Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi: Asia's Premier Angling Escape
Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi Thailand is a luxury freshwater fishing resort near Ao Nang, home to record-breaking Siamese carp and 51 species across two private lakes. With expert guides, lakeside villas, and nearly 20 years of experience, it stands among the best fishing destinations in Asia for anglers of every skill level — from total beginners to seasoned specimen hunters.
Picture a lake so still it mirrors the limestone karsts towering above it, broken only by the ripple of a 150lb Siamese carp surfacing for air. That's an ordinary morning at Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi, Thailand — a destination where serious angling meets genuine luxury, tucked into one of the country's most dramatic landscapes.
Gillhams Fishing Resort Overview Guide
In 2027, Gillhams will mark 20 years since its first fish was stocked in April 2007, celebrating nearly two decades of expertise in crafting unforgettable angling holidays. Worth noting from the outset: this is a freshwater lake fishery, not a sea fishing operation. That distinction works firmly in the resort's favour. Rather than battling tides, swells, or unpredictable ocean conditions, anglers here fish calm, controlled waters stocked with some of the biggest freshwater species on the planet.
This guide covers everything you need for planning your trip: world-class fishing, luxury accommodation, expert guidance, on-site dining, activities beyond the lake, seasonal advice, and booking details. Whether you're chasing a personal-best catch or planning a family holiday with fishing on the agenda, here's what makes Gillhams worth the journey.
Gillhams at a glance:
Freshwater lake fishery — serene, controlled conditions on the Main Lake (bait fishing) and Small Lake (fly and lure fishing), set against Krabi's dramatic limestone karst mountains
Record-breaking fish stocks — claimed to hold the world's biggest stock of Siamese carp, with a resort record of 275lb and six specimens over 200lb
51 species available, including arapaima, Mekong catfish, alligator gar, peacock bass, and Asian and Amazon stingrays
Expert guides on hand daily from 06:30 to 20:00, building personalised swim lists and safely handling every species
Luxury accommodation for all group sizes — Lakeside Bungalows, a Private 3-Bedroom Pool Villa with infinity pool, the new-for-2026 Hill Villa, and Stuart's House (sleeps up to eight)
Breakfast included with on-site Thai and Western dining, plus lakeside food and drink delivery throughout the day
Family and beginner friendly — rod-sharing arrangements available, with guides experienced in tailoring sessions to all skill levels
Free airport transfers from Krabi Airport, with Kenwood Travel recommended for flights
Minimum two-night stay (five nights for the Private Pool Villa); at least 75% of your stay must include pre-booked fishing days
Open year-round, with peak fishing conditions from May to mid-December
2027 marks the resort's 20th anniversary — a milestone competition package running August 2026 to January 2027 includes accommodation, guided fishing, tackle, and return flights
Where Is Gillhams Fishing Resort Located in Krabi?
Gillhams sits in the Tambon Ao Nang area of Krabi, roughly a mile from the ocean and enclosed on three sides by sheer limestone karst mountains. It's a setting that feels worlds away from the boats and beach bars of Krabi's coastline, yet close enough to reach in minutes.
The resort offers free transfers from Krabi Airport and recommends travel partner Kenwood Travel for booking flights — a convenient starting point for international visitors arranging their trip from abroad.
Krabi itself offers a more relaxed, family-friendly alternative to busier Thai resort towns, without the go-go bar scene found elsewhere. For travellers drawn to cultural immersion and a slower pace, this makes Gillhams' Luxury Fishing Vacations feel as much about the destination as the fishing itself — a chance to explore authentic Thai hospitality alongside world-class angling.
What Makes Gillhams a Freshwater Fishing Paradise?
Gillhams specialises exclusively in freshwater lake fishing, split across two distinct waters: the Main Lake, dedicated to bait fishing, and the Small Lake, reserved for fly and lure fishing. Neither offers sea or deep-sea fishing — this is a purpose-built freshwater fishery, and that focus is precisely what allows the resort to deliver such consistent, high-quality results.
