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Testimonials

“Absolutely Fantastic”

 

Paul, Nicola and Mike Harding UK

Hi Stuart,
Back in the UK now and back to work, just wanted to say thank you to you, Benz, Becky, Sean and Noi for the warm welcome and great company throughout our stay. Good food by Becky and Noi, and not forgetting the arrangement of our days out when we were not fishing, never any trouble whatever time of day.

Not much I can say about the fishing, it is second to none, and all I can say to others is book yourself a trip as you cannot describe it, you have to be there. Also a special thanks to Joel, Chris, Steve and Lee, you have a great bunch of guy’s working for you that really go out of there way to help you catch fish.

Stuart, you have designed and built a World class fishing resort, with stunning views and top class accommodation, we already miss the view across the lake each morning, and when not fishing the pool which had a back drop view which money could not buy.

Thanks again, we will be back!!!

Best regards
Paul, Nicola and Mike Harding.

 

“41 Fish Over 100lbs”

Neil, Suzanne and Jake Kilshaw UK

Hi Stuart,
We hope you are all well, we are back home now and just wanted to drop you a note to thank you and all off your team for making our visit so enjoyable and memorable. As I said to you, what you have achieved is quite extraordinary and exceptional and cannot be faulted.

The surroundings are exceptional and are only beaten by the quality of the fish and the fishing. Having said that the professionalism, enthusiasm and skill of your team is what really stands out both on the fishing and non fishing sides. Whilst we worked mostly with Lee (who is an absolute star) we also had the pleasure of spending time with Joel, Chris and Steve who are all great lads and all of whom contributed in some way to our stay and success.

We can’t wait to come back and we are already looking forward to it, we just need to work out when we can return now!

Thanks again
Neil, Suzanne and Jake

 

Geoff Akroyd UK

I was on holiday in Singapore and was told about Gillhams fishing resort and thought I would give it a go and came for two days fishing with one night in the lakeside bungalows. I researched about the resort on the Internet but nothing prepared me for what I was met with when I arrived at the resort. Although the website is excellent it doesn’t do justice to the paradise that Stuart and Sean have created and doesn’t prepare you for the sights you see when you arrive.

Within minutes of arriving Sean had a cup of tea in my hand and I was looking over the lake and seeing an angler playing what looked like a runaway train (probably a Mekong Catfish) and then to see the incredible sight of Arapaima breaking the surface like dolphins… It truly is a anglers dream.

I was shown to my bungalow which has everything you need extremely clean and overlooking the lake and to sit on the terrace in the evening and listen to the sounds of the jungle you feel like you are on some film set! It even had free Wi Fi which meant I could send photos to my mates on the lakeside while they were sat working in their office at home!

I was introduced to Jason one of the guides and what this guy didn’t know about fishing isn’t worth knowing, he did everything possible to get me on the fish, if he could have swum out and put the fish on your hook I think he would and for all his help I am truly grateful. I caught Pacu on the 1st day but nothing prepared me for the second day when Jason and Sean spent an hour with me early in the morning to try and get me onto the Arapaima but the Amazon Red Tailed Catfish wouldn’t let them!

I fish in the UK mainly for Barbel and Pike but I have NEVER felt the power of being hooked onto one of these fish and you need to remember these are one of the smaller species in the lake so I can only imagine what it must be like being being pulled around the lake by a Arapaima or Mekong.
Anyone who is in to fishing …MUST… visit Gillhams Fishing Resort before they die ….you will have no regrets….it is everything you could want and more …Believe me once you have visited you will want to return which is something I’m going to do as soon as I possibly can!!!

 

Beverly and Mike Clifford (Carp-Talk, Pike & Predators and Coarse Angling Today)

We’d like to say a big thanks to Stuart, Benz, Sean, Becks and all the guides and the rest of the staff for making us feel so welcome and making our time at Gillhams Fishing Resort a trip to remember. The scenery is beautiful, the food was delicious and the accommodation was fantastic.


As for the fishing, where do you start? Our trip was short but in just four days we caught 30 fish between us including 7 different species. Where else in the world can you do that? Whether you are an experienced or novice angler, the advice and help from the guides is second to none and they are always on hand to help.

If you are considering a trip to Gillhams I’m sure you will have no problem catching some of the 48 different species in this awesome place no matter what your level of experience is. The only thing we could complain about is having to go back to the miserable English weather.
Thanks again for having us and making our stay so enjoyable. We both wish we could have stayed for longer and we’ll definitely be coming back!

Mick & Bev Clifford

 

Mark and Ann McIntosh UK

Hi to you all
I just wanted to write this as we have been fishing as a couple for ten years now and for seven of those we have been going to France after big carp and wells catfish. We had the opportunity to come to Gillhams fishing resort; unfortunately we could only take a week off work. We both work in the angling industry at Stapeley angling centre, and thought this would be a trip of a lifetime and we were not wrong.

Neither of us had experienced anything like the fishing at Gillhams all the fish are in wonderful condition as they are cared for every step of the way, and I am glad to say there care are of paramount importance. All of the guides are highly trained in what they do, and nothing is too much trouble they all work long days and strive to make sure that you have the best fishing trip.

Everything is catered with you in mind the bungalows are spotless the grounds are kept in pristine order. The meals are all of excellent quality either English or Thai, we could not fault anything.
We cannot recommend this experience highly enough, If you want to experience being treated like royalty with the excitement of not knowing what might be at the other end of you line this is the place to go. If unlike us you and your better half are not both nuts about fishing then there is plenty for the non angler to do, and a lovely pool is on site.

I was told the surrounding area is as wonderful as it is there, although we did not go off the complex as fishing is a bit of an obsession and we could not drag ourselves away.
We stand by everything we say as we have now booked for three weeks for next year.
We want to say again a big thank you to everybody who made our stay really memorable

Best wishes
Ann and Gordon (Mac) Mcintosh

 

Igor Moscow Russia

Hi Stuart!

Firstly, many thanks for a wonderful atmosphere, relaxation and fishing in this beautiful place! For two days I was practically done everything that is outlined: arapaima and the Mekong have been the best trophies! Not only Siamese carp caught, but it will be one more reason to return!

Igor

 

Pavel Marych Ukraine

Dear Stuart!

Hello from Ukraine! I want to thank you again for the best fishing in my life! It was amazing, super, and simply unforgettable! Finally my dream to catch big Arapaima has come true (thanks to you and to the best fishing resort in the world)! I am still under impression!

This fishing will always remain in my memory, and I’m sure that sometime I will obligatorily come for fishing to your resort again!

Best Regards
Pavel Marych

 

Angling Direct Dave Plummer escorted trip Ken Scott

Hi Stuart, Sean, Becca and Noi,
Just contacting you all to thank you for a great fortnight at the resort, the fishing in such fantastic surroundings was really amazing thanks to all the support from the guides especially Sean in my case. I am sure all the guys on the trip appreciated all the great advice and help in catching some great fish.

Thanks also Stuart for driving us into the towns for the meals and bar visits it was much appreciated. Perhaps next time we will be able to try the local restaurant in Krabi crispy pork if they don’t run out again!!!

Thanks again for the drive for some of us up to Phuket/Patong and the overnight stay, really enjoyed the chance to see a bit more of the country.

Please pass on a special thank you to Becca and Noi for all the great food and service throughout the stay. The Thai food was great and of course the Sunday roasts outstanding.

Well done.

I have booked up to come back with Angling Direct Dave Plummer escorted trip for the last week in September next year, wish it was sooner! Looking forward to seeing the new fly fishing lake next time.

Sorry for the delay in sending thanks, but been a bit busy catching up at work! Whoopee!

All the best to you all,
Ken.

 

Richie Hull UK

Hi all just to say a huge thanks to the whole team at Gillhams fishery, as a match angler this was something new to me and my mates who travelled with me, what a trip, the best holiday ever,

I had fish that you only dream of, and photo’s to cherish for life, and yes, Stuart was right, we all can’t wait to get back asap, a big thanks must go to my mates, the best group I could have wished to have gone with, what a laugh we had, Gillhams fishery and Thailand is just amazing.

Thanks.
Richie Hull, United Kingdom

 

Chris, Sonia and the girls xx

Hi Stuart and the crew,
Just a big thank you to you all for such a superb holiday at your incredible lake resort…!!!
I arrived with my family wondering if fishing and wife plus 2 girls under 12 was a good idea. As soon as we set foot in your resort we could tell that families are totally welcomed and encouraged. At no time did we feel the serious fishermen came first and our accommodation was put right outside the stunning pool.

We were welcomed by all the other guests at the resort and have made some new friends as well…The lodges are really nice and the view over the lake is awesome from every single one. I would say one of the best fishing lodges worldwide…..Really that good…

Anyone wishing to visit with a family and wondering if this is a good idea should contact us for an honest review on how amazing the place is….
The day trips we took with you were great.

