Updated review following return trip in June 2024: So as you can see I’ve reduced my rating by one star due to the changes made by Gillhams resulting in a worst trip than before. But I’ll start with the positives, which were, the staff are friendly and welcoming as always, most of the food is lovely and the staff helped my husband have a lovely birthday. But sadly after returning to Gillhams 2years later I can honestly say it just didn’t live upto our expectations as it did previously. Don’t get me wrong it’s still a nice place and worth a visit but I didn’t expect things to be worse than before. The cost of some of things on site are extremely high for Thailand (example it’s about £16 per adult for a carvery - which I’d not recommend as was no where near as nice as before). The fishing isn’t no where near as good as it was previously and I’d say it’s over fished now (15/16 anglers a day with some putting 7-10kgs of bait a day in), also with some anglers getting a lot more help than others resulting in some people catching more than others. My suggestion would be to go expecting to catch nothing and then your hopes won’t be high. Also a thing to note is that it’s mainly a carp lake, so if you’re after other fish my suggestion would be to try another non-carp fishery in Thailand as although other species do come out they don’t come out as often as you think. But one of our biggest bug bears was the air conditioning, they’ve installed sensors in the room so that if you leave it turns off, which means when myself and husband are out of the room for the day fishing it results in returning to a hot room and an extremely hot bathroom, making it uncomfortable to get to sleep at night. For a resort that must clearly make good money, doing this to cut costs really infuriates me. It’s usually anything from 70% to 100% humidity each day with 30 degrees plus heat, so making it unbearable at times seems unfair on your guests. Also bearing in mind the room is the only place on the whole resort with air conditioning. Anyway, would I return, possibly but not for a long while and I’d have to do this part of our trip first so that the cheaper hotels don’t set my expectations too high.
June 2022 trip review: Amazing place and already planning our next trip out. You won’t be disappointed, some of the best fishing in the world. Food is lovely and all staff are so kind and helpful. We loved the feeling of how everyone was family. The fishing guides were fantastic. Thank you James and Sean for ensuring my husband had the best birthday holiday ever. We look forward to seeing everyone again in a...
Read moreIf you're into fishing then this is heaven. And even if you're not, the facilities are 5 star!
The whole place is spotless and has a luxurious feel about it. The rooms are immaculate and we had a large wetroom as a bathroom. The pool area is amazing, with views of the fishing lake and also the limestone mountains surrounding the area.
The bar area and restaurant also has a great atmosphere and we enjoyed a lovely breakfast. After the fishing we had a superb meal and a few beers chatting to other anglers and their partners. The food was very good with a large varied selection available. The prices were more than reasonable considering there is nothing else remotely nearby.
Then there's the fishing.
The 2 lakes are immaculate. Lots of well kept, overhanging bushes and trees keep the experience authentic. The pegs are solid and well maintained. We had 2 comfy chairs, a shaded area to sit, lighting, coolboxes and food and drink delivered to the peg regularly throughout the day.
Our guide, Jute, was very good and funny. He set our rods up, cast then out and dropped bait where it was needed. He placed our 3 rods in specific places to target different fish. We could cast the rods ourselves if we liked but the guides are so expert, I recommend letting them do it.
This is certainly not 'hook a duck' fishing and some anglers failed to catch in the 1st day. However, speaking to one of them in the bar that evening, he told me that he didn't care if he didn't catch any fish for the 3 days he was there as the whole experience was so good.
On the 2nd day, we fished the smaller lake for 'free' with Jute prepping all our hook lengths and bait for the session. We had a great 6 hours catching Julien Carp to 25lb and small red tail catfish.
This isn't cheap fishing but having experienced 2 days at Gillhams, and the amazing service by the staff, I can wholeheartedly say it is worth every penny and sincerely hope I get an opportunity to return.
Massive congratulations to the owners (who I've not met) they have got this...
Read moreBest fishing resort in Thailand! When I say resort, I mean resort too. This is a place to bring your family as well. The bungalows are well appointed, clean and spacious including air conditioned. The ground are so very well maintained you won't stop taking photos. The restaurant serves various food for your palate, from the simple sandwich and salad to authentic Thai and English delicacies! Top notch service you can get sent to your accommodation as well. For fishing, there are so many species to try for with guides to help you every step of the way. Huts on every swim with cover from the elements and a fan to cool you off with the tropical heat that Thailand is known for. There is a spa to relax your fishing muscles or have your lady have a spa day while you fish. Swimming pool at the spa as well to cool you off after your day of fishing. Cooking school located at the spa for you to learn your favorite Cuisine. Special evenings for Anniversary or special event for a couple, the spa is yours alone for that booking... so romantic with the gardens and lighting... just stunning! Main infinity pool is located mid property with lovely views of the lake and mountains. There is also a family bungalow for that trip of a lifetime. Staff will help you book excursions and taxis to get around. If you are looking for that venue that has it all.... Gillhams...
Read more