Fishing in Cambodia
Including Kampot River Estuary, Koh Rong Archipelago, and Tonle Sap Lake. On the map.
The vibe
Fishing here is deeply tied to the rhythm of the local villages, offering a humble, hands-on experience that feels more like a cultural exchange than a sporting event. The dry season provides the most reliable conditions for heading out on the water with local captains who know the currents intimately. It is an informal, DIY-style trip where you simply negotiate a ride with a local boatman for a few hours on the waves.
Local fishing permit
Kampot River Estuary
Kampot
Reinhard Onasch / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The brackish waters of the Kampot River and its surrounding mangrove systems provide a unique environment for targeting species like mangrove jack and threadfin. It is a scenic and accessible spot for anglers preferring calm, protected waters.
Access. Travelers can hire local fishing boats or guides from the Kampot riverside promenade. Some guesthouses also offer small boat rentals or guided trips into the estuary.
Notes. Catch-and-release is encouraged to maintain the health of the local estuary ecosystem.
Koh Rong Archipelago
Khaet Preah Sihanouk
Kris Martyn / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The waters surrounding the Koh Rong islands offer productive inshore and reef fishing for species like grouper, snapper, and barracuda. It is a popular destination for travelers looking to combine island hopping with light-tackle boat fishing.
Access. Local boat charters and fishing excursions can be booked directly from the main piers on Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem. Many operators provide basic gear and local guides who know the productive reef edges.
Notes. No specific recreational fishing license is required for visitors, but be mindful of local marine conservation zones where fishing is strictly prohibited.
Tonle Sap Lake
Siem Reap
Bahnfrend / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
As the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap offers a unique opportunity to fish for giant freshwater species including catfish and snakehead. The seasonal flooding creates vast, productive habitats that are central to the region's angling identity.
Access. Visitors can access the lake via Siem Reap or Kompong Khleang. Local guides specializing in catch-and-release fishing can be booked through specialized tour operators in Siem Reap.
Notes. Fishing is strictly regulated; always use a licensed guide to ensure compliance with seasonal closures and protected breeding areas.