If hamour is the Gulf’s favourite on the plate, kanaad – the kingfish – is its favourite on the rod. This long, silver mackerel swims fast, hits the lure hard and makes the reel scream. Kingfish fishing in Abu Dhabi is a different game from bottom fishing, and our specialist captains love it. Here is what a kanaad trip looks like.
Meet the kanaad
Kanaad is the local name for the narrow-barred Spanish mackerel. It hunts in open water, chasing schools of small fish near reefs, channels and current lines. It has sharp teeth and a lot of speed, which is why it is so much fun – and why the tackle has to be right.
How we catch it: trolling and live bait
- Trolling: the boat moves slowly while lures or rigged baits swim behind it. The captain changes speed, depth and direction until the fish switch on.
- Live and fresh bait: when the fish are found, drifting live or fresh bait over the school can bring bites one after the other.
- Wire leaders: kanaad teeth cut normal line, so the crew rigs a short wire or heavy leader.
- The strike: when the reel screams, hold the rod firmly, let the fish run, then wind steadily. The crew gaffs it at the boat.
Best time of day and season
Kingfish are most active at first light and in the early morning, so kanaad trips usually start early. Through the year the fish follow the bait schools and the water temperature, and many anglers find the cooler months the most rewarding. Your captain tracks where the fish are and will suggest the best day and start time.
Why 6 hours
Trolling means covering water: running to the grounds, trying several lines and staying with the school once you find it. That is why our specialist trips with specialist captains start at 6 hours. A shorter trip suits casual fishing near the city; a kingfish hunt needs the full morning.
More fast fish on the same trip
Trolling and drifting in open water also brings trevally (jesh) and other hard fighters. On mixed days the crew switches between trolling and bottom fishing, so the whole group stays busy.
Kingfish fishing FAQ
Is kingfish fishing good for beginners?
Yes. On a trolling trip the rods sit in holders and everyone takes turns when a fish strikes. The crew guides you through the fight.
What time do kingfish trips start?
Usually early in the morning, when kanaad feed most actively. The captain confirms the start time for your date.
How long is the trip?
Specialist kingfish trips with our specialist captains start at 6 hours.
Can we eat the kanaad?
Yes – it is a favourite table fish in the UAE. We keep fish within the legal rules and the crew can help clean them.
Book a kingfish trip
Send us your date and group size and tell us you want kanaad – we will pick the captain, the boat and the start time. See our fishing trips and read the hamour fishing guide.
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