Bass fishing in the Philippines

[Cbear]

Who knows anything about the bass fishing there? I know there are a few lakes in Luzon with huge populations of bass and the resort I couldn't get into on my trip caters to bass fisherman. It was booked solid for the 2 weeks I was there. And march is not a good month to bass fish cause it's to hot already.

I was just wondering if anyone has any knowledge about freshwater fishing there.

[Bear]

I had asked Honey to locate a fishing place when I was coming there to marry but she said fishing was not common except commercially.  I guess she really didn't know.

The Bear Family

[Jeff S]

My only question would be that in a land of between 10,000 and 14,000 islands (depending on whether it's high or low tide) in the middle of the South Pacific, why would anyone care about fishing in fresh water and catching fish that are no good to eat?

[Cbear]

Because bass fishing is a multi billion dollar sport and there is money to be made.

I have been doing some research and the market is untapped, but what resources are there as far as tourism goes for this are stretched thin already.

Bass fishing is huge in Japan and some other Asian countries like Korea and even Thailand and China. They all have thriving bas fishing organizations.

But those places lack something the Philippines has, Florida strain largemouth and perfect conditions to grow then very big. Fisherman from those asian countries along with well heeled American anglers will travel long distances to fish for huge bass in big numbers.

A one week trip to Florida for a guided fishing trip is about 300 USD per day not counting the hotel, so add another 100 per day for that + guide tip of 50 per day plus lets say they drove from up north so add another 200 in fuel and snacks. For  total of 2900 USD for 6 days of fishing.

Now how about PI. 1200 for the flight, 200 per day for the guide and room and food. WOW, its cheaper to fish in the PI for bigger fish and more of them, just 2400 USD and that extra 500 bucks can go really far in PI for those who want to have other things to do.

Anyone else see this as an opportunity. I live in Florida and see just how much is spent on chasing this fish. These guys would love to have bragging rights.

Guys are already importing big American bass boats. I own 2 bass boats all ready (yes I'm a bit of a red neck) so the wheels are turning in my head.

[Jeff S]

I know. My nephew is gaga over bass in Japan. I just don't get it, myself. I just sent you a PM.

[Cbear]

Bass fishing is fun, I can't really describe it. Part of it is the very fast boats we use, my Bullet tops 100mph. Most rigs run mid 70s at least now.

Another is the tech aspect, we use gps, sonar and now side imaging sonar. The tackle is fun in itself, we just love buying new lures, many of which will never get wet.

High tech rods and reels. I guess part of it is just a big boys show and tell, LOL even the bass are objects for bragging rites.

[piglett]

Bass fishing is fun, I can't really describe it. Part of it is the very fast boats we use, my Bullet tops 100mph. Most rigs run mid 70s at least now.

Another is the tech aspect, we use gps, sonar and now side imaging sonar. The tackle is fun in itself, we just love buying new lures, many of which will never get wet.

High tech rods and reels. I guess part of it is just a big boys show and tell, LOL even the bass are objects for bragging rites.

Cbear I'm not much into fishing but i did go with my uncle a few years back off the coast of Maine & we caught quite a few bluefish. man did those fish ever put up a fight. So if bass are fighters i can see how someone could enjoy going out & getting em. I know we do have bass up here in lake winnipesaukee, but i don't what size their mouth is.

[Jeff S]

Cbear - you'd really get a charge out of Japanese tackle shops. They're really impressive, and have a blend of modern and traditional tackle. Just seeing the peacock feather quill floats alone make the visit worthwhile.

Piglett, ocean fish like those bluefish you were catching have a LOT more fight in them than freshwater bass. As I'm sure you found out, if you just winched in a ten pounder and grabbed it by the lip like bass fishermen do, you'd probably lose your thumb.

[jm21-2]

Whenever I check out the craigslist boat ads, I'm amazed at how much those little fishing boats cost. There msut be some sort of money there.

Wouldn't they have to pay a charter fee for the boats if they fished in the PI? As compared to trailering the boat down to Florida?

EDIT:

I looked into how much it would cost to charter a boat in Qingdao and the rates were jaw-droppingly expensive. More than in the US. From what I remember, I found that for about the price of chartering a speedboat there I could charter a large sailboat here with a personal captain/chef.

Oh, and they offered a one year course in pleasure sailing.

EDIT2:
Was just looking up that charter place for a laugh and found Yinhai Marina's moorage fee of almost $1,800/month for a 30' slip, About $57k + $1,800/year to be in the yacht club. HOLY CRAP.

I wonder if I should strap on my deck shoes, get the polo and khakis, and give yachtie lessons over there. I wonder if there was some error in their translation or their prices are really that ridiculous.