Bass Fishing Guide Service in Lake Biwa
「Japan Bass Fishing Agent」

We offer private bass fishing guide charters on Lake Biwa, designed especially for international guests.
Our goal is to give you one of the most relaxing and memorable days of your trip to Japan.

Every trip is personalized and includes free rental tackle, an English-speaking guide, and round-trip transportation from Kyoto City.

You can choose a full-day or half-day charter, or combine bass fishing with sightseeing. Depending on the season, we can also arrange photo or scenic cruises, such as cherry blossoms in spring or autumn foliage.

Pickup & tackle included / Kyoto round-trip / Simple pricing

Google Reviews

5.0
Based on 55 reviews
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FamLee Life profile picture
FamLee Life
04:51 06 Mar 26
Incredible time on the water. Asano was a true master and incredible guide. Really patient and helped get me out of snags. Great instructor and his knowledge of the bass and the lake is admirable. We fished some tough weather conditions, but Asano helped us land some in our 2 days with him!
Steve Choate profile picture
Steve Choate
06:31 05 Mar 26
We went fishing today with Kazu on Lake Biwa which was fantastic, he organised everything and made the day really memorable. Highly recommend 🐟🎣
Jeffrey Davis profile picture
Jeffrey Davis
02:19 02 Mar 26
I had a quick half day trip with Kazu. I traveled from America with one goal in mind... Catch 1 Lake Biwa bass. I have fished professionally all over the United States but I have never caught a bass in another country. Well in 3 hours we did just that thanks to Kazu. My wife caught her personal best largemouth which was over 7 pounds! I also caught a good size Lake Biwa bass so we accomplished our goals. Kazu picked us up from the train station and after the trip took us to a local tackle shop where I bought some gear to take home with me. We thought this was an amazing incentive to book with them. Kazu also speaks English fairly well. When we couldn't quite understand each other we just used Google translate on our phones. We plan to visit Japan every couple of years and each time we do, we'll call these guys to go fishing on Lake Biwa. Next time we'll dedicated more than 3 hours to the lake. We look forward to seeing you guys again soon!
Guy Dickson profile picture
Guy Dickson
05:30 25 Feb 26
I had a great full day charter on Lake Biwa with Kazuya, tough conditions with the season and lots of boats on the water with it being a holiday but he knew the right spot without pressure and I caught my first ever largemouth, they offer a great service with transport picking up and dropping me off afterwards wherever I needed. Communication was constant through email and although Kazuya worked hard to understand my Australian accent, I understood everything clearly and his passion for fishing is evident, thankyou Japan Bass Fishing Agent,
K J profile picture
K J
06:24 17 Jan 26
Had a fantastic day with an amazing guide. Managed to catch a couple of bass in the middle of winter with help from some expert knowledge. Great equipment and awesome boat too ! Very highly recommended.
Tyler Olson profile picture
Tyler Olson
10:10 02 Jan 26
My two sons and I booked a half day charter in late December with Asano and had a fantastic experience. He picked us up and dropped us back off at our rental in Kyoto which made the excursion extremely easy. He was a fantastic host and put us into some great fishing spots. His boat and gear were all top notch. Even if you've never fished, he'll set you up and show you what to do. The lake and the scenery around Oki Island where we fished was amazing and would be worth the trip even if you just wanted to hang out on the boat and enjoy the scenery with the anglers in your group . This was a unique experience during our Kyoto trip and I would recommend it to anyone visiting the area. Dress warmly!
Samuel Kohler profile picture
Samuel Kohler
01:03 18 Dec 25
I had an exceptional time fishing with this bass fishing guiding company. I reached out for a short-notice full day trip in December and they were extremely accommodating to me and my inquiry. The booking process was seamless and super easy. My guide Kazuya was amazing, he was extremely experienced in knowing the lake and how to target the largemouth bass for the time of year we were fishing. We fished multiple different set ups and all of the gear was in pristine condition. I couldn’t recommend this guiding service more to anyone who is looking for a great day of bass fishing whether you are an experienced fisherman or a first timer. This was by far one of my favorite experiences in Japan during my three week stay and will definitely be coming back to fish with them again in the future!
Nolan Bird profile picture
Nolan Bird
12:01 17 Oct 25
First time to Japan and found this charter company great pricing for two people on the water all day! They pick you up from your hotel and take you to the boat, if you haven’t eaten they give you the opportunity too, and they know all the spots from our first to last cast we were getting hits I’ve never experienced bass fishing like this our guide Toshi was on it I cannot say enough nice things about this experience!
Sikai Wang profile picture
Sikai Wang
23:39 11 Oct 25
We had an amazing day on Lake Biwa with Tsuntsun! Everything from the communication before the trip to the arrangements on the day was smooth and professional. Tsuntsun was extremely knowledgeable about Biwa Lake waypoints as well as related techniques, and he worked hard to make sure we had a great experience. (Great bass boat driver!!!)

