Amed, Bali: Mackerel Fishing with Fishermen & Local BBQ

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Bali that combines traditional livelihoods, breathtaking scenery, and delicious food, this mackerel fishing tour in Amed could be just the ticket. We’ve looked into the details, and what stands out is how this experience offers genuine immersion, scenic beauty, and a chance to learn from local fishermen.

Three things we love about this experience? The stunning views of Mount Rinjani and Mount Agung, the opportunity to pick up traditional fishing techniques, and the relaxed vibe of a beach BBQ with fresh catch.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour is relatively short—just three hours—so if you’re after a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit compact.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see real Balinese life beyond the temples, enjoy spectacular coastal vistas, and have fun capturing authentic moments on their phones. It’s particularly suited for those eager to connect with local culture in a laid-back setting.

Good To Know

Authentic local experience: Learn traditional fishing techniques directly from local fishermen.
Spectacular scenery: Get panoramic views of Mount Rinjani and Mount Agung—depending on your timing—either at sunrise or sunset.
Delicious meal: Enjoy a freshly cooked BBQ on Pantai Lipah Beach, featuring your own catch.
Flexible timing: Choose between an early morning or late afternoon trip for the best lighting and scenery.
Family-friendly: Suitable for most ages, excluding very young children or seniors with mobility issues.
Private group: The experience is designed for small, private groups, enhancing intimacy and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Amed Mackerel Fishing Tour

Balinese coastline isn’t just about stunning beaches and vibrant culture—it’s also a hub of traditional fishing practices that have been handed down through generations. This 3-hour fishing tour lets you step into the shoes of local fishermen, learning their age-old techniques on traditional boats.

What makes this experience special is the chance to learn authentic methods and see firsthand how small mackerel, a common fish in the area, is caught. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the breathtaking scenery—whether it’s the sunrise illuminating Mount Rinjani or the sunset casting a warm glow over Mount Agung.

While it’s a short tour, the combination of cultural insight, stunning views, and a beachside BBQ offers excellent value. It’s a perfect option for travelers wanting a relaxed, meaningful activity that balances adventure with comfort.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Amed Sailing Boat (Jukung) Trip and Snorkeling Service

Your day begins at the designated meeting point in Amed, where your guide will introduce you to the local fishermen you’ll be working with. The meeting here is straightforward—just confirm your booking a day in advance and arrive ready for a fun, authentic experience.

Mackerel Fishing Experience

The core of this tour is the fishing itself. You’ll hop onto a traditional jukung, the iconic Balinese fishing boat, which is small but sturdy. The guides are experienced local fishermen, and from their insights, you’ll learn authentic fishing techniques—a highlight for anyone interested in local livelihoods.

Reviews mention the relaxed pace and the chance to capture moments with your own phone, which makes it a great photo opportunity. The fishermen are friendly and eager to share their skills, making it feel less like a tour and more like a casual day on the water with new friends.

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Scenic Coastal Cruising

Following the fishing, there’s a boat cruise around Jemeluk Bay, lasting about 105 minutes. This is a lovely chance to enjoy the coastline, spot marine life if you’re snorkeling in another part of your day, and appreciate the stunning colors of Bali’s waters.

Beach BBQ at Lipah Beach

After fishing, everyone heads to Pantai Lipah Beach for the highlight—a fresh BBQ of the catch. The experience is relaxed, with plenty of time to unwind, chat, and take in the views. Many reviews mention that the fish is cooked fresh and tastes incredible, with some guests choosing to take their catch home afterward.

The setting is perfect: the gentle sound of waves, the warm Bali sun, and panoramic views of the ocean. This part of the tour often lasts about 90 minutes, giving enough time to savor every bite and snap photos of the scene.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up back at your starting point, leaving you with memorable photos, new skills, and a deeper appreciation for Bali’s fishing culture.

What to Expect: Practical Details & Tips

Timing options are flexible: opt for the 5:30 AM start to witness a sunrise with views of Mount Rinjani, or choose the 5:00 PM trip for sunset views with Mount Agung’s silhouette. Both timings offer different atmospheric experiences—morning calm or evening serenity.

Transportation from your accommodation isn’t included, but the meeting point is straightforward to find using the given coordinates. Be sure to confirm your booking a day ahead and arrive a little early to avoid missing the boat.

Clothing and gear: Bring a towel, and don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself and the environment. Dress comfortably and be ready to get a little wet or sandy—it’s part of the fun.

Group size: This is a private experience, so you’ll enjoy the trip with just your group and local guides, making it more personalized.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While this experience might seem simple—a fishing trip followed by a beach BBQ—the value lies in its authenticity and scenic beauty. It’s an affordable way to connect deeply with local culture, learn practical skills, and enjoy Bali’s coast from a different perspective.

The fact that you can learn authentic fishing techniques directly from local fishermen adds a lot to the experience, especially for those interested in sustainable, traditional practices. Plus, the scenic views at sunrise or sunset are genuinely breathtaking, easily making this a highlight of any trip to Amed.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic glimpse into Balinese life, particularly those interested in fishing or coastal scenery. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, meaningful activity without requiring strenuous effort.

It’s also highly suitable for photography enthusiasts who want to capture Bali’s natural beauty and cultural side. However, it’s not ideal for very young children, seniors over 70, or anyone with mobility issues, given the boat-based nature of the trip.

FAQs

Is this a full-day activity?
No, it’s a 3-hour trip, covering fishing, a boat cruise, and beach BBQ, making it a perfect half-day outing.

Can I choose between sunrise and sunset?
Yes, you can opt for an early morning trip at 5:30 AM or a late afternoon trip at 5:00 PM, depending on your preference for scenery and timing.

Do I need prior fishing experience?
Not at all. The guides will teach you authentic techniques, and it’s designed for beginners and experienced fishers alike.

Is transportation included?
Transportation isn’t specified, but the meeting point is clearly provided. Confirm with the provider to arrange transfers if needed.

Can I take my catch home?
Yes, many guests choose to take their freshly caught fish home or enjoy it during the BBQ on the beach.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for most age groups, but not recommended for babies under 1 year or seniors over 70, due to the boat trip and physical activity involved.

What should I bring?
A towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and your phone or camera for photos. Wear comfortable clothes suited for water activities.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This mackerel fishing tour in Amed offers a slice of everyday life in Bali with stunning backdrops and fresh food. It’s an experience that balances cultural insight with natural beauty, all wrapped into just a few hours.

Travelers eager for genuine engagement, photogenic scenery, and a taste of local traditions will find it particularly rewarding. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, but its charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity—truly a memorable way to spend part of your Bali holiday.

Whether you’re trying fishing for the first time, looking for peaceful moments at sunset, or wanting a fun story to tell, this tour combines all those elements effortlessly. Just arrive with an open mind and a camera ready, and you’ll walk away with more than just fish—memories that last.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby