11 Best Fishing Charters in the Cook Islands

Game Fishing Rarotonga is a long-established and trusted operator on Rarotonga, offering exciting fishing adventures for both serious anglers and casual fishers. With two well-equipped boats – the 13 m (14.2 yards) "Lady D" and the 6.7 m (7.3 yards) "Ruby" – they cater to various group sizes and preferences.

Their highly experienced crew provides top-notch gear and flexible charter options, including game fishing, sport fishing, private cruises, and whale watching.

Whether you're after marlin, tuna, mahimahi, or wahoo, the knowledgeable hosts will help you land that prized catch. With strong reviews from past guests, you can expect a professional and friendly experience on the water.

From half-day trips to full-day excursions, Game Fishing Rarotonga offers an unforgettable fishing adventure in the crystal-clear waters of the Cook Islands.

Spearfishing is also available if you have your own gear - check out The Complete Guide to Spearfishing in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands to learn more.

Location: Avatiu Harbour, Avarua, northern side of Rarotonga.

Join a local to experience Aitutaki’s famed bonefishing scene with E2’s Way.

Run by Itu and his twin brother, the team offer some of the most personal and hands-on fishing charters on Aitutaki, specialising in bonefish, giant trevally, spin and fly fishing across the lagoon's famous flats.

Operating year-round with no seasonal closures, you can book a "Half Day Charter" or a "Full Day Charter", with kids welcome at no extra charge.

All fishing gear, drinking water and transfers are included; pick-up is flexible depending on where you're staying. On full-day trips, the boat stops near One Foot Island for lunch (bring your own), or you can eat on board if the fish are biting.

It's all catch and release in the lagoon, and whether you're walking the flats for bonefish or casting for GT, Itu and his guides will spot, instruct and keep things moving. Note that guests need to arrange their own fishing licence beforehand, which you can learn more about in The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

Akura Fishing Charters is one of the most experienced fishing operations in the Cook Islands, run by the same local family for over 20 years. You'll love their range of options, from game fishing to bottom fishing, spearfishing, and even family-friendly trips. Their professional, safety-conscious crew knows these waters like the back of their hand.

Hop aboard their large, purpose-built boat with a shaded deck, perfect for a comfortable day out on the water. They provide all the high-end equipment you'll need, and you'll even have the chance to tag and release your catch.

Don't just take our word for it - Akura comes highly recommended by locals and return visitors alike. For more fishing adventures, check out the 10 Best Fishing Charters on Rarotonga.

Location: Avatiu Harbour, Rarotonga.

Silent One Lagoon Charters offers private lagoon fishing charters seven days a week, giving you the chance to cast a line for snapper and GT (giant trevally) inside the lagoon on a fully private boat, with no mixed groups, ever.

Departing at around 8 am, this family-run operation runs half-day and full-day charters with all fishing gear provided, so you can show up empty-handed and still look like you know what you're doing.

The catch-and-release format keeps things sustainable, and the team is genuinely flexible, willing to customise the experience around your group's preferences and pace.

For larger groups, a second boat can be arranged to accommodate up to 12–15 people, and the team can also organise airport-to-boat transfers and a taxi back to your accommodation after the tour. Guests with limited mobility are welcome too.

If you’re looking to catch some South Pacific whoppers in Aitutaki, then Black Pearl Charters should be a serious consideration. Although they offer half-day and full-day private charters for a more personalised experience, their half-day shared charters are definitely welcome for anglers on a budget.

Speaking of anglers, you don’t have to be experienced to enjoy a trip with Black Pearl Charters, who have a lot of success fishing around the FADs just outside of the Aitutaki Lagoon. Depending on the length of your tour and the time of day, transfers, breakfast/lunch, hot and cold drinks and snorkelling equipment are included.

Fish caught can usually be filleted for you to take back for dinner. Spearfishing is also an option with Black Pearl Charters, which you can learn more about in The Complete Guide to Spearfishing in the Cook Islands.

Location: From anywhere on Aitutaki; transfers are included.

Experience Atiu's amazing lagoon fishing scene with Andrew Matapakia and his family-run tours. This affordable fishing adventure offers a variety of experiences, including traditional-style fishing, octopus and crayfish hunting, night fishing, and general lagoon fishing with rods.

You'll love the excitement of catching your own dinner during this two-hour excursion, typically held in the afternoon when tide and conditions are favourable. Night fishing enthusiasts can opt for an after-dark adventure. The best part? You get to keep your catch!