Even as visitors from abroad, we felt very welcomed he patiently explained everything and shared a lot about local fishing culture and the lake itself. We caught some great fish and learned a lot along the way.

Highly recommend this guide to anyone looking for an authentic and enjoyable Lake Biwa fishing experience. Definitely worth it!
Marcus profile picture
Marcus
05:30 07 Oct 25
I was lucky enough to spend a day on Lake Biwa with Asano back in June. The scenery alone out on the lake was amazing, and he was able to get us onto some good bass as well! He's very knowledgeable and speaks great English (my Japanese isn't what it could be!). Highly recommended!

Bass Fishing Guide Service in Lake Biwa
「Japan Bass Fishing Agent」

We offer private bass fishing guide charters on Lake Biwa, designed especially for international guests.
Our goal is to give you one of the most relaxing and memorable days of your trip to Japan.

Every trip is personalized and includes free rental tackle, an English-speaking guide, and round-trip transportation from Kyoto City.

You can choose a full-day or half-day charter, or combine bass fishing with sightseeing. Depending on the season, we can also arrange photo or scenic cruises, such as cherry blossoms in spring or autumn foliage.

Pickup & tackle included / Kyoto round-trip / Simple pricing

1、Bass Fishing Guide tours for beginners and experienced anglers

・Rental tackle and lectures for beginners
・Experienced professional guides will take you to the best fishing spots
・Comfortable fishing trips on the largest bass boats

You can enjoy bass fishing to the fullest amidst magnificent scenery.

The average size considered big for largemouth bass in Lake Biwa is 4 to 5 pounds (about 1.8 to 2.3 kg), but especially in spring and winter, it’s possible to target fish exceeding 10 pounds (about 4.5 kg).
Our guest’s PB was 11lb, caught in February.

While fishing with us, you can learn about and use the latest cutting edge Japanese fishing techniques.
From finesse fishing to swimbaits you can learn about how Japanese anglers utilize these techniques.

1、Bass Fishing Guide tours for beginners and experienced anglers

・Rental tackle and lectures for beginners
・Experienced professional guides will take you to the best fishing spots
・Comfortable fishing trips on the largest bass boats

You can enjoy bass fishing to the fullest amidst magnificent scenery.

The average size considered big for largemouth bass in Lake Biwa is 4 to 5 pounds (about 1.8 to 2.3 kg), but especially in spring and winter, it’s possible to target fish exceeding 10 pounds (about 4.5 kg).
Our guest’s PB was 11lb, caught in February.

While fishing with us, you can learn about and use the latest cutting edge Japanese fishing techniques.
From finesse fishing to swimbaits you can learn about how Japanese anglers utilize these techniques.

