Reviewed · MALTA
Fishing Charters in Ta Xbiex Malta
Big game fishing out of Ta’ Xbiex is interesting for one simple reason: you’re up early and chasing real action, not just a casual line in the water. This private charter runs about 7 hours, starting from Roland Marinaix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, and it’s led by a small crew, often including skippers like Jake and Sebastian.
I like the hands-on feel, especially for people who don’t fish much. You get solid gear, a plan for where to go, and help when a rod gets tricky. I also like the way the trip connects the catch to your meal, since you can choose to have the fish cooked at a fine dining restaurant after you land it.
One possible drawback is that results are never guaranteed. Even with the best spots and the best tackle, sometimes you return with a story more than a freezer bag, and the boat can feel tight if you’re near the maximum headcount (they say 5 is the limit, but recommend 4).
Key things to know before you go

- 6:00 am start helps you reach prime fishing time, and you’ll likely be heading out soon after meeting.
- Private charter means it’s only your group on board, not a mixed boat-load of strangers.
- Group size matters: up to 5 is allowed, but 4 is the more comfortable sweet spot when fish are active.
- Top fishing gear and bait are provided, so you’re not showing up with bargain tackle.
- Your catch can be cooked at a fine dining restaurant if you request it in advance.
- Good weather is required, and the day can be rescheduled or refunded if conditions won’t work.
Morning start at Roland Marinaix, Ta’ Xbiex (and why 6am helps)
This charter is built around sunrise timing. The standard start time is 6:00 am, with the experience ending back at the same meeting point in Ta’ Xbiex. If you’ve never fished before, the early departure might feel like a lot, but it also means you’re on the water when fish are most likely to be feeding.
The meeting location is Roland Marinaix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, so you’ll want to plan your ride accordingly. The good news is it’s near public transportation, which makes it easier if you don’t want to rely on parking in a busy area of Malta.
One more thing I’d take seriously: the trip is private, so the schedule is about your group. The operator can arrange flexible meeting times if you need to adjust, but the default plan remains an early start to maximize fishing time.
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How a 7-hour big game hunt plays out on the water

Expect a full day. The charter runs about 7 hours, and the point is to cover water and target big game and deep sea species. In plain terms, this kind of fishing charter is less about “staying in one place” and more about moving to where the action is.
On a strong day, you might get multiple tuna bites in a short window. One person described their morning as productive, with tuna starting by around 6:45 and continuing through late morning. Another described landing a bonito, and several reviews mention fishing for species like giant bluefin tuna and mahi mahi.
Even when action is slower, the day still tends to feel active. You’re getting baits in the water, reels managed, lines checked, and the crew adjusting the approach based on what the sea is giving you. And when the fish are fighting, it turns into a real workout. That’s part of the fun, but it’s also why your group size and comfort matter.
There’s also a nice Malta bonus built into the experience: you’re out at sea early enough that the scenery feels fresh. A few reviews mention spotting dolphins from the water, which is the kind of moment that makes you look up between casts.
Boat setup, gear quality, and how first-timers get their footing

The operator says they use the best equipment available, and the reviews back up the “no corners cut” vibe. You should plan on getting proper fishing rods, tackle, and bait. You’re not expected to bring your own gear, and you’re not left to guess what to do with it.
What I like most here is the way the crew supports people who are new. Several reviews mention first-time anglers getting help with handling rods, and one review specifically says the crew let the group pull up the fish they caught and assisted when someone struggled. In other words, you’re not just watching someone else fish.
If you’re a confident angler, this setup still makes sense. The skippers like Jake, Sebastian, and Seb are described as proficient at finding the right spots and coaching the group. One review highlights that the skipper knew exactly where to go for the best catches, which is exactly what you want from a serious charter.
Practical takeaway: if you’re new, go in expecting a learning curve, but also expecting guidance. If you’re experienced, go in ready to fish hard, since when a big one hits, the boat becomes a fast-moving work station.
Skippers like Jake and Sebastian: local waters, fast decisions, real support