Sean lent my kids enough dvd’s from his own collection to keep them busy all night.
Becca went to town to get Sonia a birthday cake after suggesting to Lee this would be a good idea.
The food was superb and the choice was enormous… All freshly cooked.

The setting and the lake are just breathtaking. Really, really special. I think you have created something magic and we are already planning a second visit.
My girls fell in love with Russell the puppy but not Sean’s snakes..lol..

I have travelled the world to many of the top saltwater destinations and missed the freshwater lake fishing completely. Upon arrival I explained my inexperience in this type of fishing and was given Lee as my guide for my 7 days fishing. He was superb and showed me the rods, reels, rigs and places to fish. I fished 3 pegs in my visit and caught masses of fish of amazing species. It was not a fish a chuck and we worked to catch our fish. This made every fish special and I have come away hooked on a new freshwater sport.

My catch included 2 arapaima to 150lb, Siamese carp to 85lb, Alligator Gar to 40lb, Redtail Catfish to 65lb also many other rare and exotic species.

The fish were looked after at amazing lengths and go back fit and healthy ready for the next lucky sod to catch.

The photographs are just amazing and have been taken by guides who get the best shots every time.

The fishing was great and even better when it poured down so all weathers the fish are catchable.

To any other saltwater fishermen out there that have missed this type of fishing I would strongly advise a trip to Gillhams Resort to experience this place and these fish.

I am still listening for that beep on the bite alarm now and it can be best described as the same reaction you have on a marlin boat when your lure gets pulled from the outrigger. “snap” Only difference I could find is Gillhams is a mile cheaper than the saltwater fishing and just as much fun……….

Stuart, Sean, Becca, Lee and the gang thanks for our great trip. We are coming back really soon to ring that bell !!! Best get some wine chilling for Sonia…..
Big Huggs
Take Care
Chris, Sonia and the girls xx

 

John Founds UK

Just a short note to thank You, Sean, Becky & your staff for a very enjoyable stay. I found the fishing difficult but rewarding and was delighted with my results.

I caught a total of 21 fish including 4 Mekong up to 160lb and a Redtail of 50lb, all of which were P.Bs and very satisfying.

John Founds – UK

 

Mandy, Courtney and Sean Australia

Dear Stuart, Sean, Becky, Guides, Staff and respective Families (including little Jack!),

Thank you for a wonderful 2 and half days at Gillhams. We absolutely loved it. Now back to life and its normal reality, makes the time we spent with you seem even more superb.

There are so many things I could write, but will refrain to save the eyes and time! Just know we appreciated very much your attention to detail and friendliness. Fantastic scrummy food, brilliant location, beautiful gardens, gorgeous pool, super clean and totally comfy bungalows, amazing fishing and all the little things that you think may go un-noticed, but yet help to make Gillhams all the more special.

Your friendly staff, keen management and family team elevate Gillhams to a truly ‘could not want for anymore’ experience.

We truly relaxed while Courtney reveled in his fishing adventure, with each one of us coming away very happy and contented. We have started in on family and friends, showing amazing pictures with wonderful stories and feedback, which hopefully provides a few new visitors in the year or two to come.

Personally we would love to visit again.

Blessings,
Mandy, Courtney and Sean – Australia

 

Michael and Jenna Moore UK

Hi Becks,

Home now and absolutely gutted, hopefully be booking up for next October but will contact you in due course on that. Would like you to thank both Dave and Scott again for their help they really made it dream fishing for me.

on the two days I fished the day tickets I caught a 40lb and 50lb Siamese carp and a 20lb red tail catfish on the first day and 60lb arapaima 100+lb Mekong catfish and another 60lb arapaima plus lost 3 fish all on the second day absolutely fantastic fishing and once again thanks to all at Gillhams Fishing.

Tight lines
Michael and Jenna Moore – UK

 

Darron Yeoman UK

Thanks 4 a great time at the lake a big thank u 2 the Thai bailiff working so hard 4 me in that hot sun. A big thank you to Scott who helped me catch a couple of harry palmers lol. Can’t wait 2 come again.

Becky a big thank u the food was great xx. Scott u r the man take care. Stuart many thanks again. Hope 2 book up soon.
Darron Yeoman – UK

 

Daniel and Kristina Eriksson Sweden

We just wanted to e-mail and say that we had an absolutely superb time at your resort!

The gorgeous venue, the food, the service, the guides and of course the fishing were all flawless in my opinion.

I think we even managed to turn my wife into an angler (her Facebook-profile picture is now her with an Amazon red tail).

Me not being a very experienced angler had great help from Dave, Scott, Matt and Gollock and managed to land awesome fish.

We are already looking at dates to come back for a longer stay, maybe later this year or at the beginning of next year.

Please forward our best wishes to all the staff and guides.

All the best!
Daniel and Kristina Eriksson– Sweden

 

Paul Duggan Hong Kong

Hi there Stuart and the team at Gillhams,

Just wanted to say many thanks for the time my dad and I recently spent with you.

As ever it was Paradise, beautiful fish, post card surroundings, top food, and friendly staff to include the guides, restaurant, cleaners, gardeners and drivers.
Paul Duggan – Hong Kong

 

Barrie and Fran Sayers UK

To everyone at Gillhams who made our holiday so wonderful. Stewart you are a great guy and we enjoyed your company and humor. ALL your of staff are a credit to Gillhams as a fishing resort and also as a holiday venue. Special thanks to Scott for his company and guiding, Becky and Noi for their cheerful service, and for all the excellent food.

The management of the resort by yourself and Sean while being laidback is professional and welcoming. We hope to come back again in the future.
Barrie and Fran Sayers – UK

 

Justin Cole UK

Didn’t get to say a proper thank you in person but I had an awesome time in excellent company, everyone as usual was a pleasure to be around and I’m lucky enough to have made a few new friends along the way too.

I’m gutted to be back home, never felt quite so depressed after a holiday as when I got off the plane on Wednesday, I can’t wait to come back.
Justin Cole – UK

 

John Bevan UK

Hi M8 well what can I say a fishing of a life time ‘I’ll Be Back’ well Stu thanks for a fantastic time and was so good to see you and the family all looking so well guess it reminded me of what a good mate u are, one of the best, such a stunning place to be how you done it all I don’t know guess you’re a very clever and level headed geezer.

I can’t find, not that I’d want to, one fault with the holiday except maybe too big a meals Just can’t get over it I am still trying to adjust to home life. Give my Regards to Becky & Sean and Scott & Matt You take care and I’ll be in touch soon
Bevo

John Bevan – UK

 

Simon Dunbar UK

Just read your June newsletter (thought it was spot on too!) and wanted to say thanks for my trip out in June. I loved your fishery and thought the accommodation and food were first class.

I caught some great fish , I know if I had put in more effort I could have had more , but I wanted to make more of a holiday of my trip, I know Vince worked hard and caught an impressive haul , but I wanted more of a lazy , chilled holiday.

Even so I managed to catch the fish species I came for so I was quite happy , plus it was nice to have a break from the fishing and cool down in your swimming pool each day !!

I have been on a few fishing trips abroad and it was nice to know that after a long day’s fishing I was going to eat well and sleep well in a decent room !! I came to Thailand to have a relaxing break and catch some nice fish and that’s exactly what I did , so many thanks , you have created a fisherman’s paradise out there !!

Many thanks, Simon.
Simon Dunbar – UK

 

Gavin Singapore

Hi Stuart
A big thank you to yourself, Sean, Scott and the rest of your members for having
My wife and me recently. For sure I will be speaking to a lot of local anglers
About the beautiful resort, excellent food.
Gavin – Singapore

 

Dean and Jenni Handley UK

Hi Stuart and Sean

Just wanted to drop you a line to say what a fantastic day my wife and I had at your resort, jenni fell in love with Jack, even shared her dinner with him!

I’m attaching some photos that maybe you can use on the website. I’d like to say a huge thanks to Scott who we had a laugh with and appreciated his expertise, he definitely knows his stuff and helped me land 3 decent fish! I’m hoping to come back in October, and will email you nearer the time.

Thanks again – what a Great resort you have, it’s a fisherman’s dream!

Dean and Jenni Handley – UK

 

Mick and Ryan Dalton UK

Dear Stuart, Becca and Sean,

Just a quick line to say thanks for a fantastic holiday, your place is amazing and the fish are incredible. It was great just to sit and take in the surroundings.

I was very impressed on the level of care shown to your fantastic fish by all the guides, and I would appreciate you passing on mine and Ryan’s great thanks to Matt Dave Scott and Gollock, they were great company and extremely helpful, in our rush to leave we did not get chance to thank them all properly .

