Planning to try squid jigging in Kemaman, Terengganu? Here’s a casual guide on how to get there, what to bring, and what the night fishing experience feels like.
Squid Jigging (Mencandat Sotong) in Kemaman, Terengganu
Some travel experiences stay with you not because they are fancy, but because they feel real. Squid jigging in Kemaman, Terengganu is one of them.
It is simple, a little unpredictable, and honestly quite fun — especially if you enjoy the sea, night breeze, and trying something different from the usual beach holiday.
In Kemaman, squid jigging is not just about catching squid. It is about heading out with a local boatman, waiting under the night sky, laughing when someone gets sprayed with squid ink, and feeling that small excitement when your line suddenly gets heavier.
Even if you come back with only a few squid, the experience itself is already worth the trip.
Where Is Kemaman?
Kemaman is located in the southern part of Terengganu, close to the Pahang border. If you are coming from Kuantan or Cherating, it is an easy drive up the coast.
The main town is Chukai, and around Kemaman you will find fishing villages, coastal areas, seafood restaurants, and quiet seaside spots. It is not as busy as some tourist towns, which is part of its charm.
Most squid jigging trips usually start from a local jetty or fishing village. The exact meeting point depends on the boat operator, so make sure you confirm the location before your trip.
How to Get to Kemaman
From Kuala Lumpur
If you are driving from Kuala Lumpur, the usual route is through the East Coast Expressway towards Kuantan, then continue to Kemaman.
A simple route would be:
Kuala Lumpur → Karak → East Coast Expressway → Kuantan → Cherating → Kemaman
The journey can take a few hours, depending on traffic and how many times you stop along the way. It is a nice road trip if you enjoy driving towards the East Coast.
Try to leave early so you do not feel rushed. If your squid jigging trip starts in the evening, it is better to arrive in Kemaman with enough time to check in, rest, eat, and get ready.
From Kuantan or Cherating
Kemaman is very convenient if you are already in Kuantan or Cherating.
You can spend the day around Cherating, enjoy the beach or grab something to eat, then continue to Kemaman for the squid jigging trip at night.
A nice short itinerary could look like this:
Kuantan → Cherating → Kemaman → Kijal
This makes the trip feel more relaxed instead of driving all the way just for one activity.
By Bus
If you are not driving, you can take an express bus to Kemaman or Chukai. From there, use local transport, taxi, or e-hailing to reach your accommodation or meeting point.
Just make sure your arrival time matches the trip schedule. Squid jigging trips usually begin in the evening, so arriving too late can be stressful.
When Is the Best Time to Go Squid Jigging?
Squid jigging in Terengganu is seasonal. It usually happens during the calmer months, when the sea conditions are better, and squid are more active.
Many locals and operators recommend the season from March to August, but the exact timing can vary depending on weather and sea conditions.
Before booking, check with the boat operator. Ask them whether it is a good time to go, whether the sea is calm, and what happens if the weather turns bad.
The sea can be unpredictable, so it is always better to listen to the locals.
What to Bring for Squid Jigging
You do not need to buy a lot of expensive fishing gear, especially if this is your first time. Most operators will provide the basic equipment.
Still, there are a few things that can make your night more comfortable.
1. Squid Jig
The main tool is called a squid jig, or candat in Malay. It looks like a small colourful lure with hooks at the bottom.
Some are bright, some glow in the dark, and some are designed to move nicely in the water. The idea is to attract squid so they grab onto it.
If you are a beginner, just use what the operator provides. No need to overthink it.
2. Fishing Line or Light Rod
Some trips use a handline, while others may use a light rod. A handline is simple and easy enough for beginners.
You lower the jig into the water, wait a bit, then move it up and down gently. That is basically the rhythm.
It sounds easy, but when you are actually on the boat, trying to feel whether something is pulling your line, it becomes surprisingly exciting.
3. Comfortable Clothes
Wear something light and comfortable. You might get wet, especially if the sea is a little choppy or if a squid decides to spray ink at the wrong moment.
Bring:
- A light jacket
- Extra clothes
- Small towel
- Slippers or rubber shoes
- Waterproof bag
- Plastic bag for wet clothes
- Cap or head cover
It can get breezy at night, so a jacket is always a good idea.
4. Seasickness Medicine
This one is important. If you are not used to being on a boat, take seasickness medicine before the trip.