2、Available English Speaking & Simple Online Booking System

・Communication prior to guided fishing trips can be conducted in English. Our guides speak basic English.
・Reservations are made by simply filling out a form, and international credit card payment is accepted
・Simple pricing

2、Available English Speaking & Simple Online Booking System

・Communication prior to guided fishing trips can be conducted in English. Our guides speak basic English.
・Reservations are made by simply filling out a form, and international credit card payment is accepted
・Simple pricing

3、A One-of-a-Kind Bass Fishing Adventure in Lake Biwa’s Stunning Natural Wonderland

・Enjoy bass fishing in a magnificent scenery
・Chasing a world-record class bass
・Enjoy fishing in places that can only be reached by charter boat

There are some wonderful scenery around Lake Biwa.

Enjoy a personalized lake trip just for you with bass boat.

For example
・Cherry blossom viewing (Spring)
・lake swimming from a boat (Summer)
・mountain foliage from the lake (Autumn)
・beautiful snowy mountains(Winter)

And then, you can enjoy fishing behind unique view of “Oki no Shiraishi” and “Takeshima”.

3、A One-of-a-Kind Bass Fishing Adventure in Lake Biwa’s Stunning Natural Wonderland

・Enjoy bass fishing in a magnificent scenery
・Chasing a world-record class bass
・Enjoy fishing in places that can only be reached by charter boat

There are some wonderful scenery around Lake Biwa.

Enjoy a personalized lake trip just for you with bass boat.

For example
・Cherry blossom viewing (Spring)
・lake swimming from a boat (Summer)
・mountain foliage from the lake (Autumn)
・beautiful snowy mountains(Winter)

And then, you can enjoy fishing behind unique view of “Oki no Shiraishi” and “Takeshima”.

4、Close to Kyoto Area & Including Transportation

・It takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour from Kyoto to the starting spot, you can enjoy a day trip
・Guide fee includes transportation to hotel or Kyoto station
・Fishing tackle shop tours offered to those who wish

If you’re wondering where to stay around Lake Biwa, you might find this article helpful.

4、Close to Kyoto Area & Including Transportation

・It takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour from Kyoto to the starting spot, you can enjoy a day trip
・Guide fee includes transportation to hotel or Kyoto station
・Fishing tackle shop tours offered to those who wish

If you’re wondering where to stay around Lake Biwa, you might find this article helpful.

Guide Price
Private charter boat price (not per person). Up to 3 guests on 1 boat

It takes 30 minutes to 1 hour from hotels around Kyoto to the marina. (depending on traffic conditions).

Includes pick up and drop off to your hotels and train stations around Kyoto

You can pay by credit card only. (Brand:VISA, Master Card, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, DISCOVER)

The guide fee includes the following
・Fishing guide service
・Transportation from the hotel (designated location) to the boatyard
・Gasoline for the boat
・Insurance
・Tackle rental (including reel, rod and lure)
・Life vests

Not included in the guide fee
・Accommodation
・Meals

Detailed requests can be accept, so please inquire at the time of reservation.
Reservations for 4 or more persons are available.
It is necessary to prepare more than two boats, so please contact us.

Terms of Use

Show more details

Please note that a cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made by the guest.
As a general rule, no cancellation fee will be charged up to four days prior to the reserved date.
Please contact us as soon as possible if you are unable to make it.
In the event of a schedule change, as a rule, no cancellation fee will be charged.
We ask for your cooperation in rescheduling as much as possible.

・2 or 3 days before the reserved date: 50% of the guide fee

・1 day before the reserved date: 75% of the guide fee

・Cancellation on the reserved day or no-show: 100% of the guide fee


Cancellation due to bad weather
Because Lake Biwa is vast and deep, the lake often becomes rough.
Therefore, we may have no choice but to cancel the tour.
In such cases, we will consult with you in advance.
Also, please understand that we may have to cancel the tour in the middle of the trip if the lake conditions worsen after the boat has departed.

If the tour is cancelled after departure, the following fees will apply.

・Within 2 hours after departure: 30% of the guide fee

・Within 2-4 hours after departure: 50% of the guide fee

・Within 4 to 6 hours after departure: 75% of the guide’s fee

・After 6 hours after departure: 100% of the guide fee


Fishing Results
The guide will do us best to catch the fish, but please understand that the guides may not be able to meet your expectations due to the nature of the sport.
Please understand that we will not refund or reduce the fee due to fishing results.