Gillhams Monster Fish Species Guide
Here is a breakdown of the key fish species and their approximate sizes found at Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi:
Major Specimen Species (Weight & Size Ranges)
Species
Typical Weight Range
Average Weight
Top Recorded Sizes at Gillhams
Arapaima (Arapaima gigas)
100 lb – 560 lb
~180 lb
Specimens recorded over 500 lb – 560 lb+
Siamese Carp
40 lb – 134 lb
~60 lb – 135 lb
Multiple specimens over 200 lb up to 275 lb
Mekong Catfish
40 lb – 260 lb
~80 lb
Catches exceeding 300 lb+
Chao Phraya Catfish
30 lb – 140 lb
~65 lb
Up to 160 lb+
Amazon Redtail Catfish
30 lb – 140 lb
~30 lb
Reaching or approaching 100 lb
Asian Redtail Catfish
20 lb – 130 lb
~40 lb
—
Julian's Golden Carp
15 lb – 50 lb
~20 lb
—
Wallago Leeri
100 lb – 150 lb+
> 100 lb
Up to 150 lb+
Other Target Species Present
Gillhams holds over 50 species across its two lakes. Additional target species noted in the sources include:
Alligator Gar
Giant Snakehead
Barramundi
Pacu / Tambaqui
Peacock Bass
Giant Gourami
Chinese Black Carp
Bighead Carp
Ripsaw Catfish
Asian & Amazon Stingrays
According to Gillhams Fishing Resort (2026), the resort holds the biggest stock of Siamese carp anywhere in the world, including six specimens over 200lb and a record catch of 275lb. The average Siamese carp here weighs around 135lb — and, remarkably, the resort notes these fish are still only a third of the way into their natural lifespan. On a typical visit, roughly one in four Siamese carp landed exceeds 100lb, a statistic that speaks for itself when it comes to supporting Gillhams' positioning as a Best Fishing Destination Asia has to offer.
Beyond Siamese carp, anglers can target 51 species in total, including arapaima, alligator gar, Mekong catfish, giant gourami, peacock bass, and both Asian and Amazon stingrays. It's a species list that few freshwater fisheries anywhere can rival.
For honest expectation-setting: an average day at Gillhams yields 3–5 fish, while a good day can bring 8 or more. These numbers reflect a fishery built for quality over sheer volume — anglers come for the chance at a genuine specimen, not just a high fish count.
Emerging Frontend Paradigms: Strategies and Innovations Shaping Tomorrow's Web
Where to go in Thailand
Writer
October 16, 2026• 3 Comments
What Accommodation Options Are Available at Gillhams?
Luxury runs through every corner of the Gillhams experience, starting the moment you check into your room. The resort offers several accommodation styles to suit different travel parties:
Lakeside Bungalows – positioned for easy access to prime fishing spots, ideal for anglers who want to step straight from their doorstep to the water's edge.
Private 3-Bedroom Pool Villa – featuring its own infinity pool, available with a minimum five-night stay, perfect for groups or multi-generational families.
Hill Villa – new for 2026, offering a private infinity pool and elevated views across the resort.
Stuart's House – a designer show house beside the Main Lake, sleeping up to eight guests.
Thoughtful touches elevate the stay further: a lakeside food and drink delivery service means you never have to leave your swim to refuel, an on-site tackle shop covers any last-minute gear needs, and buggy lifts are available for guests with mobility requirements. Imagine morning mist lifting off the lake as a cold drink arrives at your swim, then returning to a private pool villa after a day chasing record fish — this is what Luxury Fishing Vacations at Gillhams genuinely look like in practice.
What Accommodation Options Are Available at Gillhams?
Luxury runs through every corner of the Gillhams experience, starting the moment you check into your room. The resort offers several accommodation styles to suit different travel parties:
Lakeside Bungalows – positioned for easy access to prime fishing spots, ideal for anglers who want to step straight from their doorstep to the water's edge
Private 3-Bedroom Pool Villa – featuring its own infinity pool, available with a minimum five-night stay, perfect for groups or multi-generational families
Hill Villa – new for 2026, offering a private infinity pool and elevated views across the resort
Stuart's House – a designer show house beside the Main Lake, sleeping up to eight guests
Thoughtful touches elevate the stay further: a lakeside food and drink delivery service means you never have to leave your swim to refuel, an on-site tackle shop covers any last-minute gear needs, and buggy lifts are available for guests with mobility requirements. Picture morning mist lifting off the lake as a cold drink arrives at your swim, then returning to a private pool villa after a day chasing record fish — this is what Luxury Fishing Vacations at Gillhams genuinely look like in practice.
Are the Guides and Equipment Suitable for Both Beginners and Experts?
Gillhams' guide team is on duty from 06:30 to 20:00 daily, trained to safely handle everything from arapaima to stingrays using specialist equipment like Boga Grips. Each day, guides build a tailored "swim list" based on individual guest preferences and target species — a personalised touch that turns a generic fishing trip into a genuinely curated experience.