With Andrew's local knowledge and expertise, you're in for a truly authentic Cook Islands fishing experience. It's a perfect activity for both seasoned anglers and novices alike. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories on the beautiful waters of Atiu.

If Andrew’s not around, the boys from Living Like an Atiuan Culture Tour can take you reef fishing, topping off the experience by grilling your catch.

Location: From anywhere on Atiu; transfers are included.

An alternative reef fishing experience in Rarotonga, Sammy's Bamboo Reef Fishing Adventures is a rare opportunity to fish the local way.

This small, family-run experience takes you out onto Rarotonga's reef to fish using traditional bamboo rods, guided by Sammy himself, a lifelong fisherman who has known these waters since he was a boy.

Sessions run for two to three hours, timed just before low tide, with all gear provided including bamboo rod, line, bait and a light lunch. If the reef conditions aren't playing ball, fishing shifts to the lagoon instead.

First-timers are more than welcome; Sammy teaches you everything on the spot, and beginners often walk away with the best catch - no pressure! You keep what you catch, and Sammy will scale and clean it for you, ready to cook whole in true Cook Islands fashion.

Groups are kept small at eight, private bookings cost nothing extra, and complimentary photos are sent to you after the session. For groups of six or more, there's the "Catch and Cook" add-on, where your fresh catch is cooked up right on the beach with side dishes and a cold beer, turning a two-to-three-hour session into a full six-hour day out.

All in all, Sammy's Bamboo Reef Fishing is one of Raro's rare slice-of-life experiences, which is well worth considering even if you're not into fishing.

Wahoo Fishing Charters offers a vibrant mix of fishing and fun on the waters of Rarotonga. This long-standing operation has carved out a niche for its lively atmosphere, featuring adventure fishing, party cruises, whale watching, and romantic sunset tours.

With music systems on board, a BYO drinks policy, and staff known for their great sense of humour, you're in for a memorable time regardless of your fishing experience.

Charters typically run for 4-5 hours and include drinks and snacks, with an option to upgrade to a full BBQ lunch on board. They're especially popular with groups seeking a social or celebratory atmosphere on the water.

Location: Avana Harbour, Ngatangiia, eastern side of Rarotonga. Some tours may depart from Avatiu Harbour, Avarua.

Extreme Fishing Charters offers an adrenaline-pumping experience for keen anglers in Rarotonga. Specialising in "game fishing" and unique "Giant Trevally night trips", this charter caters to those seeking an intense fishing adventure.

With both half-day and full-day options available, you'll target big fish on their purpose-built 9 m (9.8 yards) sports fishing boat. The experienced crew focuses on serious fishing, making it perfect for anglers after something more specialised.

The standout option is their night GT fishing trips, offering a thrilling chance to catch these powerful fish under unique conditions. Extreme Fishing Charters generally accommodates smaller groups and individual bookings, providing a straightforward, no-frills setup that lets the fishing take centre stage.

All fishing gear and bait are included, along with bottled water and light refreshments to keep you fuelled for the hunt.

Location: Avatiu Harbour, Rarotonga.

If fishing is your thing, Wet & Wild on Aitutaki is the operator to call.

Widely regarded as the kings of watersports on the island, they run serious fishing charters that cater to all styles, whether you're trolling around the FADs, jigging down to the depths for dogtooth tuna or heading out for a full deep-sea session.

For something a little more technical, try casting for giant trevally at the edge of the lagoon or test your skills at spearfishing (it's every bit as addictive as they say).

Simply tell the team what you're after and they'll put together the day for you. Transfers, drinking water, towels and all the gear are included.

Beyond fishing, Wet & Wild also runs half-day and full-day charters covering island hopping, wakeboarding, tube riding and snorkelling, plus kiteboarding and wing foiling lessons and rentals. From July to the end of October, whale watching tours are also available.

Join a local who was brought up on the water with Captain Moko's Fishing Charters. On Captain Moko's 7.5 m (8.2 yards) pontoon, you'll enjoy either a shared or private charter with all quality Shimano rods and reels, as well as all of the usual safety gear.

The charter is ideal for deep-sea fishing and bottom fishing, making it suitable for families. Add it to your list of the 40 Best Things to Do in the Cook Islands with Kids. Captain Moko's is also one of the very few Rarotonga charters departing from Muri Beach.

Location: Muri Beach, Rarotonga.