Our compliments to the chefs, all our food was top class especially the Thai food.

Just to say again many many thanks for a fabulous experience and I would be very happy to recommend your place to any fishing friends.

Best wishes
Mick and Ryan Dalton – UK

 

Phil, Detta and Amelia Escott UK

I am completely speechless at how welcomed we felt at your place. Great company, great fishing, great accommodation, great food, and tremendous comedy, both intentional from you, and unintentional from the punters…

Still can’t get Alf’s hairy arse out of my head. Everyone is so cool there – all the guides are great and never moan about anything (not that I did too much to cause any, I hope).

Yeah, we definitely feel that we have made some great new friends, and thank you so much for all you did for us, even though you have so much else to do all the time.

I’m sure we will be over again, and maybe if I come over with two stone less heat insulation, a shaved head, and my son Tom for competition, I might be better with the heat and actually fish for more than a couple of hours a day!

Really looking forward to it.

Thanks so much, and lots of love to you, and to the whole family, who were all amazing, and all great company too.

Love,
Phil, Detta and Amelia Escott – UK

 

Stewart and Heather Downing Pure Fishing UK Ltd

One in a million !
That’s the best way to describe our experience at this fabulous destination fishery.

My wife Heather and I fished there for 2 weeks in November and December 2009, and had simply the best time, to the extent that we only left the site for a few hours during our 2 week session!

We fished hard and had the results with loads of huge fish that just pulled like nothing else you have experienced – and even the smaller carp put our European fish to shame!

The fishing is literally out of this world, with an ever increasing collection of fantastic wonder-species to have a shot at, coupled with fantastic accommodation and food, plus great company. You can target your species with great success if you stick at it, and remember, there are multiple world records swimming around in there to land!

Trust me, I have been fortunate to enjoy some thrilling fishing over the years in many countries, but this one tops the lot – it will rarely be easy here, but it will always be worthwhile! Other places we have fished have been good, but the accommodation or facilities were usually lacking; but here you have the best of both, and all quite literally on your doorstep from your luxury waterside bungalow.

We are already re-booked for Christmas and New Year to have a shot at the Mekong, one of the species we failed to catch on our first trip.

Thanks a million Stuart and All at Gillhams Resorts

Stewart Downing
Pure Fishing UK Ltd

 

Keith & Tracie UK

I enjoyed a week long stay at Gillhams with my ‘non-fishing’ partner Tracie over the New Year period of 2009/10. We were half way through a 4 week holiday in Thailand at the time and loved every minute of our stay.
Having been out the fishing game for quite a few years, I was really looking forward to getting a rod in the water and trying my luck with the monsters of Gillhams.

I couldn’t have picked a better location, the place is absolutely stunning and the grounds are immaculately kept – a real testament to Stuart and his team. And what a team – from Benz, Steve and Noi at the bar, to Sean, Scott and Gollock around the lake, not to mention the others behind the scenes everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful.

It was a pleasure just to be there, but luckily I had a few fish out as well! Overall I caught fish of five different species – Arapaima to 150lb, Amazon Red Tail Catfish to 70lb, Siamese Carp to 40lb as well as Sorubim, Alligator Gar and Snakehead.

I had the misfortune to lose a few fish including two Arapaima that were much bigger than the ones I banked, but that only adds to the intrigue of this lake and ensures that I’ll be back at the earliest opportunity to put things right! Tracie even got involved with the fishing on the last day of our stay, landing two Amazon Red Tails and a Wallago – needless to say she is now also hooked and wants to return at the earliest opportunity.

There was only one part of our stay that really did annoy us, and anyone reading this should take note: Sooner or later you will have to leave, and you won’t want to.
So make sure you’re booking in for as long as you possibly can – you won’t regret it!

Thanks again,
Keith and Tracie UK

 

Ashley, Jeremy en LEA Nederland

Een kennis van ons was Gillhamsfishingresorts tegen gekomen op het internet en was nieuwsgierig naar de vissoorten die op zijn site staan.

Ik, mijn vader en nog 2 vrienden gaan elk jaar vissen in spanje op meerval. Wij wilden wel eens wat anders proberen en hebben contact gezocht met Stuart via e-mail.

We hebben prijzen gevraagd en na overleg met onze vrienden hebben ik en mijn vader en zijn vriendin geboekt. Onze vrienden hebben toch besloten om niet te gaan.

Na het plotselinge ziek worden van mijn vader was het de bedoeling om alles te annuleren. Omdat ik geen annuleringsverzekeing had en mijn vader ook niet hebben mijn broer en mijn moeder aangeboden om mee te gaan naar Gillhamsfishingresort. Gelukkig waren we op tijd om de tickets op naam te veranderen.

Van Amsterdam naar Bangkok om vervolgens een binnenlandse vlucht naar Krabi te nemen.

Aangekomen op Krabi werden we hartelijk ontvangen door de vrouw van Stuart. Niet te vergeten te vertellen dat we rond de kertsdagen bij hem aanwezig waren. Wij zijn vertrokken met echt winterweer. Sneeuw, vorst en nog meer ellende. Aangekomen in Bangkok was het gelijk al 30 graden, helemaal super.

Na een rit van ongeveer een half uur kwamen we bij zijn resort aan. Het eerste wat ons opviel was hoe ongelovelijk verzorgt er alles uitzag. We keken onze ogen uit naar het stukje paradijs waar we waren belandt.

We hebben kennis gemaakt met Stuart zelf en zijn zoon Sean. Hij heeft het een en ander uitgelegd over hoe het bij hem werkte. Wij hebben een drankje gedronken en zijn naar onze bungelow gebracht.

Daar binnen gekomen hadden we precies dezelfde indruk als die we hadden bij het aankomen van het resort, in 1 woord super!!

Stuart heeft ons ook een korte rondleiding gegeven op zijn resort, en heeft ons uitgelegd hoe het werkt met de eerste visdag.

Na de rondleiding hebben we onze koffers uitgepakt en zijn we wat gaan eten in zijn restaurant. We zijn in totaal 2 weken gebleven en hebben 2 weken in zijn restaurant gegeten. Steve is een vriend van Stuart en is de kok in zijn restaurant samen met een Thaise kelner. Ik weet alleen haar naam niet meer. Steve heeft lekker voor ons gekookt.

De eerst volgende morgen werden we voorgesteld aan Scott die ook net als Sean een visgids is. Uitgelegd hoe alles in zijn werk gaat en hebben in totaal 7 dagen gevist.

Niet vergeten te vertellen dat de gear waar je mee vist ook tot in de puntjes is verzorgd. Je vist met 10 foot meervalhengels en Shimano big longcast baitrunner molens.

Deze gear is zwaar genoeg om grote vissen mee te vangen.

Wij hebben in totaal 47 vissen weten te landen.

8 Arapaima’s waarvan de zwaarste 180 pond.

21 Siamese karpers waarvan de zwaarst 45 pond.

2 Redtail Amazon Catfish waarvan de zwaarste 40 pond.

2 soorten Piranha’s, 6 stuks waarvan de zwaarste 27 pond.

Alligator gar, Snakehead, Spotted Sorubim, 2 soorten Wallagu, 3 Asian Redtails.

Een hele variatie van vissoorten waar ik nog nooit van had gehoord.

Vissoorten met ongekende kracht.En wat ons ook opviel dat de vissen die je vangt er bijna onbeschadigd uitzien. De vissen worden met grote voorzichtigheid behandeld. Heel erg prettig om te zien.

De dagen die we niet hebben gevist, hebben we aan het zwembad gelegen en hebben we wat dagtrips gemaakt.

Ook voor iemand die niet vist is dit een hele mooie plek om te zijn!

We hebben ons prima vermaakt. Op elk front tot in de puntjes verzorgt.

Locatie is super, het eten is super, de bungelows zijn super, de visserij is super en Stuart, zijn zoon Sean en al het personeel wat daar rondloopt is super!

Wij hebben een heel goeie vakantie gehad en ik kom zeker weer terug op zijn resort.

Groeten uit Nederland van Ashley, Jeremy en LEA.

 

Dean Macey

2006 Commonwealth Games Decathlon Champion.

Heaven is a fishery and its called Gillhams Fishing Resort!

I have been lucky to travel the world over the last decade and even luckier to wet a line in some amazing places but none of them can hold a candle to Gillhams Fishing Resort.

The facilities are out of this world and the fishing blew my mind every single day.

Where else on the planet can you catch 39 fish, with 9 different species and every one of them a PB, in just a week.

I would quite happily fish no other destination for the rest of my life.

I’ll be back next year, and probably the year after that to. Awesome!

 

Peter Rogers UK

Dear Stuart

Just a quick note to say thanks to you and your team for letting me have such a great time. I only came because of mistakes in my itinerary, best holiday mistake I have made.

