If speed thrills you, Wahoo are the fish of your dreams. These torpedo-shaped predators are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of hitting 100 km/h in short bursts. The deep waters of the Lombok Strait offer some of Indonesia's best Wahoo fishing, with fish averaging 15-30kg and specimens over 50kg caught every season.
What Makes Wahoo Special
Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri) are the speed demons of the ocean. Also known as "Ono" in Hawaii, these fish are:
- 🚀 Blazing fast — one of the fastest fish in the sea
- 🔪 Razor-sharp teeth — require wire leaders
- 🍽️ Incredible eating — white, firm flesh prized worldwide
- 💨 Aggressive strikers — hit lures at full speed
Average size: 15-30kg (30-65lbs)
Trophy size: 40kg+ (88lbs+)
World record: 83kg (183lbs)
Why Lombok Strait is Wahoo Paradise
The Lombok Strait is a deep ocean channel between Bali and Lombok, reaching depths of over 1,300 meters. This creates perfect Wahoo habitat:
- Cold, nutrient-rich upwellings
- Abundant baitfish (skipjack, scad, flying fish)
- Strong currents that concentrate prey
- Deep water close to shore
Wahoo patrol the edges of these currents, ambushing baitfish at incredible speeds.
Best Wahoo Fishing Spots
🎯 Lombok Strait (Main Area)
The deep channel between Bali and Lombok is the primary target. Fish the edges where deep water meets the shelf.
Access: 2-3 hours from Padang Bai or Candidasa
Depth: 100-500m along the edges
Best for: Dedicated Wahoo trips
🎯 Southwest Lombok
The waters off Senggigi and Sekotong produce excellent Wahoo, especially near underwater seamounts.
Access: Charter from Lombok direct
Best for: Staying in Lombok
🎯 East Bali Drop-off
The shelf drops steeply off Candidasa and Amed, bringing Wahoo closer to shore.
Access: 1-2 hours from Candidasa
Best for: Combining with other species
Best Time for Wahoo
| Month | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January - March | ⭐⭐⭐ | Wet season, fish present but variable |
| April - June | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | PEAK — cooler currents, aggressive fish |
| July - September | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Excellent, consistent action |
| October - December | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Good fishing, warming waters |
Peak season: April through September
How to Catch Wahoo
High-Speed Trolling
Wahoo love fast-moving lures. While most trolling is done at 6-8 knots, Wahoo specialists troll at 12-18 knots!
Lures: Long, slender trolling lures, jet heads, Rapala X-Raps
Speed: 12-18 knots for dedicated Wahoo fishing
Wire: Essential — Wahoo teeth will cut mono/fluoro
Live Baiting
Slow-trolling or drifting live bait near drop-offs and FADs. Wahoo will cruise up from the depths to strike.
Bait: Live skipjack, scad, or small tuna
Rigging: Wire leader is mandatory
Tackle Requirements
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rod | 30-50lb trolling rod |
| Reel | Lever drag, 30-50 class |
| Line | 50-80lb mono or 65lb braid |
| Leader | Wire leader ESSENTIAL (Wahoo teeth!) |
| Lures | High-speed trolling lures, jet heads |
All tackle provided on Sailtix fishing charters.
Charter Prices
| Charter Type | Price (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Wahoo Trip | $150-220/person | Full day |
| Private Charter | $500-700 total | Full day |
| Premium Sportfisher | $900-1,200 | Full day |
Note: Wahoo trips are typically full-day due to travel to Lombok Strait.
Eating Your Catch
Wahoo is considered one of the finest eating fish in the world. The flesh is white, firm, and mild — perfect for:
- Sashimi (exceptional quality)
- Grilling or blackening
- Fish tacos
- Ceviche
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wahoo fishing beginner-friendly?
Yes and no. The trolling technique is simple, but fighting a Wahoo is intense — they make blistering runs. Our crew will help you every step of the way.
Why do I need wire leader?
Wahoo have razor-sharp teeth that can cut through thick mono and fluorocarbon in a split second. Wire leader is mandatory for landing these fish.
Can I combine Wahoo with other fishing?
Absolutely! Most Lombok Strait trips target Wahoo, Tuna, and Mahi-Mahi on the same day. You never know what'll strike next.
Ready for Speed?
Experience the thrill of Wahoo fishing in the Lombok Strait. Book a charter with experienced captains who know where these speedsters hunt.
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