FISHING IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA
From legendary black marlin in deep blue waters to the elusive PNG Black Bass found nowhere else on earth — Papua New Guinea offers some of the most extraordinary fishing experiences on the planet.
THREE WORLDS OF EXTRAORDINARY FISHING
Papua New Guinea’s diverse geography creates three distinct fishing environments, each offering unique species and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re chasing billfish offshore, battling black bass in jungle rivers, or casting along pristine coral coastlines — PNG delivers world-class fishing that few destinations can match.
BLUE WATER GAME FISHING
The coastal waters around Madang, New Britain, and New Ireland are teeming with black and blue marlin, sailfish, and dogtooth tuna. World-class billfish action is often just minutes from shore — in some areas, the continental shelf drops away within sight of the harbour.
Madang’s waters famously produced 121 marlin hookups in a single four-day tournament, cementing PNG’s reputation as one of the great marlin fisheries of the Pacific. The season runs year-round, with peak billfish action from October to May.
JUNGLE RIVER FISHING
Deep in the dense jungle rivers of Papua New Guinea hides the legendary PNG Black Bass — the lure-shy river tiger found nowhere else on earth. Known locally as “Niugini Bass,” this powerful predator is regarded as one of the most challenging freshwater species to catch on a lure.
Fishing the rivers of PNG is as much a cultural experience as a sporting one. Remote lodges provide access to pristine, unpressured waterways where traditional village life continues much as it has for centuries. Anglers travel by dugout canoe through spectacular jungle scenery to reach the best fishing spots.
⟩COASTAL & ESTUARY FISHING
Where ocean currents run close to shore, sailfish hunt in packs alongside mahi mahi, mackerel, and giant trevally. PNG’s thousands of kilometres of coastline offer incredible variety — from coral reef flats to mangrove-lined estuaries teeming with life.
Remote island fishing camps combine offshore access with pristine reef fishing. Light tackle anglers can target GT on the flats while heavy tackle crews head out for sailfish and tuna — often all in the same day. The diversity of PNG’s coastal fishing is unmatched in the Pacific.
WHERE TO FISH IN PNG
Key fishing regions across Papua New Guinea.
MADANG
Known as the “prettiest town in the Pacific,” Madang is PNG’s premier billfish destination. Deep water close to shore means marlin action within minutes of leaving the harbour.
KIMBE & NEW BRITAIN
Home of the San Remo GFC and host of the 2026 National Titles. Kimbe Bay’s rich volcanic waters support incredible biodiversity and outstanding game fishing year-round.
PORT MORESBY
PNG’s capital is home to the country’s original game fishing club. The waters off the Central Province and nearby reefs offer excellent access to a variety of pelagic and reef species.
LAE & MOROBE
PNG’s industrial hub also offers excellent fishing. The Huon Gulf provides access to blue water species while the Markham River system is renowned for barramundi and black bass.
LIHIR ISLAND
Remote and pristine, Lihir Island in the New Ireland Province offers world-class fishing in waters that see very little pressure. An emerging destination for serious game fishers.
BOROKO
Home of the Boroko Sports Fishing Club, one of the GFA’s affiliated clubs based in the Port Moresby area. Active in local tournaments and a strong contributor to PNG’s game fishing community.
READY TO FISH PAPUA NEW GUINEA?
Whether you’re an experienced game fisher or planning your first trip to PNG, the Game Fishing Association of Papua New Guinea can help connect you with affiliated clubs, local operators, and everything you need to experience world-class fishing in one of the last great frontiers.