Compensation for accidents during guiding
We take all possible precautions in our work, but in the event of an accident, we will respond within the scope of the pleasure boat insurance stipulated in the Law Concerning the Proper Operation of Pleasure Fishing Boats.
We will not compensate for any injury or accident caused by your own carelessness, or for any damage, theft, loss, or submergence of your property.

We ask for your understanding and cooperation so that we can continue to provide guide services for many years to come.

Guide Price
Private charter boat price (not per person).
Up to 3 guests on 1 boat

It takes 30 minutes to 1 hour from hotels around Kyoto to the marina. (depending on traffic conditions).

Includes pick up and drop off to your hotels and train stations around Kyoto.

You can pay by credit card only. (Brand:VISA, Master Card, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, DISCOVER)

The guide fee includes the following
・Fishing guide service
・Transportation from the hotel (designated location) to the boatyard
・Gasoline for the boat
・Insurance
・Tackle rental (including reel, rod and lure)
・Life vests

Not included in the guide fee
・Accommodation
・Meals

Detailed requests can be accept, so please inquire at the time of reservation.
Reservations for 4 or more persons are available.
It is necessary to prepare more than two boats, so please contact us.

Terms of Use

Show more details

Please note that a cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made by the guest.
As a general rule, no cancellation fee will be charged up to four days prior to the reserved date.
Please contact us as soon as possible if you are unable to make it.
In the event of a schedule change, as a rule, no cancellation fee will be charged.
We ask for your cooperation in rescheduling as much as possible.

・2 or 3 days before the reserved date: 50% of the guide fee

・1 day before the reserved date: 75% of the guide fee

・Cancellation on the reserved day or no-show: 100% of the guide fee


Cancellation due to bad weather
Because Lake Biwa is vast and deep, the lake often becomes rough.
Therefore, we may have no choice but to cancel the tour.
In such cases, we will consult with you in advance.
Also, please understand that we may have to cancel the tour in the middle of the trip if the lake conditions worsen after the boat has departed.

If the tour is cancelled after departure, the following fees will apply.

・Within 2 hours after departure: 30% of the guide fee

・Within 2-4 hours after departure: 50% of the guide fee

・Within 4 to 6 hours after departure: 75% of the guide’s fee

・After 6 hours after departure: 100% of the guide fee


Fishing Results
The guide will do us best to catch the fish, but please understand that the guides may not be able to meet your expectations due to the nature of the sport.
Please understand that we will not refund or reduce the fee due to fishing results.

Compensation for accidents during guiding
We take all possible precautions in our work, but in the event of an accident, we will respond within the scope of the pleasure boat insurance stipulated in the Law Concerning the Proper Operation of Pleasure Fishing Boats.
We will not compensate for any injury or accident caused by your own carelessness, or for any damage, theft, loss, or submergence of your property.

We ask for your understanding and cooperation so that we can continue to provide guide services for many years to come.

How to make a reservation

Tap on the “Book Now” button to make your reservation.

STEP1

Booking

Contact us through the reservation form by clicking on the Book button on the right side of the screen.
If you have any requests, please fill out the form.

STEP2

Online Payment

We will reply with the availability of your preferred date.
Please click on the URL in the e-mail to make a payment and confirm your reservation.

STEP3

Meeting on E-mail

We will discuss your preferred meeting time at that day and any other requests you may have.

STEP4

Go Fishing

Pick you up at the meeting point and let’s go fishing.

※Please read the Terms of use carefully before making a reservation.

FAQ

1, Do you have rental tackles?

Yes, we have rental tackles without additional fees.

2, Could you pick up and drop off hotel or train station?

Of course.
All service charges are included in the price.

3, Can a beginner who has never fished for bass enjoy it?

Absolutely.
Especially from May to November, it is easy to catch fish and even first-time fisherman can enjoy fishing.