This is a family-run style operation, and you feel that in the tone and attention. Reviews mention the crew as friendly and conversational, with some trips described as fun beyond the fishing, including songs and lots of chatter that makes the boat feel like it has a pulse.
But the bigger value is competence. The skippers are repeatedly described as knowing local conditions and being direct about where to fish. One person credited the skipper with having the right spots dialed in, and another said the skipper was an excellent fisherman with no issues allowing the group to bring fish up themselves.
You’ll also want to remember that the crew handles the “big fish logistics.” When you’re battling larger fish, you need quick coordination: where everyone stands, how lines are managed, and how you keep the deck moving without turning it into chaos. That’s one reason they caution against more than four people on board even though they accept up to five.
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When the deck gets crowded, and what to do about it
They accept up to 5 people on board, but recommend no more than 4 because it can get crowded during fights and quick movements. If you’ve fished from boats before, you already know the truth: when fish are pulling, nobody has time to “just stand wherever.”
So here’s how to plan smart:
- If your group is 4, you’ll likely have enough room to move comfortably.
- If your group is 5, understand it may feel tighter than you expected, especially during the most intense parts of the fight.
- If you’re trying to maximize comfort and ease, treat 4 as the target number.
Also consider motion. One review mentions sea sickness on a second trip, and that’s the honest reality of Malta’s open water. If you’re prone to motion sickness, plan ahead. Bring what helps you, and don’t treat the day like it’ll automatically be calm just because it starts early.
The option to have your catch cooked at a fine dining restaurant
This charter offers a standout add-on: after you make your catch, you can choose to have the fish cooked at a fine dining restaurant. The operator says to let them know in advance if you want this extra, which is important because it affects how your catch is handled once you land it.
You’re not just bringing home a story. You’re turning it into a proper meal. Reviews back this up with examples like filleting so people can eat the fish later without stress. One review also mentions mahi mahi being taken home with no fee, which suggests the operator can be flexible depending on the situation.
That said, the cooking option is not described as automatic. It’s a choice, and it requires planning. If this is part of your dream day, communicate your preference ahead of time so you don’t end up feeling like you’re missing a key piece of the plan.
Value check: is $65 worth it for a Malta fishing charter?
The listed price is $65, and for Malta, that’s the kind of figure that makes you ask one question: what do I actually get for this money?
Here’s the value logic that matters:
- You’re buying a full 7-hour outing, not a short “try fishing” session.
- You’re getting gear and bait supplied, which saves money and hassle.
- You’re paying for the skipper’s effort to put you in the right places at the right times. Multiple reviews mention strong spot-finding and fast action when it hits.
- You have an optional “turn catch into meal” path through the fine dining cooking add-on.
The downside of any fishing charter is you’re also buying uncertainty. You can do everything right and still have a tough day. A couple of reviews describe slower results or not catching as much as hoped. That doesn’t mean the trip wasn’t handled well. It means you’re fishing the sea, not a stocked pond.
If you want the highest value, book with a group size that keeps the boat comfortable (around 4) and treats the day as a serious fishing outing, not a guaranteed trophy hunt.
What to pack for Malta sun and an early day at sea
Even if your day is mostly about fishing, Malta sun can be brutal. One review recommends bringing plenty of sunblock and protection, pointing out that UV radiation at sea is high. I agree with that advice. You’ll be on the water for hours, likely with less shelter than you expect.
Bring:
- Sun protection (high SPF sunscreen, plus something for your face)
- Sunglasses
- A hat or cap
- Water and anything you use to stay comfortable
- Motion support if you’re sea sick easily
And wear practical clothes. You’ll want to move quickly if you get a strong bite, and you’ll appreciate footwear with grip. This isn’t a “sit back and watch” tour.
Who this charter suits best (and who might want a different plan)
This is a great fit if you want:
- Big game fishing style action in Malta
- A private, small-group boat experience
- Coaching and help if you’re not an expert
- The option to turn your catch into a cooked meal
It may be less ideal if:
- You hate early starts and want a late morning outing
- You’re uncomfortable on small boats, especially at near-max group sizes
- You’re expecting a guaranteed catch every time
For experienced anglers, the sport angle is real. For beginners, the crew support is a big part of the appeal. One review even describes loving the sport after the first trip, which tells you they don’t just throw you a rod and walk away.
Should you book Big Game Fishing Adventures in Ta’ Xbiex?
If you’re booking for value and atmosphere, I think this is a strong choice. You get a serious morning schedule, quality equipment, and skippers like Jake and Sebastian who are repeatedly described as proficient and supportive. The cherry on top is the option to have your catch cooked, which turns the day into something you can taste, not just remember.
I’d book if you can handle uncertainty and you’re ready to fish hard for about 7 hours. I’d hesitate if you need a relaxed late-day plan, or if you’re very sensitive to motion.
If you do book, do one smart thing: plan ahead for the cooking add-on if you want it. Then show up early, sun-protected, and ready for a day where the sea decides how the story goes.
FAQ
Where is the meeting point for the fishing charter?
You meet at Roland Marinaix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, Ta’ Xbiex, Malta. The activity ends back at the meeting point.
What time does the charter start?
The start time is listed as 6:00 am.
How long is the fishing experience?
The experience is approximately 7 hours.
Is this a private tour?
Yes. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates.
How many people can be on board?
Up to 5 people are accepted, but the operator recommends no more than 4 people because the boat can feel crowded during larger fish and quick movements.
What fishing equipment is provided?
You’ll be equipped with the fishing gear and equipment provided by the charter operator, using the best gear they say is available.
Can you have the fish cooked after catching it?
Yes. After you catch your fish, you can choose to have it cooked at a fine dining restaurant. You should let the operator know in advance if you want this extra.
What happens if the weather is poor?
This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I cancel and get a full refund?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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