Looking for authentic fishing experiences in Phnom Penh? Two standout options deserve your attention. The traditional fishing village of Kampong Kleang on Tonle Sap Lake offers fascinating boat tours during wet season and walking tours in dry months, showing you real local life on the water. For serious anglers, Mekong River charters deliver exciting catches of carp and catfish while letting you experience genuine Khmer culture and food.
We especially love the Kampong Kleang tours for their culture – you’ll watch villagers practice age-old fishing methods and see houses perched on tall stilts. The Mekong charters win points for combining great fishing with local expertise and authentic meals.
Let’s explore the top fishing tours that make Phnom Penh special.
Key Points
- Fishing tours along the Mekong River offer a chance to catch carp, catfish, and other species in a personalized experience for groups up to 10 people.
- Kampong Kleang fishing village provides a unique glimpse into traditional Khmer fishing lifestyles, with boat tours and interactions with local fishermen during high-water seasons.
- Tour customization is available based on seasonal water levels, allowing for either boat-based or land-based exploration and fishing experiences.
- Engaging with local fishermen and sampling traditional Khmer cuisine enhances the culture and appreciation for the region’s fishing communities.
- Positive customer reviews highlight the personalized attention from guides and the opportunity to bring personal fishing gear for optimal results.
Siem Reap – Phnom Penh Stop Tonle Sap Fishing Village
One popular stop on the private transfer between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh is Kampong Kleang, a fishing community along the Tonle Sap Lake. Visitors can explore this unique village, where houses are built on stilts or float on the water.
Depending on the season, travelers may have the option to hire a boat from local residents to get a closer look at the fishing way of life. From August to December, the water levels are higher, allowing boat access to the villages. During the drier months of January to June, the tour will instead focus on driving directly to the community.
Regardless of the season, guests can interact with friendly locals, learning about their daily routines and sampling Khmer delicacies. The private driver can customize the journey, ensuring ample time to wander through the rural setting and capture memorable photos.
This stop provides a fascinating glimpse into the traditional livelihood of Cambodia’s Tonle Sap region.
Read our full review: Siem Reap – Phnom Penh Stop Tonle Sap Fishing Village Review
Book now: Check availability
Fishing Charter on Mekong River
For those seeking a more immersive fishing experience in Phnom Penh, a Mekong River fishing charter offers a fantastic opportunity. Priced from $80 per person, these full-day or half-day tours provide a chance to explore the river and try your hand at catching carp, catfish, and other species.
With a maximum group size of 10, the small-group format ensures personalized attention from the English-speaking guide and experienced boat captain.
The charter includes all necessary fishing equipment, instruction on techniques and bait usage, and opportunities for additional activities like boat tours and visiting Silk Island. Customers can also bring their own food and drinks to customize the experience.
While past reviews have been generally positive, some feedback suggests that the fishing equipment could be improved. For the best results, guests may want to consider bringing their own gear.
Read our full review: Fishing Charter on Mekong River Review
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The Sum Up
Visiting Phnom Penh’s Tonle Sap Fishing Village and booking a fishing charter on the Mekong River provide travelers with unique opportunities to experience Cambodia’s vibrant river culture. Travelers can enjoy the local fishing lifestyle, observe traditional fishing techniques, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mekong. These tours offer an authentic and memorable way to explore Phnom Penh’s rich natural resources and gain deeper insights into the country’s riverside communities.