4, Are the prices per person or per boat?

The prices are per boat, not per person.

5, Can I make a last minute reservation?

Of course it is possible.
We have many affiliated guides, so we will do our best to accommodate even last-minute reservations.

6, Do you have any recommendations for accommodations?

Yes.
I will teach the best accommodations for you.
Please ask me on e-mail.

7, Is it possible to have a guide just for a tour of the fishing tackle stores?

It is possible.
For more information, including fees, please contact us at contact@japanbassfishingagent.com

Areas served are Kyoto, Osaka, Shiga, Hyogo, and Nara.
For other areas, separate consultation is required, but may be possible in some cases.

8, How do I make a reservation?

1、Fill in the required information on Make a reservation page and send it.

2、And then, make payment from the payment link in the reply e-mail.

3、After the payment is completed, you will receive a receipt and your reservation will be confirmed.

9, How many people can you guide us?

The maximum number of guests allowed on one boat at a time is 3, but we can guide as many people as you wish if we arrange additional boats.

Watch a video guide showing the daily schedule

How to make a reservation

Tap on the “Book Now” button to make your reservation.

STEP1

Booking

Contact us through the reservation form by clicking on the Book button on the right side of the screen.

If you have any requests, please fill out the form.

STEP2

Online Payment

We will reply with the availability of your preferred date.

Please click on the URL in the e-mail to make a payment and confirm your reservation.

You can pay by credit card online before your trip.

STEP3

Meeting on E-mail

We will discuss your preferred meeting time at that day and any other requests you may have.

STEP4

Go Fishing

Pick you up at the meeting point and let’s go fishing.

※Please read the Terms of use carefully before making a reservation.

FAQ

1, Do you have rental tackles?

Yes, we have rental tackles without additional fees.

2, Could you pick up and drop off hotel or train station?

Of course.
All service charges are included in the price.

3, Can a beginner who has never fished for bass enjoy it?

Absolutely.
Especially from May to November, it is easy to catch fish and even first-time fisherman can enjoy fishing.

4, Are the prices per person or per boat?

The prices are per boat, not per person.

5, Can I make a last minute reservation?

Of course it is possible.
We have many affiliated guides, so we will do our best to accommodate even last-minute reservations.

6, Do you have any recommendations for accommodations?

Yes.
I will teach the best accommodations for you.
Please ask me on e-mail.

7, Is it possible to have a guide just for a tour of the fishing tackle stores?

It is possible.
For more information, including fees, please contact us at contact@japanbassfishingagent.com

Areas served are Kyoto, Osaka, Shiga, Hyogo, and Nara.
For other areas, separate consultation is required, but may be possible in some cases.

8, How do I make a reservation?

1、Fill in the required information on Make a reservation page and send it.

2、And then, make payment from the payment link in the reply e-mail.

3、After the payment is completed, you will receive a receipt and your reservation will be confirmed.

9, How many people can you guide us?

The maximum number of guests allowed on one boat at a time is 3, but we can guide as many people as you wish if we arrange additional boats.

Watch a video guide showing the daily schedule

Guide Info

We partner with several experienced local professional guides.
We will provide you with the appropriate guide for your request.

Atsuya Asano (owner of Japan Bass Fishing Agent)

Profile

Atsuya Asano has been guiding on Lake Biwa since 2019.
He offers a variety of services to meet the needs of his guests, from big fish targeting to enjoyable fishing, mainly in the northern area.

His guide’s personal record is a max size largemouth bass of 65cm 5025g (over 11lb).

Toshihide Murahashi

Profile

Toshihide Murahashi is a former JB Masters competitor who has competed in tournaments throughout Japan.
He is currently based in Lake Biwa and works as a local professional guide.

He has received support from Fenwick, Sightmaster and others sponsors.

Kazuya Imawaka

Profile

Kazuya Imawaka has been guiding on Lake Biwa since 2013.
With over 12 years of experience, he welcomes everyone from beginners to experts, offering trips tailored to trophy bass hunting or fun numbers fishing.
He is skilled in all styles, from light rigs to strong style fishing.