Do not wait until you are already feeling dizzy. Once the boat is out at sea, there is not much you can do except sit quietly and regret your life choices.
Take it early and enjoy the trip properly.
5. Snacks and Drinking Water
Some boat packages include food and drinks, but it is still smart to bring your own water and light snacks.
You may be out at sea for a few hours, and the night can feel longer when you are hungry.
What the Experience Feels Like
The trip usually starts in the late afternoon or evening. Everyone gathers at the jetty, the boatman gives a short briefing, and then you put on your life jacket before getting on the boat.
At first, everything feels calm. The boat moves away from shore, the sky slowly changes colour, and the lights from land begin to look smaller.
This is one of the nicest parts of the trip. The wind, the sea, the sunset — it feels peaceful.
Then, once the boat reaches the squid jigging spot, the lights are turned on. Everyone finds a place by the side of the boat and lowers their jig into the water.
For the first few minutes, you may not feel anything.
You wait.
You lift the line a little.
You drop it again.
You wonder if you are doing it wrong.
Then suddenly, the line feels slightly heavier.
Not a strong pull like a big fish. More like something is hanging onto it.
You slowly pull it up, and there it is — your first squid under the boat lights.
That small moment is what makes the whole trip fun.
The Funny Part: Squid Ink
One thing you should know: squid can spray ink.
Sometimes it happens when you pull them up. Sometimes it happens when you least expect it. And sometimes, unfortunately, it happens directly at someone’s shirt.
But that is part of the fun.
You will probably hear people laughing, shouting, and teasing each other on the boat. It becomes less like a serious fishing trip and more like a shared night adventure.
So do not wear your nicest outfit.
Simple Technique for Beginners
You do not need to be a fishing expert to enjoy squid jigging.
Here is the basic idea:
Lower the squid jig into the water and let it sink. Then gently lift and drop the line. Keep doing it slowly. If you feel the line getting heavier, pull it up steadily.
That is it.
A few beginner tips:
- Do not pull too hard.
- Keep your movement smooth.
- Ask the boatman if you are unsure.
- Try different depths if nothing happens.
- Stay calm when you catch one.
- Keep your face away when the squid comes up.
The boatman usually knows where the squid are. So if he tells you to try a certain side of the boat, listen to him.
Is It Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, definitely.
Squid jigging is suitable for beginners, as long as you are comfortable being on a boat at night. You do not need fishing experience.
It can also be fun for families, groups of friends, couples, or even solo travellers who want to try something local.
However, if you are bringing children, check with the operator first. Ask about the boat size, trip duration, safety equipment, and sea conditions.
Why Try Squid Jigging in Kemaman?
Kemaman has a slower, more local feel compared to busier tourist destinations. That makes the experience feel more personal.
You are not just joining a polished tourist attraction. You are getting a small taste of local coastal life — the kind of activity that people here have known for years.
You also get to see a different side of Terengganu. Not just beaches, resorts and seafood restaurants, but the quiet excitement of being at sea after dark.
Some nights, you may catch a lot. Some nights, maybe only a few. But that is how the sea works.
And honestly, that is part of the charm.
Tips Before Booking Your Trip
Before you book, ask the operator a few simple questions:
- Where is the meeting point?
- What time does the boat leave?
- How long is the trip?
- Is the equipment included?
- Are life jackets provided?
- How many people will be on the boat?
- Is food or drink included?
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- Is the trip suitable for beginners or children?
Do not just choose the cheapest option. Choose someone who communicates clearly and takes safety seriously.
What Else to Do Around Kemaman
Since you are already in Kemaman, try to spend a bit more time around the area.
You can:
- Eat sata and otak-otak.
- Explore Chukai town.
- Look for local seafood restaurants.
- Visit nearby beaches around Kijal.
- Continue your trip to Cherating.
- Stay overnight and enjoy a slower East Coast getaway.
If you are coming from Kuala Lumpur, a 2-day 1-night trip is possible, but 3 days 2 nights will feel much more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Squid jigging in Kemaman is not a luxury activity, and that is exactly why it is special.
It is simple, local, and full of little moments — the boat ride, the sea breeze, the waiting, the first catch, the laughter when someone gets sprayed with ink.
You may not come back with a huge bucket of squid, but you will come back with a good story.
And sometimes, that is the best kind of travel experience.
