Tokyo Bay

Tokyo, Japan · Saltwater · Intermediate

Japanese sea bass, or suzuki, hunt the pilings, canal mouths and bridge lights right in the middle of the world's largest metropolis. Night boats run from central Tokyo and the fishing is genuinely good.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat

Japan restricts recreational fishing by foreign nationals to small-scale methods, and the limits depend on the vessel. From shore, rod and handline, landing and scoop nets, spear, clam rake and cast net are all permitted. From a vessel under 3 gross tons, rod, handline, nets and trolling are allowed but cast netting is not. On a vessel of 3 gross tons or more — which covers most Tokyo Bay charter boats — foreign nationals may only fish aboard a Japanese vessel under the control of a Japanese fisher, so a licensed charter is the practical route. Prefectural rules apply on top of the national ones. Local etiquette is enforced: keep clear of set nets and fishing gear, stay out of restricted areas within fishing ports, and take your rubbish home. Permanent residents are not treated as foreign nationals under these Acts.

Access information source

Species

  • Japanese sea bass
  • yellowtail amberjack
  • flathead

Best times to fish

  • Summer nights
  • Autumn run (Sep-Nov)
  • Around the bridge lights on the tide

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Medium spin combo (8-16lb)
  • Minnows, vibration lures and soft plastics
  • Fluorocarbon leader
  • Head torch

Optional

  • Charter boat booking
  • Landing net
  • Rain jacket

Regulations and requirements

  • No licence is required for recreational sea fishing in Japan
  • Some port and harbour areas prohibit angling — check posted signs carefully
  • Local prefectural rules set minimum sizes for some species

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

Nearby fishing spots

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