What Fish Can You Catch in Hurghada?

In 25+ years fishing the Red Sea out of Hurghada, I've caught more species than most anglers see in a lifetime. The Red Sea's unique geography — warm, clear water with dramatic drop-offs — creates an ecosystem that supports everything from tiny reef fish to 100kg+ Yellowfin Tuna.

Red Sea Sport Fishing Species — At a Glance

Detailed Species Breakdown

1. Yellowfin Tuna — The Red Sea's Holy Grail

No fish gets experienced anglers more excited than a school of Yellowfin Tuna crashing bait on the surface. In the Red Sea, these powerful fish migrate through from late December through April, with January and February being peak months.

We target them with our Crazy Yellowfin Tuna Safari package — a 9-hour expedition that searches the offshore grounds for bird activity above bait balls. When we find them, the action can be non-stop. Yellowfin fight extremely hard on the way down and on the way up — expect a 30–45 minute battle on a 30–50kg fish.

2. Wahoo — The Speed Demon

Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri) are among the fastest fish in the ocean, reaching speeds over 80 km/h. In the Red Sea, they're most active around Giftun Island and the northern drop-offs from May through October.

We target Wahoo at high trolling speeds (8–12 knots) with high-speed lures and rigged mackerel. A Wahoo strike is explosive — often taking line so fast the drag screams before you even pick up the rod.

3. Mahi-Mahi (Dorado) — The Acrobat

Mahi-Mahi are arguably the most visually stunning sport fish in the Red Sea — electric blue and green flanks that fade to gold as they tire. They're excellent table fish, and their acrobatic fights make them a favourite for beginners and experts alike.

We find them around floating debris, weed lines, and temperature breaks. May through September is prime season, when surface temperatures rise above 27°C.

4. Giant Trevally (GT) — The Reef Predator

Giant Trevally are the apex predator of Red Sea reefs. They're known for their aggressive strikes on surface poppers and their powerful, reef-diving runs that test both tackle and angler skill. GT fishing requires heavy spinning or popping gear — this is not a finesse game.

5. Barracuda — Year-Round Action

Great Barracuda are available year-round in Hurghada's waters and make excellent sport on light tackle. They're often caught trolling near reef edges and provide reliable action when other species are slow. Good eating in smaller sizes.

6. Emperor Snapper and Grouper — Deep Drop Targets

Our Deep Drop and Sport Fishing package targets these bottom-dwelling fish at 200–400m depth. Emperor Snapper are prized for their flavour — some of the best eating fish in the Red Sea.

Seasonal Calendar