Thrill of kelong fishing: The traditional platform is a one-of-a-kind experience

The structure of a kelong allows anglers to fish anywhere around the man-made platform.

Tucked along Malaysia’s coastal waters, the kelong – a traditional wooden platform built on stilts – offers anglers a one-of-a-kind fishing experience.

The unique man-made structure, suspended above the water, was originally used by fishermen to trap fish but have since become popular fishing spots for modern anglers.

Situated in strategic areas where currents naturally attract marine life, the kelong provide an accessible and serene environment for fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the thrill of the catch.

The kelong has been a part of the region’s fishing culture for centuries and today, many of its iterations have been transformed into fishing resorts, allowing anglers to fish directly from the platform without needing to venture offshore.

At first glance, a kelong might seem rudimentary – a simple wooden platform in the middle of the sea – but it serves as a magnet for fish.

The platform is typically located where strong tidal currents meet, bringing nutrient-rich waters that attract various fish species.

The marine life around kelong thrives due to the algae and small organisms that cling to the structure, making it an ideal fishing spot.

Fishing at a kelong is straightforward yet rewarding.

Even if you’re a beginner, using the right techniques can help you land an impressive catch.

Common techniques include bottom fishing, float fishing, using multi-hook rigs like Apollo rigs, casting and light jigging.

Bottom fishing is the most effective technique for targeting species such as groupers (kerapu), snappers (jenahak) and other bottom feeders.

With its basic, accessible means, even beginners can land a sizeable catch when fishing on kelong.

This method involves adding a sinker to the line to ensure the bait reaches the seafloor quickly, even in strong currents.

Live prawns, squid, and cut fish are typically used as bait.

Float fishing targets surface species like barracuda, queenfish or Spanish mackerel.

This method involves suspending the bait just below the surface using a float, which mimics the movement of prey to attract larger predatory fish.

Float fishing is known for its versatility and effectiveness with surface-dwelling species.

Anglers can use multi-hook rigs (such as multiple jig rigs) for smaller baitfish like sardines, Indian mackerel (kembong) and yellowtail scad (selar).

These rigs, with their multiple small hooks, are then jigged up and down to attract baitfish.

While these smaller fish are a catch in themselves, they also make excellent live bait for larger species.

Light jigging or casting is perfect for fast swimmers like trevally and cobia.

This technique mimics the erratic movement of wounded fish, which entices predatory species.

Light jigging and casting are versatile methods that can target both pelagic (surface-dwelling) and demersal (bottom-dwelling) species.

The diversity of fish found around the kelong makes it a fishing paradise.

The structure of a kelong allows anglers to fish anywhere around the man-made platform.

Fish are most active during tidal shifts as the changing water movement brings nutrients and smaller prey, which in turn attract larger predators.

The hours around high and low tide are considered peak fishing times, so planning your sessions around these periods is key.

The best time for kelong fishing is during the inter-monsoon periods (April-May and October-November) when the seas are calmer.

However, some anglers prefer fishing during the south-west monsoon (June-September) when larger pelagic species such as trevally and mackerel are more prevalent.

Fishing on a kelong at night can also be highly productive.

Lights from the kelong attract baitfish, which lure larger fish like groupers and snappers.

Bottom fishing at night often results in more frequent bites, making it a great time for anglers seeking bigger catches.

So, pack your gear, plan your visit around the tides and get ready for an exceptional kelong fishing experience in Malaysia.