All tackle is supplied as standard, though anglers who prefer their own gear can request equipment specifications in advance. Free bait is provided up to 5kg per day, with additional bait available if needed.
Families are well catered for too, with rod-sharing arrangements available for parents fishing alongside children — making this a genuine multi-generational holiday option rather than a trip suited only to serious solo anglers.
What Can You Expect From Dining at Gillhams?
After a day on the water, Gillhams' on-site restaurant and lakeside meal delivery service bring what the resort calls "Gourmet Fishing Cuisine" — a blend of Thai and Western dishes, with breakfast included in every stay. Think fragrant Thai curries and vibrant salads served lakeside between casts, or a hearty Western breakfast to fuel an early start. It's a dining experience designed to keep you fuelled and close to the action, without fishing ever taking priority over comfort.
What Else Is There to Do Near Gillhams Besides Fishing?
Fishing may be the headline act, but Gillhams' in-house team organises day trips tailored to guests wanting to explore further afield. Options include island excursions — which may include snorkelling opportunities, worth confirming directly with the resort — and ATV adventures to striking, jungle-clad locations reminiscent of a prehistoric film set.
For non-fishing companions or families travelling together, this variety matters. Krabi offers everything from sightseeing and cultural exploration to adrenaline-fuelled adventure and pure relaxation, ensuring everyone in your group finds something to love, whether or not they pick up a rod.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Fish in Krabi?
Fishing at Gillhams is possible year-round, but conditions vary noticeably by season. The period from May to mid-December offers the best overall fishing, thanks to cooler temperatures and longer feeding windows for the fish. January to April tends to suit sunbathing more than serious angling, with mid-February through March being particularly hot — anglers visiting during this window are advised to fish early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.
October brings heavier rain, mostly overnight, while the rest of the year sees a comfortable range of 21–35°C. In short: fishing at Gillhams is consistent all year, with peak conditions running from May through December — useful to know whether you're planning a Krabi angling holiday around the dry season or chasing specific target species at their most active.
What Packages Are Available, and What Do They Cost?
Gillhams doesn't offer all-inclusive packages, but it does provide a range of accommodation and fishing options to suit different budgets, group sizes, and stay lengths. The table below gives an indicative starting point — always confirm exact rates directly with the resort at the time of booking, as pricing varies by season and availability.
Package / Option
Tier
Duration
Inclusions
Indicative Price
Lakeside Bungalow (Fishing)
Standard
Min. 2 nights
Accommodation, guided fishing (06:30–20:00), bait (up to 5kg/day), lakeside food & drink service
From ~£150–£200 per night
Lakeside Bungalow (Non-Fishing Guest)
Standard
Min. 2 nights
Accommodation only; resort facilities access; non-fishing activities available
From ~£80–£120 per night
Private 3-Bedroom Pool Villa
Premium
Min. 5 nights
Accommodation (sleeps up to 6), private infinity pool, guided fishing option, lakeside food & drink service
From ~£400–£600 per night
Hill Villa (New for 2026)
Premium
Min. 2 nights
Elevated hilltop accommodation; full resort facilities; fishing access; contact resort for full inclusions
POA
Stuart's House
Group / Family
Min. 2 nights
Accommodation (sleeps up to 8), shared resort facilities, fishing access; ideal for groups and families
Accommodation, guided fishing, bait, all tackle & equipment, return flights included
Competition entry — see resort for details
Choose a Lakeside Bungalow if you want fishing access right from your doorstep on a shorter stay; opt for the Private Pool Villa if you're travelling with a larger group and want extra privacy and space; and keep an eye on the 20th Anniversary Competition if you'd like a shot at winning the trip outright rather than booking it.
Gillhams Resort Package Guide
Figures above are illustrative estimates based on comparable freshwater fishing resorts in Southeast Asia and should be replaced with confirmed rates supplied directly by Gillhams before you book. Contact the resort at gillhamsfishingresorts@gmail.com or +66 86 164 4554 for accurate, up-to-date pricing.
How Do I Book a Stay at Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi?
Bookings require a minimum two-night stay, extending to five nights for the Private 3-Bedroom Pool Villa. Check-in begins at 14:00, and at least 75% of your stay must include pre-booked fishing days. The Christmas period (24 December to 1 January) carries a minimum eight-night package requirement.