The fishing was fantastic with the biggest fish I have ever caught, and those were only small compared to the biggies and in fantastic condition. The food, accommodation and resort where first class.

I will not recommend you to anyone because the least that know the better for me to get back.

Last thing, I would like to thank in particular Scott and the guides for baby sitting an inexperienced angler without patronizing or wiping my back side.

I WILL BE BACK !!!!!
Peter

 

EDDIE & LYNNE GREY UK

HI STUART, BENZ, MR JACK, SEAN, NOI, STEVE, MAN & GOLLOCK(MR SQUIRREL)

FINALLY GOT AROUND TO WRITING A FEW WORDS ABOUT A FABULOUS WEEK ME & LYNNE SPENT WITH YOU IN AUGUST, I CANNOT THANK YOU ALL ENOUGH FOR MAKING OUR TRIP TO YOUR PARADISE LAKE A WEEK TO REMEMBER. THE ASTOUNDING BEAUTY THAT SURROUNDS YOUR LAKE IS WORTHWHILE SEEING ALONE, REGARDLESS OF THE FISHING. THE HARD WORK YOU HAVE ENDURED TO GET YOUR SPECIAL PLACE REALLY DOES TAKE FOR SOME BREATH TAKING SCENERY.

BUT BEWARE THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE THINKING OF FISHING THIS PLACE, BECAUSE WHAT LIES BENEATH THESE MURKY WATERS IS AS EQUALLY
BREATHTAKING.AND DEFINITELY NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED FISHERMAN.

LYNNE & MYSELF HAD A WEEK FISHING AT THIS BEAUTIFUL RESORT IN THE THAI WET SEASON (AUGUST) WE HAD TWO RAIN SHOWERS! ONE WHEN WE ARRIVED AT 5.00PM WHICH LASTED APPROX 1 HR & THE SECOND ON OUR LAST NIGHT FOR 30 MINS.

LYNNE DOES NOT FISH BUT SHE WAS MORE THAN HAPPY LYING BY THE BEAUTIFUL SWIMMING POOL SIPPING COLD DRINKS AND SUNNING IT UP.
WHILE I WAS DOING BATTLE WITH SOME OF THE WORLDS LARGEST FRESHWATER FISH SPECIES.

IN A ONE WEEK PERIOD I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO CATCH 42 FISH WHICH CONSISTED OF 10 DIFFERENT SPECIES (8 I HAD NEVER HEARD OF LET ALONE CAUGHT BEFORE)
THE SIZES OF THESE FISH RANGED FROM 10LB UP TO A MIND BLOWING 340LB.
IN ONE DAYS FISHING ALONE I CAUGHT OVER 1000LBS IN WEIGHT OF FISH.
BREAKING MY PERSONAL BEST 4 TIMES IN ONE DAY.

ANYONE VISITING THIS VERY SPECIAL PLACE I CAN GIVE YOU SOME WELL WORTHY ADVICE WHETHER YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF TO BE A GOOD ANGLER OR NOT, ALL I WOULD ADVISE YOU TO DO IS LISTEN TO WHAT THESE GUYS TELL YOU, BECAUSE THESE GUYS WORK THIS PLACE ON A DAILY BASIS & THEIR KNOWLEDGE IS SECOND TO NONE.

STUART, WE CANNOT THANK YOU AND ALL CONCERNED WITH THE RUNNING & UPKEEP OF YOUR TREMENDOUS RESORT ENOUGH FOR MAKING US FEEL TOTALLY AT EASE AND MORE THAN WELCOME. ROLL ON XMAS WHEN WE’LL BE BACK FOR MORE MOUTH WATERING FOOD, FREEZING COLD BEERS,TOP CLASS ACCOMMODATION OH AND OF COURSE THE ARM WRENCHING , GUT BUSTING, FISHING IN PARADISE

BYE FOR NOW MATE

TAKE CARE ALL AND SEE YOU SOON,

EDDIE & LYNNE GREY

 

Steve Kendrick & Tracy Kendrick Germany

Paradise- one word that sums up Gilham’s fishing resort. When my boyfriend, Steve, booked us to spend a week here at the end of our summer travelling around Asia, I admit I was apprehensive. However, I really needn’t have worried. This was the best part of our summer and by the second day we were both talking of “when” we would come back rather than “if”! From the moment we arrived and saw the stunning setting, I knew we were both going to have a great time.

Gillham’s is small enough to be intimate but big enough that it is not claustrophobic. As a non-fishing partner, I spent my days swimming in the pool, sunbathing, reading and sitting by the side of the lake chatting. Oh….and eating copious amounts of delicious food! Steve was fishing and I was left to relax – perfect!

I even got the fishing bug a bit and played a 20lb carp into the net. (Didn’t like having to climb into the lake to have my photo taken much though, but I am sure that poor Sean liked having to heave me out even less!)

I cannot praise the staff and facilities highly enough. The maids and gardeners work so hard at keeping the resort looking immaculate; Benz is on hand for transport into town during the day as well as cook wonderful Thai food; Steve’s cooking is out of this world and a special thanks to him for keeping up with my constant demands for something a bit different. And of course, Stuart and the fishing guides, Sean and Gollock need praise.

For us, Sean was fantastic and could not have done anymore to make the whole fishing experience as amazing as possible for Steve. He also managed to cope with me tipping up at the peg, demanding conversation and asking stupid fishing related questions, although he did threaten to add some of my comments to the monthly newsletter…….

We will be back (sorry, Sean!) and soon.

Thanks you so much to everybody for a brilliant, brilliant week.
Tracy

 

Jarrod and Heather Portelance Houston, Texas, USA

Stuart,
Just wanted to take a minute to tell you how much fun we had at your place a couple weeks ago! I’ve attached a couple of pictures of the Siamese carp that Heather caught; unfortunately we didn’t get any good photos of my arapaima. You, your girlfriend, Shawn, and your staff were an absolute delight and we have to say our day with you was one of the best on our 14 day tour of Thailand.

Please tell your girlfriend that her food was the best of our trip, and we mean that!!

Thanks again for such a wonderful experience,

Jarrod and Heather Portelance
Houston, Texas, USA

 

Tim Watson UK

Hi Stuart & Sean,

I just had to write that although I have fished for 30 years and fished in some amazing places, I have to say that your fishery was the most beautiful, well managed, comfortable and has the most amazing fish & creatures within it.

The two arapaima that I had the good fortune to hook and land were stunning & the fight was mind blowing.

The place left me awestruck and has embedded some memories that I believe will stay with me to my last days.

A credit to all the hard work, blood, sweat and tears that you have no doubt had to endure cutting out your little piece of heaven.
A truly wonderful fishery that is my opinion cannot be beaten – BLOODY FANTASTIC!

Cheers,
Tim

 

Neil Cobley UK

So where do I start??? I guess my trip for Gillhams mentally started as soon as I booked my flights and confirmed my booking with Stuart. From there on in it was a constant thought process of rigs, bait and tactics. Armed with 12KG of Big Fish Mix, 5 Kilos of Nutrabaits ready-mades and 10 pots of pop-ups and flavorings (and much to My wife’s consternation that she couldn’t take her required shoe allowance)- we took the 11 hour flight to Bangkok and then the further 1.5 hours down to Krabi.

From here on in things were just fantastic. Benz picked us up in her 4 x 4 at the airport and we started to relax immediately. All of the team at Gillhams just want to do their best to ensure you have a great stay. This is including everyone down to the maids and the gardeners who do a great job in keeping the place looking fantastic and clean. It was mother’s day whilst I was there and Benz and Sean arranged for a bouquet of flowers to be left outside our lodge on the Sunday morning for my Wife (which bought me extra fishing time credits!!!).

On another night we all went out to the Thai boxing and didn’t get back until late. When we arrived the security guard was waiting with a big umbrella for us all as it was howling it down with rain. It’s at times like that you feel like you are in a resort rather than a lake somewhere in the middle of no-where.

The restaurant is first class. Steve’s food is spot-on just what you need when you need that homely feeling (And you must try at least 3 or 4 of the Thai curries- they are excellent). On the morning we went elephant trekking Steve and Noi knew we were running short on time and our breakfast was ready and waiting for us- Not that we became predictable but our usual drink (including perfect cups of English tea) and food order was there waiting for us so we could eat quickly and get off!!!

So onto the fishing. Don’t be under any illusions that this is an easy water. It does require some thought and the first week I spent trying to work the lake out with different rigs, baits, feed strategies, methods and depths. I made steady progress putting a few away, however in the second week- things came together and I landed a 125lb Siamese carp. Total for the 2 weeks was around 40 fish of 10 different species (Sorry Terry, I managed another two Julian’s after you went). This was fishing for a couple of hours in the morning and a few at night (with odd 8 hour day thrown in).

