Lagoon Fishing in Bentota: Morning, Evening & Night Trips on the Bentota River
Board a small boat at dawn and fish the sheltered channels of the Bentota lagoon with a local guide. These three-hour morning, evening or night trips offer easy fishing, hotel pickup and the option to have your catch cooked for a true coastal Sri Lankan meal.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time the tide
Book morning or evening trips around high tide for the best chance of active feeding fish; guides monitor tides and adjust accordingly.
Wear sun protection
Even early trips expose you to UV reflected off the water—bring a hat, sunglasses and SPF-rated clothing.
Bring a small dry bag
Protect phones, wallets and cameras from spray and unexpected rain—boats are small and gear gets wet easily.
Ask about cooking your catch
If you want your fish prepared, tell your operator in advance; arranging a shore cook adds time and cost but makes for a memorable meal.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddling quieter tributaries upstream where the river narrows and birdlife concentrates
- •A short shore stop near the lagoon mouth at low tide for observing local crab fishers
Wildlife
- •white-bellied sea eagle
- •various mangrove kingfishers and egrets
Conservation Note
Mangrove patches and tidal flats here are sensitive; avoid trampling roots, dispose of bait and trash properly, and follow your guide’s low-impact instructions to protect nursery habitat.
The Bentota River has supported coastal communities for centuries; its lagoon and mouth were historically used for fishing and small-scale trade linking inland settlements to the sea.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the stern of the boat looking up the river channel
- • Close to mangrove roots for intimate wildlife shots
- • At the lagoon mouth for broad seascape compositions
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduce glare and help you spot fish and structure beneath the surface.
Light rain shell
Useful during the southwest monsoon or unexpected squalls on the lagoon.
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protect feet when boarding boats and if you step ashore on muddy mangrove banks.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, documents and snacks dry during the trip.
Common Questions
What species can I expect to catch?
Common catches include trevally, small groupers, snapper and various lagoon species—size and type depend on tide, season and luck.
Is fishing gear provided?
Yes—Bentota Travel Mart provides the boat, tackle and a well-experienced fishing guide as part of the package.
Are trips suitable for beginners?
Yes—trips are suitable for all skill levels; guides provide instruction and handle tougher parts like baiting and landing fish.
Can we eat what we catch?
Yes—if you’re lucky, the operator can arrange to have your catch cooked for an additional fee; notify them in advance to ensure arrangements.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips depend on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund as per the cancellation policy.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes—free pickup and drop-off are included from hotels across Bentota and surrounding towns listed in the booking details.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Bentota, Southern Province
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires the ability to climb in and out of a small boat and sit or stand for several hours
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