan Chau or Hon Gai fade away. The silhouettes of the limestone karsts grow dark against the deep purple sky. The air becomes cooler and salty. You’ll hear nothing but the gentle lapping of the waves against your boat’s hull. It’s a profound sense of peace you simply can’t get on a daytime cruise.

Part 2: The Thrill of the Catch (Hands-On Fishing)

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Once your captain finds the perfect, calm spot, the engine cuts. The big, bright lamp is switched on, illuminating the water around the boat in a glowing, emerald circle.

Your Wigo Tourist guide will hand you your gear—it’s simple, traditional, and effective: a bamboo rod with a line and a special lure. The hook is shaped like a small shrimp, designed to attract the squid.

There’s no complex casting. You simply drop the line into the water until it nears the bottom, then gently “jig” it up and down. Your guide will show you the perfect rhythm. Then, you wait.

You’ll feel a slight tug or a sudden heaviness on the line. That’s it! You’ll give a quick, steady pull (don’t yank!) and lift your catch out of the water. You’ll be amazed to see a translucent, glowing squid, often shooting a tiny jet of water or ink!

Part 3: The Ultimate Reward (Fresh-Caught Dinner)

Squid fishing in Ha Long Bay: A must-try night tour

This is the part you’ll remember forever. After the excitement of the catch, your boat crew will cook your squid right there on deck.

The preparation is simple, as it should be. The squid is often grilled over a small charcoal brazier or steamed. The taste is unlike anything you’ve ever had. Fresh-caught squid is incredibly tender, naturally sweet, and soft. It needs nothing more than a little chili sauce or a dip of lime, salt, and pepper.

Eating your own catch, still warm and smoky from the grill, while floating in the middle of a dark, silent bay… that’s the squid fishing in Ha Long Bay experience. Wigo Tourist will, of course, provide other dishes (like fried rice or vegetables) and cold drinks to make it a complete, delicious meal.

3. How to Go Squid Fishing in Ha Long Bay: The Wigo Way

You have a few options for squid fishing in Ha Long Bay, but they offer very different experiences. As your safety and quality-focused partner, Wigo Tourist wants you to know the difference.

Option 1: The “DIY” Method 

You can go to the Hon Gai pier (near Ha Long Market 1), try to find a local fisherman, and negotiate a price.

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The Risk: Wigo Tourist strongly advises against this. You will face a language barrier, have no way to verify the boat’s safety standards or if it even has life jackets, and prices will be inconsistent. It is not a safe or reliable option for visitors.

Option 2: The Overnight Cruise Activity (The “Taster”)

Most 4 and 5-star overnight cruises that Wigo Tourist partners with will offer squid fishing as a free, optional activity after dinner.

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The Pros: It’s convenient, safe, and included in your cruise.

The Cons: It’s more of a “taster” than a real experience. You’ll be fishing from the back of a huge, brightly-lit cruise ship (which isn’t ideal) with 20-30 other guests, all sharing a few rods for about an hour. It’s fun, but it’s not the authentic adventure.

Option 3: The Wigo Tourist Private Tour (The BEST Way)

This is the signature experience that Wigo Tourist recommends and provides. We arrange a private, dedicated squid fishing tour just for you, your family, or your group.

A Wigo Tourist Private Tour Includes:

  • Private Hotel Transfers: We pick you up from your hotel (like the Vinpearl ferry terminal) in a comfortable, air-conditioned car.
  • A Safe, Vetted Local Boat: We partner with licensed, experienced local fishermen who have clean, safe boats equipped with all safety gear, including life jackets for all passengers.
  • A Private Wigo Tourist Guide: You’ll have a friendly, English-speaking guide with you the entire time. They’ll translate, teach you the techniques, and assist you with everything.
  • All Gear Provided: Professional rods, lines, lures, and lights.
  • A Full 5-6 Hour Experience: This is the real, authentic adventure, not a 60-minute taster.
  • Travel Insurance: Your safety is our priority, and you’re covered on all our tours.
  • Full Dinner on Board: We provide a full, delicious meal, including the squid you catch!

This is the ultimate way to experience squid fishing in Ha Long Bay—safely, authentically, and in total comfort.

4. Wigo Tourist’s Pro-Tips for Your Night at Sea

A little preparation makes for a perfect trip. Here’s what our Wigo Tourist guides suggest you bring.

What to Bring Along:

  • A Warm Jacket: Even on a hot day, the sea breeze at night gets cold. This is the #1 thing people forget.
  • Non-Slip Shoes: The boat deck can get wet. Wear sandals with a grip or trainers, not flip-flops.
  • Motion Sickness Medicine: If you are prone to seasickness, take your medicine one hour before you board the boat. The water is calm, but it’s better to be safe.
  • Waterproof Phone Case: You will want to take photos!
  • Small Cash: For tipping your boat captain and crew if you had a great time.
  • A Sense of Patience! It’s called fishing, not catching. Some nights are bountiful; others are quiet. The real joy is the experience itself.

What to Note (The Wigo Safety Briefing):

  • Listen to your Wigo Tourist guide and the boat crew. They will give you a safety briefing.
  • Life jackets are mandatory on our tours, especially when moving.
  • Watch the Ink! When you pull a squid out of the water, it may spray ink as a defense. Hold it away from your body, or your guide will help you.
  • Keep Your Balance: Always be mindful of your footing, especially when the boat rocks.
  • Respect the Sea: Wigo Tourist practices responsible tourism. Please do not throw any trash overboard.

FAQs About Ha Long Bay Squid Fishing

Q1: Is squid fishing in Ha Long Bay safe at night? A1: Yes, it is extremely safe when booked through a reputable company like Wigo Tourist. Our boats are licensed, inspected, and equipped with life jackets and safety gear. We would never recommend the “DIY” method, as you cannot verify the boat’s safety.

Q2: Do I need any fishing experience to join? A2: Absolutely not! This is the perfect tour for complete beginners. Your Wigo Tourist guide will show you the simple “jigging” technique in two minutes. It’s easy for all ages.

Q3: Is this a good activity for kids? A3: A Wigo Tourist private tour is a fantastic activity for children (we recommend ages 5 and up). They will be thrilled by the boat ride in the dark, the bright light, and the excitement of catching their own squid. It’s a real-life adventure they’ll never forget.

Q4: Can I eat the squid I catch? A4: Yes! This is the best part. The crew will cook your catch for you right on the boat.

Q5: How long does a Wigo Tourist squid fishing trip last? A5: Our private, dedicated tours are the full experience, lasting about 5 to 6 hours (including dinner). If you are on an overnight cruise, the activity is much shorter, usually 1 hour.

Q6: Will I definitely catch a squid? A6: While we check the lunar calendar and our captains know the best spots, we can’t guarantee a catch. But we can guarantee a beautiful, peaceful night on the bay, a delicious meal, and an authentic experience far from the crowds.

Contact Wigo Tourist today to book your private squid fishing adventure and discover the magic of Ha Long Bay by night!