Bhutan Fishing Trip. Bhutan is home to 41 indigenous fish species in its rivers and lakes, along with eight exotic species, including the coldwater brown trout, introduced in 1930. Stocking of brown trout was halted in 1983 due to concerns about its impact on the Indigenous asla (Schizothorax progastus), which is valued by the Bhutanese. There is limited information on Asla’s distribution and its catch proportions. The potential competition between brown trout and asla needs thorough evaluation before any restocking efforts. Currently, Bhutan’s coldwater fishery is mainly subsistence-based, lacking a functioning coldwater hatchery or commercial fish farms. In 1990, fish production was estimated at 331 tons, partly from warmwater aquaculture, but has likely declined due to regional disturbances. New hydroelectric dams and reservoirs present opportunities for expanding fish production.
Bhutan Fishing Trip Information
Fishing permits are available year-round on a ‘catch and release’ basis, except during the breeding season in December, January, and February. The best fishing months are March, April, and May, when fish tend to be smaller, while September, October, and November are ideal for catching larger fish. Fishing in lakes is permitted year-round. Additionally, certain days in the Bhutanese calendar, including the 8th, 15th, and 30th, as well as specific days in the fifth, sixth, and ninth months, are closed for fishing due to religious practices. Since 2001, a meat ban has been in place to reduce animal slaughter during auspicious months.
Bhutan Fishing Trip Quick Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival at Paro Airport
Day 2 Thimphu Sightseeing
Day 3 Thimphu to Tsirang Via Dochula Pass to Sunkosh
Day 4 Tsirang to Royal Manas River for Fishing.
Day 5 Fishing at Royal Manas
Day 6 Fishing and Rafting at Manas River
Day 7 Manas to Punakha Drive
Day 8 Punakha to Paro
Day 9 Paro Tiger Nest Hike
Day 10 Paro see Off
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Fishing Trip Information
- Fishing is prohibited during the 1st and 4th Bhutanese months (Jan/Feb and May) as they are considered holy.
- No fishing is allowed within a kilometre of religious sites, bridges, and important government institutions.
- Fishing is banned on specific auspicious days: the 8th, 15th, 25th, 30th of every Bhutanese month, and the 4th day of the 6th month. Meat sales are also banned on Buddha's descending day.
- The fishing season is closed from October to December.
- The largest fish caught locally weighs about 10 lbs.
- Fishing is restricted to rod and reel, and fish under 8 inches must be released.
- Fishing in Bhutan is not commercialized but is part of a conservation plan.