The standouts being the Siamese, an 85Kilo Arapaima and an alligator gar that took a chunk out of my arm!!!. By the same means a guy turned up on a day ticket on my penultimate day and caught a 100+ carp and hooked (and lost after an hour) a big stingray. So if you want to put yourselves in the hands of the guides and just do a day- the big fish are achievable. On that note the guides are excellent, and know the water well. Gollock worked his ass off for me every single night – mostly in the rain to try and get the last fish of the day out- frequently me disappointing him by fluffing the hook-ups!

 

Marc Pickering UK

Hi stuart,sean and all of your team

just a brief message to thank you all for the great time i had at your resort recently unfortunately your website doesnt begin to show the beauty and tranquility of this wonderful place,the fishing was obviously harder than usual due to the incredibly hot weather but everyone fishing had amazing captures during our time there, the knowledge you posess on the different species of fish you have and the hard rule that fish health comes before everything else is wonderful to see.

Having fished in various places over the world in the last ten years i have to say that gillhams must be the best venue of its type in the world,the only complaint i can have about my stay with yourselves is the stone ive put on eating the wonderful food in your restaurant,i will have no problems with recomending gillhams to anyone in every way outstanding,looking forward to returning in feb 2010 thanks again for everything and best wishes

Marc pickering

 

Ken Weeks

Hi Stuart Sean and all at Gillhams.

Just a quick line to say thank you for the wonderful time I had at your resort, all your staff and you treated me like a friend and not a paying guest which I loved. I don’t like to pick out individuals but I must say something about your two water boys (guides), they were fantastic. Not only did they look after me superbly, they also treated everyone else with the same degree of professionalism which is a credit to you and I know that you are rightly proud of them.

I wish you and your team all the best,

Ken Weeks.

 

Gavin Kennedy UK

Dear Stuart, Sean & Kevin
I just wanted to write and say thank you for what was a great day at Gillhams Fishery. Given the fact I was on my honeymoon and only able to do the single day it has certainly wet my appetite for a longer return trip in the future. My wife loved the facilities and certainly had a great days fishing, catching three beautiful Siamese carp, which was a first.

It was a pleasure to have Kevin as my guide for the day, great company and very knowledgeable.

I have enclosed a good pic of my day and look forward to fishing on your lake again.

Cheers,
Gavin Kennedy

 

Paul & Sue Swainson UK

OUR DREAM HOLIDAY

After two days in Bangkok we arrived at Krabi airport, where we were met by Sean who took us to Gillhams Fishing Resort, where we were to spend the next 13 days of our vacation. It’s almost impossible to put into words how stunning the place is, on arrival we sat in the restaurant having a drink trying to take it all in. Pictures on the website don’t do the lake or gardens justice, add to this massive fish topping and huge arapaima breaking the surface, it really is an amazing place.

We had booked on the accommodation and breakfast option with fishing paid by the hour so we could take in some of the local sights. I was conscious of the fact that it was Sue’s holiday as much as mine, so this option gave us the flexibility we needed, Stuart also arranged a car for us so we could get about. Well I needn’t have worried about Sue she fell in love with the place as much as I did!

The trips we took in were elephant trekking, jungle trekking, horse riding, Thai cooking class and we also hired Bud and his long boat for a bit of island hopping. All the trips were arranged for us by Benz or Noi and we were picked up, so we only used the car 3 times, choosing to spend our spare time at the resort.

Our bungalow was ideal with everything we needed and what I’d give now to be sitting on the veranda taking in the sights and sounds. The restaurant was very good with a very friendly vibe and the food was excellent, we can highly recommend Steve’s breakfasts and the crab curry. We didn’t have a bad meal. On to the fishing, I did most of my fishing in the mornings and late afternoons, the guides Sean, Kevin and Gollock are really helpful and in no time at all it was like fishing with your close mates.

My aim was to catch as many species as possible and I ended up with 10, leaving me with plenty of scope to return to up the tally. I managed to catch Arapaima, red tail catfish, giant gourami, snakeheads, spotted featherback, java barb, Siamese carp, Pacu, Spotted Sorubim and a striped catfish. The highlights for me were the Gourami hunting, a 40lb+ Red tail off the top and my second Arapaima which went around the 340lb mark, truly dream fishing.

When I mentioned to a friend who knows Stuart that we were going to Gillhams he said that “Stuart would really look after us” he wasn’t wrong.

 

Derek Mallows UK

MY TRIP TO PARADISE!!

WOW just where do I start!! After arriving At Krabi Airport and being Met by Stuart Gillham we then headed off to Gillhams Fishing Resort just outside Krabi via the local Market!! When we arrived at the Venue I just could not believe the Beauty and the surroundings of the Lake at which I was to spend the next two weeks trying to catch the fish of my Dreams!!

The Place is without doubt one of the most stunning looking venues that I have ever set foot on!! And to say that I was blown away by it all would have to be the understatement of the century!!

The trip had been planned for some time and I had 3 Species on my most wanted list!! ( 1 ) was to catch an Arapaima (2) An Amazon Red Tail Catfish and The final one on my list was a Golden Juliens Prize Carp!!

I started Fishing on The Thursday morning after Sean and Gollett had set all my Gear up for me outside My Bungalow!! The Buzz just from casting a Rod out into a lake that holds so many different Species of fish was second to none!! I hooked and lost a couple of Arapaima on that first day but was not to downhearted as Sean & Stuart had already told me that was to be expected with this hard fighting fish!!

Friday 17th October 2008 and I’m up with the lark Hey Ho it just happens to be my Birthday and I’m Feeling Lucky!! after a full English Breakfast Cooked & served by Steve aka Butterbean I struggled to walk back to my Swim!! LOL that afternoon I caught my first fish from Gillhams A PACU which weighed approx 20lbs and gave a very good fight very quick & powerful, The Day was just about drawing to a close when Stuart came along saying to bring My dead/live bait Rod along the bank as he had seen an Arapaima just take a Frog very close to the near Margin!!

With that I hastily moved to where Stu was guiding me!! I cast a dead bait just along the near Margin within under a minute the Float was away and I connected with what felt like a very Big Arapaima The Adrenalin Rush was unbelievable I had the fish on for about 5 mins before he somehow shed the hook!!

Not to be beaten I baited up again and cast slightly further down the margin & within 5 or so Minutes had another fast take!! This fish moved out into open water very fast and was ripping line from the clutch at a speed that I had never witnessed before!! After a 60 meter run I put some steady pressure on the Fish and managed to turn whatever was attached to the hook around!! My knees nearly turned to jelly when I got my first sighting of the fish a really good Amazon Red Tail Catfish after landing the fish for me in the water Sean told me the fish would be over the Magical 40lb mark!! Happy Birthday ” LADDERS” they just don’t get any better that for an Angler!! IMO

Well I went on to catch another 5 or so Red Tails up to 50lbs!!! 5 Arapaima to 170lbs 8 or so Siamese Carp to 45lb Pacu to 20lbs Plus Alligator Gar to 17lbs!! oh and not to forget The 55 kilo Mekong catfish that took me 90 mins to land!!

Many Many thanks go out to Stuart Sean Noi Benz Butterbean for making my trip to Paradise A reality Top Venue Probably the Best in The World!! Back in June 09

 

David and Samantha Gillman UK

We were recommended to Gilham’s by Joe Taylor at J & K Tackle in Bicester and he told us what a great place it was!
Normally when people recommend a place they exaggerate a little, bit but in this case it was far better than we had ever hoped for.

On awakening on our first day there was nothing that could prepare you for the spectacular setting and scenery surrounding the lake; it has matured so much since the photos on the original leaflet.

After breakfast it was down to the nitty gritty of the fishing. Sean and Gollock were our guides for the majority of the 10 days we were there and what a great time we had. Over the 10 days I landed 52 Fish, 31 Siamese carp to about 45lb 1 x Pacu , 1 x Alligator Gar,6 Red tail Catfish to about 35lb , 4 Sorubim to 30lb, 1 Asian Red tail and 7 Arapaima, the highlight being Henry the Arapaima at approx 180Kg (400lb) This just capped off a brilliant holiday.

All the fish caught were in such good condition, this is largely due to the great care and attention that they receive when being unhooked and returned whilst still in the water. A lot was learnt about how to care and look after these fish. Although I did not catch a lot of huge big fish it was just about being there in paradise and getting runs that counted!

Nothing was too much trouble for anybody, if you ran out of water or bait then it was replaced very quickly, Lunch or breakfast could be eaten at your peg. Food in the restaurant was superb with a mix of good old English favorites like Liver, Bacon, Onion Gravy mash & peas, Shepherds pie and a good old Sunday Roast. There was also a good selection of Thai food on offer. Don’t go here expecting to lose weight as the portions were all huge!

