Planning a night on the water in Halong Bay and wondering what to do after sunset? Squid fishing is one of those rare experiences that turns a good cruise into an unforgettable one. Rooted in generations of local fishing tradition, it has become one of the most-loved nighttime activities among travelers exploring this UNESCO-listed wonder. This guide covers everything you need to know before you cast your first line, from timing and technique to gear, sustainability, and which cruises do it best.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Squid Fishing in Halong Bay
There are plenty of things to do in Halong Bay during the day, but the magic really starts after dark. When the sun dips behind the limestone karsts and the bay settles into calm, that’s when squid fishing begins, and it’s something truly special.
The cruise crew hands out fishing rods fitted with specially designed lures, and friendly local guides walk you through every step, so no experience is needed whatsoever. What makes it even better is what comes next: your fresh catch goes straight to the kitchen, and within minutes, you’re eating squid that was swimming in the bay moments earlier. Simply boiled or grilled with a squeeze of lime, it tastes like nothing you’d find on a restaurant menu.
Beyond the catch itself, there’s something deeply atmospheric about sitting on the deck at night, surrounded by glittering water and towering karst silhouettes. The lights from the boat reflect across the surface, the sea breeze is cool and refreshing, and the whole bay feels like it belongs only to you. It’s the kind of evening that stays with you long after the trip is over.
Best Time for Squid Fishing in Halong Bay
Squid fishing is available year-round in Halong Bay, but timing your visit well makes a big difference in how much you’ll catch and how comfortable the experience will be.
Peak Season: October to February
Local fishermen who have worked these waters for decades consistently point to late autumn through early winter as the golden window. October and November are particularly productive, when squid are larger, more abundant, and actively feeding closer to the surface. This period also aligns with the main tourism season in Halong Bay, so cruise availability is at its best.
From December through February, temperatures can drop noticeably at night, so pack a jacket. If temperatures fall below 10°C, it’s worth staying aboard and enjoying the bay from the comfort of your cabin instead.
A Local Secret Worth Knowing
Experienced fishermen in Halong Bay will tell you that moonless nights are the best nights for squid fishing. Without the moon’s glow competing, squid are drawn directly to your fishing light, making them far easier to attract and catch. Keep an eye on the lunar calendar when planning your 2026/2027 trip, as it can genuinely tip the odds in your favor.
What About Other Months?
March to June offers pleasant weather and calmer seas, making it a reasonable time for squid fishing even outside peak season. July and August, however, bring tropical storms that can disrupt or cancel cruise itineraries entirely, so those months are best avoided if squid fishing is high on your list.
Choosing the Right Gear for Squid Fishing
You don’t need to be an angler to enjoy squid fishing in Halong Bay, but understanding your equipment helps you get the most out of the experience. Most cruise operators provide gear on board, though knowing what to look for gives you an edge.
The Best Artificial Bait
Squid fishing uses a rubber lure shaped like a shrimp, odorless and colored to mimic the real thing, attached directly to the fishing line. When it hits the water, it sinks slowly and moves naturally, triggering the squid’s instinct to strike. The squid wraps its tentacles around the lure, and that’s your cue to pull.
Among the most effective options available is the Yo-Zuri lure from Japan, which comes with a built-in luminescent system that attracts squid even in deep, dark water. It’s slightly pricier at around USD 5 per lure, but the results speak for themselves. Chinese-made alternatives are cheaper and more widely available, though they tend to be less effective in low-light conditions.
You can bring your own bait from Hanoi, or simply purchase it on board. The crew is always happy to advise on the best option for the night’s conditions.
Picking the Right Rod
For squid fishing in Halong Bay, a rod between 2 to 3 meters in length works best, paired with a fishing line of around 20 to 25 meters. The crew will help you set everything up, so don’t worry if you’ve never rigged a line before. Getting the setup right from the start makes the whole experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Squid Fishing Technique: How to Actually Catch One
This is where patience pays off. Squid fishing isn’t about brute force or luck alone; there’s a rhythm to it, and once you feel it, the whole process clicks into place.