Worth noting: Gillhams does not offer all-inclusive packages, and only one paying angler is required per bungalow, with non-fishing companions welcome to join at no extra angling cost — a useful detail for couples or families where not everyone fishes.
To mark the resort's 20th anniversary, Gillhams is running a competition from August 2026 through 1 January 2027, with the winner announced in the first week of 2027. The prize includes a week of fishing, accommodation, breakfast, bait, equipment, and return flights to Krabi, with the trip taking place between May and October 2027. Entry is free and open to everyone, with entrants required to like the main Facebook page and join the Gillhams Community Group.
As pricing varies by season and accommodation type, it's best to confirm current rates directly with the resort. For the latest guest experiences and reviews, TripAdvisor and the Gillhams Community Group on Facebook are good places to check before booking. For enquiries, reach the team at gillhamsfishingresorts@gmail.com or +66 86 164 4554.
Ready to Plan Your Krabi Angling Holiday?
Nearly two decades of expertise, record-breaking Siamese carp, 51 species across two private lakes, luxury villas framed by limestone karsts — Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi brings together everything that makes for a genuinely unforgettable fishing holiday. It's a rare combination of serious angling credentials and five-star comfort, set against one of Thailand's most striking natural backdrops.
If a trip here has been on your list, now is the moment to start planning. Prime dates fill fast, especially around the 20th-anniversary competition window (August 2026–January 2027) and the Christmas package (24 December–1 January). Contact the Gillhams team directly to check availability, confirm the latest packages, and lock in your preferred dates before they're gone — email gillhamsfishingresorts@gmail.com or call +66 86 164 4554.
And if Krabi has sparked your curiosity about the rest of Thailand, explore our other Thailand travel guides or subscribe for more destination inspiration — your next adventure awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fishing at Gillhams freshwater or saltwater?
Gillhams is a freshwater lake fishery, not a sea or deep-sea fishing destination. Fishing takes place across two private lakes: the Main Lake for bait fishing and the Small Lake for fly and lure fishing.
What is the best time of year to fish at Gillhams Resort Krabi?
Fishing is possible year-round, but May to mid-December offers the best conditions thanks to cooler temperatures and longer feeding windows. January to April is hotter and better suited to sunbathing, with early morning or late afternoon sessions recommended during the hottest months.
What types of fish can you catch at Gillhams Fishing Resort?
Gillhams is home to 51 species, including record-sized Siamese carp (the resort claims the biggest stock in the world), arapaima, alligator gar, Mekong catfish, giant gourami, peacock bass, and Asian and Amazon stingrays.
Is Gillhams Fishing Resort suitable for beginners?
Yes. Expert guides are on duty from 06:30 to 20:00, all tackle is supplied, and bait is provided free up to 5kg per day. Rod-sharing arrangements are also available, making it accessible for beginners and families fishing alongside more experienced anglers.
Does Gillhams offer all-inclusive packages?
No. Gillhams does not offer all-inclusive packages. Accommodation, fishing, and extras such as bait and equipment are arranged separately, though packages for seasonal periods and the 20th anniversary competition bundle more inclusions together.
Can non-fishing guests stay at Gillhams Fishing Resort?
Yes. Only one paying angler is required per bungalow, and non-fishing companions are welcome to stay and enjoy the resort's facilities and non-fishing activities without an additional angling fee.
What is the minimum stay at Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi?
The standard minimum stay is two nights, rising to five nights for the Private 3-Bedroom Pool Villa and eight nights for the Christmas and New Year period (24 December to 1 January).
Do I have to fish every day of my stay at Gillhams?
Not every single day, but at least 75% of your stay must include pre-booked fishing days as part of the resort's booking policy.
Does Gillhams offer airport transfers from Krabi Airport?
Yes. Gillhams provides free transfers from Krabi Airport, and recommends travel partner Kenwood Travel for arranging flights.
How do I book a stay at Gillhams Fishing Resort Krabi?
Bookings can be made directly through the resort via email at gillhamsfishingresorts@gmail.com or phone at +66 86 164 4554. Stays require a minimum of two nights (five for the Private 3-Bedroom Pool Villa), with at least 75% of the stay including pre-booked fishing days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Aquaria Phuket’s opening hours?
Aquaria Phuket is open daily from 10:30 to 19:00, with last admission at 18:00. It is a good idea to arrive well before the final entry time so you can enjoy the exhibits without rushing.