In summary it was the best ever fishing holiday I have ever had and I am already looking forward to visiting next year. Samantha and I have made some great new friends and we are very grateful to all the staff, Stuart, Sean, Noi, Steve, Gollock and wok for looking after us and making us so welcome. Thanks Guys.

 

Steve & Diana Keeling Perth Western Australia

Gillhams is actually a world class fishing resort, set amongst stunning scenery and a few minutes away from Krabi town an the tourist “strip” of Au Nang.
We had hired a car in Phuket and thought we would try out the resort where my wife would sit, read and relax whilst I would have a go catching a few fish. We used Gillhams as a base to travel about which was much easier than I thought it would be with excellent roads and light traffic.

I wish now that we had stayed for the whole ten days of our vacation at Gillhams. The accommodation alone was much better value than anything we came across in our travels. The place is brand new with lovely modern chalets set about a magnificent lake and a soaring mountain backdrop.

The food was the best we have had in all our trips about Thailand and we ate with the family. You can have English or Thai food served when you want. They have an English and a Thai chef. A new restaurant is just about to open.

By the way, July is a great time to visit – the weather was good and it is a lot cheaper at this time of year. And I caught BIG fish as well!!

Nothing was too much trouble for Stuart, Benz, Sean and Noi who run the place. You can relax in the magnificent gardens and they will bring you a tea or a beer, handle the laundry and produce a top meal as if by magic.
Sean, Stuart Gillham’s son runs the fishing and has several pets including a Slow Lorris and a Python – not in the same room though! Benz is Stuart’s partner and is a delight, with the typical Thai friendly nature.

She is a very classy lady, so we nicknamed her Mercedes. Noi looks after the housekeeping and everything is absolutely spotless!
We are missing the place already and are busy saving our pennies for next July.
All the best to Stuart and the crew at Gillham’s.

 

Sjoerd Kuiper The Netherlands

Mijn vriendin wilde heel graag op vakantie naar Thailand, maar dat zag ik echt niet zitten. Gelukkig is mijn vriendin slim en bedacht ze een list. Ze typte ‘vissen in Thailand’ in op de Google zoekmachine en ik was meteen verkocht! Onze vakantie zou bestaan uit een maand Thailand, waar we ook ruimte hadden gemaakt om hier en daar te vissen.

Zo zijn we gaan vissen in Chang Mai op twee verschillende locaties. Die waren leuk, maar vielen echt in het niet vergeleken bij Gillhams Fishing Resorts. Per toeval kwamen we via de Thaise Google terecht bij het Gillhams Fishing Resorts. In de ban van de foto’s die op de site stonden hebben we geen moment getwijfeld, ik moest en zou naar het Fishing Resorts gaan. Arapaima here I come!

Wat mijn vriendin en ik gezien hebben op dit schitterende resort is echt bijna onbeschrijvelijk mooi. Ten eerste heb je de prachtige omgeving waarin je je bevind, met de zeer aangenaamde kalmte van ontspanning en die heerlijke rust!! Het hele resort is tot in de detail perfect in elkaar gezet.

Ik heb er vaak over gedroomd om een eigen betaalwater te bouwen met alles erop en eraan, Gillhams Fishing Resorts is beter en mooier dan wat ik in mijn dromen heb kunnen voorstellen. Echt zo goed gedaan; neem de bungalows, daar zal je geen gebreken vinden, perfect!, Niet zoals je in alle andere verblijven in Thailand hebt, of je nou in een resort zit of hotel, er is altijd wel iets niet goed afgewerkt. En dan de Gillhams; super aardige mensen, die houden van het goede leven, ze hebben een goed gevoel voor humor en boeiende verhalen. Het eten op het resort is ook geweldig; Steve en Benz zullen je verrassen met lekkernijen.

Dan het vissen zelf; in het resort is dit ook zo mooi! Je zit lekker met een parasolletje, die elke dag voor je opgezet wordt en een coolbox met koud drinken die steeds maar weer aangevuld wordt. Met andere worden je wordt verwend, en hoe! Je hobby is nog nooit zo relaxed geweest!
Tot je je eerste Mekong Catfish vangt, geloof mij daar ben je wel even zoet mee, ik was er ruim drie uur mee bezig!! Of de Arapiama, zo mooi, deze vis is ongeevenaard!! Wat een schitterende prachtvis!! Zo’n mooie ervaring wat ik hier heb opgedaan is echt nergens anders te vinden, zeker weten. Wij zijn er zes dagen geweest waarvan er vier gevist.

In totaal heb ik een stuk of 18 schitterende vissen weten te vangen: 4 arapiama’s 1 mekong catvis 3 redtail catfish, 3 saiamese carps, 1 julian carp en nog een aantal andere zeldzame vissoorten, je kunt ze zien op de foto’s van de site.
Ga je naar Gillhams Fishing Resorts dan zul je geen moment spijt hebben, mijn woord heb je!
Sjoerd Kuiper, The Netherlands

 

Adam Parker UK

Dear Stuart,

I thought I’d drop you an e-mail just to say thank you for a really enjoyable 2 weeks angling, from the time I arrived you Benz Sean and everyone else involved were great hosts, and could not do enough for us, the food was great the fishing unreal and with the great scenery, comfortable bungalows and lovely weather it really was spot on, the best holiday I’ve had for a long time, no ever! I am returning in January are their any spaces?
Best regards.

Adam Parker. Hairfield Middlesex UK.

 

Gary and Eddy Bunn

Ex pats from Phuket

Hi Stuart & gang

Just wanted to thank you for everything that you did for us when we were with you last week. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and can not thank you enough for the hospitality you showed to us.

You Can be very proud of all you have achieved at your resort it really is a world class venue and the way you treat your guests is second to none. Many thanks once again, we look forward to seeing you all again soon, especially for one of Steve’s breakfasts!! All the best Gary and Eddy Bunn.

 

Hendrik & Anneke The Netherlands

Tijdens een vakantie van 2 jaar geleden ontmoeten wij Stuart die vertelde dat hij een fishing resort wou realiseren in Krabi we wensten hem het allerbeste en zouden hem in de gaten houden met zijn vorderingen.

Toen we al surfend op zijn site terecht kwamen zagen we zijn visparadijs ons toelachen we werden steeds enthousiaster en konden het niet meer uit ons hoofd zetten dus vlucht geboekt Stuart gemaild en op naar Krabi. Hier kwamen wij aan in de haven waar Stuart al stond te wachten met Benz. (zij kookte overheerlijk).

Nadat we wat bijgekomen waren van de lange reis konden we beginnen met vissen. Collock onze gids had inmiddels al het materiaal en aas al klaar gezet, we waren al snel aan het drillen. De eerste siamese karper lag binnen een half uur al in het net. Bij deze bleef het niet.

‘S avonds was het gezellig en lekker eten met de rest van de hengelaars. En daarna slapen in onze spiksplinternieuwe bungalow.

De volgende dagen vingen we andere vissoorten waaronder de Alligator gar, Spotted Sorubim en verspeelden we een Arapaima.

Het is dat we nog meer van Thailand moesten zien anders waren we de rest van de vakantie gebleven.

Een ieder die denkt aan een visvakantie in het buitenland moet gewoon naar Gillham gaan.

 

Darren UK

Well, where do I start!!!
Thanking Stuart, Shaun, Steve the Super chef, Gollock and everyone else who made our holiday/fishing trip more than a dream come true. From the fishing to the food they served up for us, nothing was too much trouble. Home from home cooking nearly better than my lovely wives LOL.

The view from our accommodation just didn’t do the web site justice. The pool came to our rescue in the red hot mid day sun.

I’ve been on some great fishing holidays but none of them can compare to this one. This trip left me nothing but admiration for Stuart and his Crew. It’s amazing how Stuart turned this into a fishery a dream location to fish in. As for the fish you catch, every single one of them left me speechless and excited.

Another thing I have got to say is how they treat the fish you catch. They treat it with 100% care.

I hooked the bottom of the lake bed and Gollock, one of Stuart’s helpers, dived into the water to go and retrieve the tackle. It came back all in one piece.

I can’t thank everyone enough for making my dream come true and can’t wait to see you soon again.

Darren, Tracy & Bump

 

Wil The Netherlands

Toen wij Stuart bij de haven van Krabi ontmoeten hadden we daarvoor alleen telefonisch contact met hem gehad. We hadden dan ook geen idee hoe zijn Fishing Resort eruit zou zien. Het klikte meteen met Stuart. Na een ritje van een half uur kwamen we aan bij prachtige meer met 8 schitterende bungalows eromheen. Mooi ingericht met ieder twee slaapkamers. Sean, de zoon van Stuart had ondertussen al alles voor ons klaargezet om te kunnen vissen.

