(Photo by Shoji Kudaka)
When it comes to fishing in Okinawa, deep sea excursions for mahi mahi and tuna may be what you expect. Or if you’re fishing with your kids, hitting a local pond is another option.
But in Motobu Town, anglers can board a boat at Toguchi Port to take them to a fishing raft floating in the middle of the ocean 10 minutes off the coast.
I hopped on a boat with a rental rod, bucket and some bait after signing in at the Umiseikatsu, a.k.a. Marine-life, shop. The fishing raft tour costs 10,200 yen (about $70) per person and includes the equipment rental for a full day.
Since the boat departs Toguchi Port several times starting at 8:30 a.m. and returns between 1 and 5 p.m., you easily factor in up to eight hours at the floating fishing raft.
The fishing raft would be a good starting point for fisherman of all levels. For beginners, it is a good way to fish in the middle of the ocean safely without worrying about getting seasickness. For the advanced angler, this is a good place to practice the casting depths. So, head to the raft to cast your line and reel in some fish.
Umiseikatsu (Marine Life)
GPS Coordinates: 26.658728, 127.890294
Hours: 8:15 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Website: https://marine-life.jp/
*Boat departs from Toguchi Port to the fishing raft between 8:30 - 11:15 a.m., and 1 p.m. -. The last returning boat from the raft arrives at the port at 5 p.m. If you would like to return before noon, let the captain or the store know by 11:30 a.m.
Fishing raft tour costs 10,200 yen (approx. $70, subject to change), including fishing rod, line, bait, a lifejacket rental and round-trip boat ride.