- Lower the line slowly. Drop it gradually rather than casting it out fast. A controlled descent keeps the lure moving naturally.
- Stay alert once it’s in the water. Watch the tip of your rod and keep a light tension on the line.
- Feel for the pull. When a squid grabs the lure, the rod will feel noticeably heavier and you’ll see slight movement at the surface. That’s your signal.
- Pull up quickly but smoothly. A sharp, controlled lift is all it takes. Too much force and you’ll lose the squid; too little and it slips away.
- Reset after five minutes. If nothing happens, pull the line up, clear the lure of any debris, and try again. Persistence is part of the game.
The local guides on board are genuinely skilled and love sharing their knowledge with guests. Let them show you the first cast, and you’ll pick it up faster than you’d expect.
Squid Fishing in Lan Ha Bay: A Hidden Gem
While most travelers associate squid fishing with Halong Bay’s main areas, Lan Ha Bay has quietly become one of the best-kept secrets for a more intimate fishing experience. Located just south of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay sits in a less-trafficked stretch of water where the sea is calmer, the skies are darker, and the squid are plentiful.
If you’re weighing up where to base your overnight cruise, Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long both offer excellent squid fishing away from the busier central zones of Halong. Fewer boats on the water means less light pollution, which makes your fishing light far more effective at drawing squid to the surface.
For those who want a truly local feel, an evening of squid fishing near Cua Van fishing village or Vung Vieng fishing village adds an extra layer of authenticity to the whole experience. Watching local fishing families work the same waters by lamplight is something guidebooks rarely capture.
What to Wear and Bring for a Night of Squid Fishing
A little preparation goes a long way when you’re spending the evening on the open water. Here’s what to pack before heading out on deck:
- A light jacket or windbreaker: temperatures drop quickly after dark, even in warmer months
- Non-slip shoes: the deck gets wet and slippery once fishing is underway
- Insect repellent: mosquitoes can appear over the bay at night, especially near the shoreline
- A small towel or hand sanitizer: handling squid and fishing gear gets messy fast
- A portable phone grip or wrist strap: you’ll want your hands free but your phone close
- A reusable water bottle: staying hydrated during the activity is easy to overlook
Leave valuables in your cabin and dress in layers. Comfort matters more than style when you’re balancing a fishing rod in the dark.
Night Photography Tips: Capturing the Experience
Squid fishing at night in Halong Bay is incredibly photogenic, and with a few simple adjustments, your shots can go from blurry to breathtaking.
For smartphone users, switch to Night Mode and prop your phone against a stable surface or use a small tripod. The long exposure does most of the work for you, picking up the warm light of the boat against the dark water beautifully. Avoid using flash, as it washes out the natural atmosphere entirely.
For camera users, shoot in manual mode with a wide aperture (f/1.8 to f/2.8), a high ISO between 1600 and 3200, and a shutter speed of around 1/60s to freeze movement without too much blur. The reflections of the boat lights on the water and the silhouettes of the karsts in the background create naturally stunning compositions. Capture the moment someone pulls up a catch, and you’ll have a shot worth framing.
Eco-Friendly Squid Fishing: Enjoying the Bay Responsibly
Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most treasured natural landscapes, and keeping it that way starts with how visitors interact with it. Squid fishing, when done thoughtfully, has minimal environmental impact, but there are a few habits worth building.
Stick to the equipment provided by your cruise operator and avoid using chemical attractants or unfamiliar bait that could disrupt the local ecosystem. Only keep what you’ll eat that evening, and encourage the crew to return any non-target catches to the water. Avoid shining bright lights directly into the water for extended periods beyond what’s needed for fishing, as it can disorient marine life unnecessarily.
Our team at Halong Junk Cruise works with cruise operators who take the health of the bay seriously. Choosing a responsible operator isn’t just better for the environment; it also tends to mean a better-run, more enjoyable experience overall.
How to Join a Squid Fishing Experience in Halong Bay
Squid fishing is exclusively available on overnight cruises of two days or more. Day trips, no matter how well-organised, simply don’t include it since the activity runs from around 8 PM onward when the bay is calm and conditions are right.