Het is allemaal goed verzorgd. Er staan rodpods met beetverklikkers en de hengels en molens zijn van prima kwaliteit. Ook ontbreken de stoeltjes, een parasol en koude drankjes in de koelbox niet. Alles is echt tot in de puntjes verzorgd. Het vissen kon voor Wil beginnen. Dat het ons beviel was wel duidelijk want de 2 a 3 dagen die we oorspronkelijk hadden gepland om hier te vissen, werden er uiteindelijk 12. Wil was niet alleen erg tevreden met de grote aantallen en verschillende soorten vis die hij ving, maar ook hoe de staf de vissen en ons behandelden.

Dit heeft hij in zijn visreizen in de wereld wel anders gezien. Volgens Wil, is dit een van de mooiste visplekken op de wereld en de kans is groot dat je hier de vis van je leven vangt. Hij zwemt er in ieder geval wel rond.
Wil ving oa. een Airapama van 65 kg en een van 90 kg. Daarnaast ving hij Aligatorgars, Redtails, Pacu’s, Thaise Catfish, Rahoe en Julian. Ook voor niet-vissers is het bij Gillhams Fishing Resorts prima vertoeven. We komen dan ook zeker terug.

 

Alan England

I have recently returned from a holiday in Thailand and, whilst there, I took time out to spend some fishing time at Stuart’s lovely lake in Krabi. I booked the whole thing a few weeks prior to flying over on the 20th March, having spotted the write-up and photographs on www.gillhamsfishingresorts.com

I am, by no stretch of the imagination, a top-notch fisherman – rather a run-of-the-mill pleasure angler, who likes to take in a bit of the local fishing action whilst on holiday. Previously, I have only ever fished on the sea when visiting Thailand and I thought it was time for a change. Stuart’s place looked a picture on the web-site and after arriving, I can say I was far from disappointed.

The lake was stunning
– well, more correctly the lake and surrounding area was absolutely stunning. Stuart could not have picked a more picturesque setting for his project and, after I arrived I found myself just looking around at the place, simply in awe of my surroundings.

I have never met any of the guys before, but Stuart, Steve and Sean made me feel most welcome, even though it was very early in the morning. Stuart’s son, Sean, was to be my personal guide for the day and having got the welcomes and introductions out of the way, I was shown to my ‘peg’, where there were 2 rods set up ready for action. The baits ranged from maize (for the veggies) to dead bait, to small live bait. I made myself comfortable and Sean loaded up the rods and launched the baits out into the early morning mist – while I just took in the splendor of my surroundings.

There was a huge limestone mountain to my left, shrouded with a layer of mist/cloud that had ‘mystery’ written all over it – the birds were into their early morning chorus and the various crickets and frogs made for quite an ensemble of sound – only broken by the occasional fish ‘topping’.

When I say ‘topping’, that is somewhat of an underestimation, as my first sight, of an Arapaima rolling on the surface, after having taken a gulp of air, was quite spectacular. Of course, this spectacular sight was quickly followed by the realization that there was a distinct possibility that I could be actually battling with one of these prehistoric-looking beauties. Now, I couldn’t possibly be THAT lucky on my first ever trip, now could I?
………Could I?

My main aim for the day was to come take a look at the place and take in it’s beauty and, by the end of the day, if I’d caught nothing, I could go home happy because I’d been there and at least seen the place! Well, I was soon to be presented with my first ‘bonus’ when one of the reels screamed, as line shot away at a rate of knots.

A good firm strike and I was into something substantial (by my normal standards, anyway). What a scrap – the power of the fish was only too evident as the butt of the rod was rammed into my groin and it felt as if it was trying to penetrate my body! After quite some struggle, the fish was netted and I was the proud captor of a red-tailed catfish, of approximately 40lbs.

An absolutely stunning fish – photographs were quickly taken and the fish returned to the water without any problem. Now – surely that was that – I was one happy fisherman (albeit with an aching shoulder, arm and painful groin). No – that wasn’t quite it at all. After losing one or two fish when the hook hold gave, my next capture was an even weirder fish than the first – an Alligator Gar (a fish of about 20lbs) with a set of teeth that you do not want your fingers to be anywhere near!

After that, with the rising of the sun and the subsequent raising of the temperature, the action slowed down, which was a good thing really as it gave me time have a right good ‘chin-wag’ with both Stuart and Sean. Stuart described the steps he’d gone through in creating his piece of heaven and some the trials and tribulations they’d had to endure along the way. I just couldn’t get enough. I take my hat off to the man and his team, for creating a simply stunning fishy wonderland.

I’ll finish my little story with the best part. I was quite literally half an hour from leaving the place and I was just explaining to Sean that, despite me losing what felt to me like some very big fish, I had had a simply wonderful day and that fishing back home would simply never be the same again, when I hears Stuart shout from his bungalow behind us – “your float’s gone” after which Sean, as quick as a flash was striking into a fish, and then quickly handing the rod to me. What followed is simply something I find hard putting into words.

The fight was monumental and the power of whatever the fish was was to be respected in no uncertain terms. It was only when the fish came up in the water and eventually half leapt out giving a violent shake of its head, that we saw I was into a very large Arapaima.

My legs went to jelly at that point and my heart felt as though it was about to burst through my chest. Still, there wasn’t time for a heart attack. The fish stormed off to the right and then to the left, it tried to knock the line with it’s tail, it seemed to even play ‘dead’ some of the time and just when you thought you were winning, it would storm off again with even more force than before.

What a beast of a fish these are and for anyone out there like me, just always wondered what it would be like to catch a ‘fish like that’, when watching Matt Hayes or John Wilson doing simply that on those wonderful fishing programme’s on Sky TV, I would advise to get yourselves to Stuart’s place and see for yourselves!

Back to the scrap – and it was nearing its conclusion, but there was still time for one last attempt at airborne acrobatics. That was about it and all that was left was for Sean, Stuart and Kevin (who was there on holiday, like me) to get in the water and prepare to ‘cage’ the fish. The cage is a home-made device for landing big fish such as these and, if you can imagine a coffin with the lid off and the sides made out of mesh rather than wood, you have the picture.

The fish was led into the cage and the cage rolled, so the open end was out of the water, and she was in and captured. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry!

The fish was estimated by Stuart (and he should know) to be in the order of 150kgs (yes, kgs – not lbs). An absolute beast of a fish and it was a pleasure and a privilege to get into the water and be alongside such an animal – never mind have my photograph taken with it!

My thanks and best wishes go to Stuart, Sean and the team, without whose help, I would never have caught such a magnificent creature.

The lads have made one old man very happy and the fish made one happy man even older!!!

Many Regards
Alan Jones Doncaster South Yorkshire England.

 

Daniel Cox UK

My fishing friend Dave and I booked for the Gillhams resort for 5 days with our partners, we stayed for 13 days! We have fished many different places around the globe but this one is certainly tops, first class tackle with experts on hand to assist you to the level you require, fantastic food, accommodation, stunning location and loads of different big fish, some 3 times bigger than me.

No picture will ever do this resort justice. The girls never ran out of things to do and enjoyed the stay as much as us.
With such a warm welcome by all the staff, especially as it was Christmas we felt like part of the family.
Next Christmas is already booked. Thanks to you all for the best holiday ever.

 

Peter Lyons Thailand

Being a resident of Phuket and a fisherman I was exited to learn of Gillhams fishery and the potential specimens to be caught there. The 3 hour journey is a pleasure from Phuket, easy driving and outstanding scenery. Stuart Gillhams map meant a prompt arrival and we were soon fishing.

The 4 anglers that went that first time all enjoyed success beyond expectations, my own catch included fish up to 80 kgs, my friends equally happy with the quality of fishing. I have returned a number of times and have always had fish. The most memorable occasion was when I invited my good friend, former world match fishing champion, Dave Roper of Preston; Dave caught an arapaima of 150kgs, what a fish. Dave as you can imagine was “gob smacked” to catch such a monster fish.

Like all of Stuarts fish it was in perfect condition and slowly swam away to make somebody else day in the future. The facilities at Gillhams are second to none, well equipped bungalows by the water, new restaurant and bar all add to the general enjoyment. I am fortunate that I can visit on a regular basis, I feel very lucky.
Peter Lyons

 

Paul & Dean UK

Hi Stuart.

Just a few lines to say how much we enjoyed ourselves. The fishing was out of this world.

We came hoping to catch maybe a 50lb arapaima if we were lucky. Within the first two hours fishing we caught a 70kg arapaima which totally blew our minds with the size and beauty of the fish but it got better and better. After four days fishing we caught 5 arapaima’s, each up to 100kg, also red tail catfish 50 lb + Siamese carp 45lb+, Julian’s golden prize carp, pacu, alligator gar, chao phraya. All these fish were in perfect condition.