Keito Shikanai

Profile

Keito works as a developer for the lure brand “Galápagos” while also serving as a bass fishing guide.
His exceptional knowledge of fishing gear and fishing spots is truly remarkable.

He specializes particularly in big fish hunting, targeting large fish using swim jigs and big glide baits.
He also has experience working as a manager at a large fishing tackle store, making him highly skilled in customer service.

※If the guide shown is fully booked, our affiliated guides will provide quality service.
If you really want to use a designated guide, please let us know when you make a reservation.

Guide Info

Atsuya Asano (Owner of Japan Bass Agent)

Atsuya Asano has been guiding on Lake Biwa since 2019.
He offers a variety of services to meet the needs of his guests, from big fish targeting to enjoyable fishing, mainly in the northern area.

His guide’s personal record is a max size largemouth bass of 65cm 5025g (over 11lb).

Toshihide Murahashi

Toshihide Murahashi is a former JB Masters competitor who has competed in tournaments throughout Japan.

He is currently based in Lake Biwa and works as a local professional guide.

Kazuya Imawaka

Kazuya Imawaka has been guiding on Lake Biwa since 2013.
With over 12 years of experience, he welcomes everyone from beginners to experts, offering trips tailored to trophy bass hunting or fun numbers fishing.
He is skilled in all styles, from light rigs to strong style fishing.

Keito Shikanai

Keito works as a developer for the lure brand “Galápagos” while also serving as a bass fishing guide.
His exceptional knowledge of fishing gear and fishing spots is truly remarkable.

He specializes particularly in big fish hunting, targeting large fish using swim jigs and big glide baits.
He also has experience working as a manager at a large fishing tackle store, making him highly skilled in customer service.

※If the guide shown is fully booked, our affiliated guides will provide quality service.
If you really want to use a designated guide, please let us know when you make a reservation.

Guide Boat

TRITON 21TRX + SUZUKI DF275SS

SKEETER ZX190 + SHO225

CHAMPION 210 ELITE + SUZUKI 200

PHOENIX BOAT 920 PRO XP + MERCURY 225

The guide boat is a Triton boat, Skeeter boat and Champion boat, one of the largest bass boats in the world, but soft against waves and gentle to the angler’s body.
This boat and the excellent driving experience of our guides allow anglers to enjoy fishing with peace of mind, even on the vast Lake Biwa.

Boats may vary slightly depending on the guide of the day, but experienced guides ensure a safe trip.

GARMIN LIVE SCOPE + GPS MAP1223 XSV

The Garmin LiveScope is equipped with a Garmin LiveScope, which allows anglers to assess conditions and select lures based on the real-time images projected on the screen, leading to better fishing results.

Guide Boat

TRITON 21TRX + SUZUKI DF275SS

SKEETER ZX190 + SHO225

CHAMPION 210 ELITE

PHOENIX BOAT 920 PRO XP + MERCURY 225

The guide boat is a Triton boat, Skeeter boat and Champion boat, one of the largest bass boats in the world, but soft against waves and gentle to the angler’s body.
This boat and the excellent driving experience of our guides allow anglers to enjoy fishing with peace of mind, even on the vast Lake Biwa.

Boats may vary slightly depending on the guide of the day, but experienced guides ensure a safe trip.

GARMIN LIVE SCOPE + GPS MAP1223 XSV

The Garmin LiveScope is equipped with a Garmin LiveScope, which allows anglers to assess conditions and select lures based on the real-time images projected on the screen, leading to better fishing results.

Departure Point

Ishizuka Marina

Departure Point

Ishizuka Marina

We also provide bass fishing guides on Lake Kawaguchi

We also provide bass fishing guides on Lake Ikehara

We also provide bass fishing guides on Lake Kawaguchi

We also provide bass fishing guides on Lake Ikehara

Check Availability & Book