How much are tickets for Aquaria Phuket?
Current standard ticket prices are:
Adult: 1,251 THB
Child: 675 THB
Children under 90cm: Free
Prices can change, so it is worth checking before your visit.
Do I need to book Aquaria Phuket tickets in advance?
Yes, if you plan to buy online tickets, they must be purchased at least 3 hours in advance. Booking ahead is the easiest way to make your visit smoother and avoid queues.
How long should I spend at Aquaria Phuket?
Most visitors should allow around 1 hour and 45 minutes. This gives you enough time to explore the themed zones, take photos, and enjoy key shows or feeding sessions.
Where is Aquaria Phuket located?
Aquaria Phuket is located beneath Central Phuket Floresta in Phuket. Its central location makes it easy to combine with shopping, dining, or other nearby Phuket attractions.
Is Aquaria Phuket suitable for families?
Yes, Aquaria Phuket is very family-friendly. The attraction is easy to navigate, offers a mix of educational and entertaining exhibits, and includes crowd-pleasers such as otters, sharks, rays, and the Mermaid Show.
Do I need to book Aquaria Phuket tickets in advance?
Yes, if you plan to buy online tickets, they must be purchased at least 3 hours in advance. Booking ahead is the easiest way to make your visit smoother and avoid queues.
What is the Mermaid Show at Aquaria Phuket?
The Mermaid Show is one of the standout experiences at Aquaria Phuket. It features skilled underwater performers in custom silicone tails performing graceful routines inside the huge South China Sea tank. It is a magical highlight for both children and adults.
Is the Mermaid Show included with general admission?
The Mermaid Show is often one of the main visitor experiences, but availability can vary by schedule. It is best to check the day’s programme when you arrive or before your visit.
What is Dive with Sharks?
Dive with Sharks is a premium experience for thrill-seekers who want to come face-to-face with sharks in a controlled setting. It offers a rare chance to see these impressive animals up close in one of Aquaria Phuket’s most exciting encounters.
Do I need to book Dive with Sharks in advance?
It is strongly recommended. Spaces may be limited, and advance booking gives you the best chance of securing your preferred time.
What can I see at Aquaria Phuket?
Aquaria Phuket features a wide range of marine and freshwater life, along with reptiles and river animals. Popular highlights include:
Mystic Forest
Jewels of the Jungle
The River Caves
South China Sea
Small-clawed otters
Sharks and giant rays
What is the biggest highlight inside Aquaria Phuket?
For many visitors, the biggest highlight is the South China Sea zone. This enormous exhibit holds 3.5 million litres of seawater and is home to sharks, giant rays, and a huge variety of marine life.
Are there feeding shows at Aquaria Phuket?
Yes, Aquaria Phuket offers daily feeding programmes. These sessions are a great way to learn more about the animals, their diets, and how aquarists care for them.
Gallery
Necessitatibus eius consequatur ex aliquid fuga eum quidem sint consectetur velit
Reader Feedback (6)
Jon Gibbons
Etiam pretium, magna eget feugiat finibus, tellus massa pellentesque nisi, non malesuada nulla nunc vel ligula. Sed finibus enim eu nulla tempus, vitae tincidunt dolor semper. Praesent fringilla, metus at convallis sagittis.
Michael Carter
Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia curae; Donec vel erat in nulla efficitur tempor non ut nisl. Integer venenatis eros ut dui viverra fermentum.
Sophie Wilson
Nam ut turpis hendrerit, varius nunc vel, elementum dui. Morbi vulputate dolor sit amet scelerisque egestas. Vestibulum eleifend nunc ut bibendum fermentum.
Contact
Necessitatibus eius consequatur ex aliquid fuga eum quidem sint consectetur velit
.webp)
Reader Feedback (6)
Jon Gibbons
Etiam pretium, magna eget feugiat finibus, tellus massa pellentesque nisi, non malesuada nulla nunc vel ligula. Sed finibus enim eu nulla tempus, vitae tincidunt dolor semper. Praesent fringilla, metus at convallis sagittis.
Michael Carter
Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia curae; Donec vel erat in nulla efficitur tempor non ut nisl. Integer venenatis eros ut dui viverra fermentum.
Sophie Wilson
Nam ut turpis hendrerit, varius nunc vel, elementum dui. Morbi vulputate dolor sit amet scelerisque egestas. Vestibulum eleifend nunc ut bibendum fermentum.