You can see why when you watch how Stuart & Sean with their team take upmost care of the fish especially Golock. Stuart, Benz, Sean and family were very professional but down to earth and made us feel at home. The accommodation is first class, the best we found in Thailand and the scenery is breathtaking A big thanks to (Steven) for the lovely food he as got to stop eating all the leftovers ha ha! If we had any advise to people travelling to fish Gillhams it would be don’t bother taking tackle half way round the world.

We had 20kg each of tackle with us and did not even get it out of the case. The rods and reels they have for the fisherman to use are perfect for the job and a pleasure to use. A big thanks for making our dreams come true.

PS.
Thanks for the trust you showed in us, that meant a lot.
Paul & Dean

 

Peter Langstraat The Netherlands

Van 29/2 tot 1/4 totaal 32 dagen gevist in het meer van Gillhams Resorts. Resultaat: 45 Siamese karpers, 3 Juliennes Golden Price karpers, 1 Indiase karper, 1 Schubkarper, 1 Graskarper. Verder 15 Pacu’s, 5 Gourami’s en aan roofvissen 12 Arapaima’s, 11 Roodstaart Meervallen, 1 Aziatische Roodstaart, 1 Roofmeerval, 3 Snakeheads en nog een aantal kleinere vissoorten.

De minimummaat van de meeste vissoorten is 10 kg, maxima voor bijv. de Siamese karper en Arapaima lopen op tot respectievelijk 70 kg en 160 kg. Behalve uitstekende vangst ook goede service en lekker en veilig eten, en zowel Thaise als Europese keuken. Ik kan eenieder aanraden op zijn minst eenmaal te gaan vissen in Gillhams Resorts.

 

Dave Roper UK

Having fished all over Europe, not only in world championships but pleasure fishing too. I have never had such an experience as fishing at Gillhams.

Personally I thought there might be a chance of landing a fish that could be over 100 lbs which would have been in its own right easily a personal best but to catch a fish of 150 kgs, approx 320 lbs, can only be described as a dream come true, on a parallel with becoming world champion match angler when fishing for England in 1985. To be sure early next year we will be back.

 

Joe Taylor UK

Stuart Gillham with his family and team has created a paradise resort as well as a most fantastic fishing venue. The views are absolutely stunning, the fish are huge and most days feed well. Stuart has a good team with his son Sean and his partner Benz plus his very able guides. I cannot recommend this family resort and the fishing any more highly. More than anywhere else I have been in the world it’s fantastic, so is the family atmosphere. Give it a try you will not be disappointed and like me and my friends you will return again and again.

 

John Deakin Spain

Thank you for sorting me out a great deal to allow me to fish your water.

I think your place is fantastic and I have fished around the world in several places but I think your resort is right up there with the best with your good organization and fantastic location.

Cheers, Orange John (guide for catmaster tours)

 

Dave Negus UK

I have just returned from holiday in Phuket Thailand. During my visit we met up with my stepdaughter and her Partner who are travelling the world for ten months. Dan, my stepdaughters Partner immediately thrust into my hand a flyer for a fishing resort in Krabi owned by Gillhams. He said he had been given this by a guy he had met in Singapore who runs a Cat fishing business on the River Ebro in Spain. He had been fishing their and said what a fantastic place it was and we must go. I read the flyer and we could not believe the size of fish that were present in this beautiful man made 9 acre Lake.

We decided we must go and fish this place. The drive was approx 200 kilometers and not practical for 1 day so we agreed to fish for 2 days with an overnight stay. We duly hired a car and set off for Krabi, when I say car I mean a bone shaker of a Suzuki jeep, not the most comfortable mode of transport but cheap. It took us nearly three hours from Phuket as we were at the far end of the island.

On arrival at Gillhams fishing resorts, Sean, the owners son, was there to meet us. He is a fantastic guy and welcomed us with a hand shake and a cold beer. He showed us to our accommodation and we were pleasantly surprised as this was a newly built bungalow overlooking the Lake. Within half an hour he set us up with 10ft 6lb test curve free spirit Catfish rods and Shimano Big Pit reels loaded with 45lb Mono. I am a Carp fisherman and have fished for over 50 years so the tackle is familiar but much heavier, my personal best being a 27lb mirror Carp.

We decided to fish for predator fish with deadbaits. I cast out both rods and sat with anticipation as fish of huge proportions were crashing about in the lake. I didn’t have to wait long, less than 3 hours and my left hand alarm screamed and baitrunner churned, I struck into the fish and the rod arched over the fish ran and the clutch screamed, I could tell I was latched on to a sizeable fish it ran for about 100yds and then I slowly coxed it back, I still didn’t realize what I was hooked into. I told Dan to video the events as I realized this was a large fish, then it surfaced and we saw it.. a huge Arapaima.

I couldn’t believe it, this has to be only a dream for an ordinary Angler like me, all the time I was saying in my head don’t come off, the fight that ensued lasted for about 30 minutes and eventually Sean grabbed the leader and after 3 attempts gently coxed the fish into the huge cage net. There it lay an Arapaima and there I stood totally awe struck the biggest fish I had ever seen let alone caught I can only describe the feeling that someone must feel when they have won the Lottery.

Unfortunately they can’t weigh Arapaima as it could kill them but Sean estimated it at 150kg that’s 330lbs I will remember that day for the rest of my life.

My thanks to Sean for his help in the capture and his hospitality throughout our stay.

My thanks to Dan for the video footage and persuading me to go.

Picture enclosed. Left to right, guide, me in sunglasses, Dan, Sean.

 

Keith Purton Hong Kong

I can in all honesty thoroughly recommend Gillham’s Fishing Resort. Huge fish, stunning scenery, top quality tackle, expert fishing advice, superb food, and spacious well appointed bungalows make this place a must-try freshwater angling destination.

 

Gareth Medley & Vicky Porleons UK

Well where do I start? The beginning I guess…A good friend of mine returned after one month from ‘this place in Thailand’ and would not shut up about it. On seeing the photo’s that followed after his return I could see why. With 2 weeks work holiday remaining and my girlfriends birthday looming I put 2 and 2 together and made a holiday we would not forget. A few phone calls to the ever helpful and always accommodating Stuart Gillham calmed any doubt that we were in for a real treat. Luckily I was able to meet the voice on the end of the phone in the UK, just one day before we flew out to Krabi. I sat very smug at one of Stuart’s informative and entertaining presentations, knowing that the next day I would be at his resort. Arriving at Krabi airport, full of excitement and anxiety, we met a true gent, Steve, who took our tired legs to the resort. Reassuring it was to meet an ex-pat, with a smiling face and warm heart.

We arrived at the resort under darkness to be welcomed into the main house and ushered to the table where the best Thai food we have ever eaten was waiting for us. Stuart’s wife Benz for the record is the most fantastic cook. That night we did what any true Brits should do on their first night on holiday……….drink. Welcoming in Vicky’s birthday in true style, we drank until the early hours, conversation punctuated by the rather abrupt splashes of unknown fish of unknown size. I won’t make you jealous with the details of how we spent our 2 weeks in paradise.

But in short, the Gillham’s were the most fantastic hosts. Vicky’s birthday was a romantic meal with cake and flowers, laid on our private balcony for the two of us. Attention to detail…….second to none.The day trips….. Out of this world. A private long tail boat trip to an uninhabited island. Hot spring dipping and elephant trekking, an afternoon spent learning to cook Thai food in Krabi. An epic trek up to the tiger temple, but totally rewarding. In essence, what ever you want to do………it can be arranged. Oh and if you really want to spoil it all…….there is the fishing.

My first day was rewarded by a hard earned 50kg arapaima. The following days are a blur of golden carp, Siamese, pacu, and gar. Suddenly I am attached to a Mekong catfish at dusk, an hour later my veins are pumping battery acid and my arm is weak, but a ‘small’ Mekong at 82lbs is mine. I wanted a red tail, and sure enough on the second to last day I was rewarded my efforts. Two in an hour left me happy, but as that buzzer melted into the darkness, I hooked and landed the lake record red tail at 65lb. If you work at your fishing, you will be rewarded.

Retiring once again to five star accommodation, I reached for the mini bar to begin early celebrations of my captures each day.Like all things, they must end. Solemnly and reluctantly we boarded the plane away from a place where time doesn’t seem to matter. We left the resort having made so many friends. Sean Gillham very quickly became a very close friend. His manner and humor guaranteed to lift the sprits when it mattered. Steve, our breakfast buddy, always on hand to line to stomach of hungry souls. Stuart….the boss, his dream became a reality, now experience his dream!
If you have read all this and have not already booked your place DO IT. I am a born skeptic; can a place really be this good? The answer is YES, GO! OR DIE WONDERING.