When picking your Halong Bay overnight cruise, check that squid fishing is listed in the evening itinerary rather than just mentioned as an optional extra. The best cruises have dedicated crew members who guide the activity and prepare your catch on board.
In terms of budget, overnight cruises that include squid fishing typically range from around USD 80 to 150 per person for deluxe options, and USD 200 and above for luxury vessels. Private charters offer the most flexibility if you’d prefer a customized itinerary built around your group’s preferences.
Ready to book your squid fishing cruise? Browse our handpicked selection at halongjunkcruise.com/cruise or reach out directly to our team at [email protected], and we’ll match you with the right vessel for your travel dates and budget.
Suggested Cruises for Squid Fishing in Halong Bay
Not every cruise handles squid fishing equally well. The following boats consistently deliver a great experience, with knowledgeable crew, quality gear, and fresh catch cooked on board.
Bhaya Classic Cruise
A solid choice for families and couples alike, Bhaya Classic runs 2-day and 3-day packages with squid fishing built into the evening program. The crew knows the most productive spots in the bay, and the kitchen does a wonderful job turning your catch into a late-night snack.
Paradise Elegance Cruise
For those wanting a more upscale experience, Paradise Elegance takes guests to quieter corners of the bay where squid are more abundant, and the atmosphere is noticeably more peaceful. The spacious sun deck is perfect for an evening of fishing under the stars, and the two-night itinerary gives you two separate chances to cast your line.
Indochine Cruise Lan Ha
This one stands out for its authentic feel. Several crew members come from local fishing families and bring real knowledge and stories to the experience. The wooden boat design fits the tradition of squid fishing perfectly, and the chef prepares your catch in multiple styles so you get a proper taste of local cuisine.
Dragon Legend Cruise
For a less-touristy take on Halong Bay, Dragon Legend heads into Bai Tu Long Bay, where the water is cleaner, and boat traffic is minimal. Their 3-day itinerary offers multiple squid fishing sessions, often combined with a cooking demonstration so you learn exactly how to prepare your catch.
Want a private cruise tailored specifically to squid fishing? Contact our team at [email protected], and we’ll put together a custom itinerary that fits your group perfectly.
Health and Safety on the Water at Night
Squid fishing is a relaxed activity, but a few precautions keep the evening enjoyable for everyone on board.
- Always wear the life jacket provided by the crew, no exceptions
- Keep a safe distance from the boat’s edge, especially when reeling in a catch
- Wear non-slip footwear since wet decks can be surprisingly slippery
- Be mindful of others when casting your line, especially in a group
- Moderate alcohol consumption while fishing, as balance matters on a moving vessel
- Keep children close and supervised at all times during the activity
- Let the crew know immediately if you feel seasick or unwell
The crew on reputable cruises is trained to manage the activity safely, so follow their guidance, and you’ll have nothing to worry about.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is squid fishing season in Halong Bay? The main season runs from October to February, with November and December being the most productive months for the 2026/2027 season.
What is the best month to catch squid? December tends to be the peak month, combining cooler water temperatures with lower humidity and excellent visibility on moonless nights.
What is the best depth for squid fishing in Halong Bay? Squid in Halong Bay are typically found between 10 and 20 meters deep, though the lure is usually suspended at around 3 to 5 meters below the surface to stay within the light’s reach.
Where are the best spots for squid fishing? Sheltered areas near the limestone karsts, particularly around Cong Do and the waters near local fishing villages, tend to produce the best results.
Can children join squid fishing? Yes, children are welcome with adult supervision. The activity is gentle enough for kids, and most crews are happy to help them with the rod.
Is fishing equipment provided on board? Yes, all rods, lines, and lures are provided by the cruise. You’re welcome to bring your own bait if you have a preferred brand.
Can I keep the squid I catch? Absolutely. Your catch goes straight to the ship’s kitchen, where the chef prepares it fresh for you to enjoy the same evening.
