About this tour
When Sarah from our team headed out on the Go Fishing Dubai trolling and regular fishing trip, she was up before dawn for a 5-hour mixed session on the water. The boat departs early (6:30am start) and takes you into Dubai's coastal waters where you'll split time between trolling for larger pelagic species like kingfish and barracuda, then switch to light-tackle regular fishing where everyone gets a rod. It's a straightforward operation: smaller group (max 5 people including kids), decent catch potential depending on season, and decent enough breakfast thrown in. The whole thing caters to curious anglers of varying skill rather than seasoned fishers after a trophy.
Highlights
- Two-method approach: trolling for big pelagics, then light-tackle regular fishing
- Early start means you're on the water as light breaks
- Everyone gets their own rod during the regular fishing portion
- Realistic catch mix: barracuda, kingfish, grouper, emperor, sea bream
- Small group cap keeps it relaxed, not a cattle-boat vibe
- Breakfast and drinks included—croissants and juice before the sun gets hot
- Shallow-draft waters suitable for kids aged 3 and up
What to expect
The alarm goes off early: you're meeting at 6:30am. Once aboard, the boat heads into Dubai's offshore waters at a steady pace. The trolling phase is fairly hands-off—crew drops lures behind the boat and you watch the lines. If something hits, things get lively; if not, you're watching the water and Gulf coastline drift past. After a couple of hours, gear changes, everyone gets a light rod, and the fishing becomes more active and immediate. You're casting, reeling, dealing with smaller fish that bite more reliably. The crew handles most of the technical side; you're mainly doing the work once a fish is on.
Season matters: summer brings small sharks into the mix; winter tends toward different species. Breakfast arrives early and takes the edge off the pre-dawn start. The pace is unhurried—it's not a race to catch limits, more about being on the water and having a genuinely decent shot at fish.
Good to know
If you actually want to fish rather than just sit on a boat, this splits the difference well. The dual method keeps it varied. Small group size means the crew isn't stretched thin. Kids can join from age 3, and it's not overly physical—you're seated most of the time. Breakfast and drinks take care of the early start.
The 6:30am departure is genuinely early and non-negotiable. Boat motion is real—not recommended if you have spinal issues, are pregnant, or have cardiovascular concerns; check with your doctor. Dubai sun gets serious fast even in cooler months, so sun protection is essential. The catch isn't guaranteed—you might land nothing or dozens depending on the day. Transportation to the dock isn't included, though public options exist nearby.
Bring sunscreen, hat, polarised sunnies, and a light layer for the pre-dawn chill. Wear non-slip shoes. Fishing equipment is supplied. Max group is 5 including children. Peak season is winter (cooler); summer is quieter but hotter.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.