If there is one fishing experience that is uniquely Southeast Asian, it is the Kelong.
A kelong is an offshore wooden platform built above the sea, originally used by traditional fishermen to trap fish. Today, many kelongs in Malaysia have been converted into recreational fishing platforms complete with bunk beds, kitchens, and floodlights.
For anglers, a weekend on a kelong means 24-hour fishing access, cold drinks, and the camaraderie of sleeping right on top of the fishing grounds. This guide covers what to expect, what to pack, and where to go.
Table of Contents
- 1. What to Expect on a Kelong
- 2. Target Species
- 3. Essential Kelong Gear
- 4. Top Kelongs in Malaysia
- 5. Pro Tips for First-Timers
- Conclusion
1. What to Expect on a Kelong
Kelongs are rustic. If you are expecting a 5-star hotel, you are in the wrong place. But if you want an authentic, immersive fishing trip, there is nothing better.
- Accommodation: Usually dormitory-style bunk beds with mattresses. Some modern kelongs offer private rooms with air-conditioning.
- Facilities: Basic toilets and showers (often pumping sea water for flushing and fresh water for bathing).
- Food: Most kelong packages include 4 to 5 meals a day. Expect fresh seafood, fried rice, and hearty local dishes.
- The Fishing: You literally walk out of your room and drop a line into the water. Kelongs are rigged with massive floodlights that shine into the sea at night, attracting baitfish, which in turn attract predators and squid.
2. Target Species
The beauty of a kelong is the variety. You can catch:
- Bottom Dwellers: Grouper (Kerapu), Snapper (Merah), and Catfish.
- Pelagics: Queenfish (Talang), Spanish Mackerel (Tenggiri), and Trevally.
- Squid (Sotong): Kelongs are arguably the best places in Malaysia for night-time squid jigging (candat sotong) under the floodlights.
3. Essential Kelong Gear
You don't need heavy offshore gear for a kelong, but you do need versatility.
The Setup
A medium-heavy spinning setup is perfect. You will often be hauling fish straight up the side of the wooden platform, so you need a rod with some backbone.
- Rod: 7ft to 8ft Medium-Heavy spinning rod.
- Reel: 4000 to 5000 size spinning reel.
Tackle Checklist
- Apollo Rigs (Sabiki): Crucial for catching your own live bait (tamban) during the day.
- Squid Jigs (Candat): Bring a variety of colours (pink, orange, and glow-in-the-dark are favorites).
- Heavy Sinkers: The tidal currents around kelongs can be fiercely strong. Bring size 8 to 12 sinkers.
- Wire Leaders: For when the Tenggiri (Mackerel) show up.
4. Top Kelongs in Malaysia
Kelong Chia, Johor
Located off the coast of Pontian, Kelong Chia is legendary. It is well-maintained and situated in a prime spot for both bottom fishing and squid.
Kelong Pozi, Selangor
Located near Pulau Ketam, this is a highly accessible option for KL and Selangor residents. Great for weekend getaways and consistent bottom fishing.
Sibu Island Kelongs, Johor
The waters around Pulau Sibu are clearer and offer excellent chances for pelagic species like Trevally and Queenfish. The kelongs here are often slightly more upscale.
5. Pro Tips for First-Timers
- Catch Live Bait First: The most successful kelong anglers spend their first hour catching small baitfish (tamban) with an Apollo rig. Live bait catches the big fish at night.
- Bring a Headlamp: While the kelong has floodlights, the deck can still be dark. A headlamp is essential for tying knots at 2 AM.
- Respect the Current: Pay attention to the tide. When the current is ripping, use heavier sinkers or switch to squid jigging in the sheltered areas of the kelong.
Conclusion
A kelong trip is a rite of passage for Malaysian anglers. It's cheap, incredibly fun, and offers non-stop fishing action.
Make sure you have the right Fishing Clothing to survive the daytime heat, and gear up with the Best Reels before you book your trip!