Lake Biwa Bass Fishing Guides near Kyoto

Find today's fish, together.

Every morning on Lake Biwa starts with a question. Where are the fish today? What will they bite? Is this the day you catch the biggest bass of your life? We head out and find the answers together. Just 22 minutes by train from Kyoto.

Check availability

Finding fish is what we do

Every tournament starts from zero. So does every guided day.

Every guide on our team is an active tournament angler. In a tournament, nobody tells you where the fish are. You read the weather, the water and the wind, and you find them yourself, on a fixed schedule.

Your trip works the same way. Our guides fish Lake Biwa through every season, so they know where to begin. From there, you search together. Your guide shows you the LiveScope screen, explains why each spot and each lure is chosen, and changes the plan as the day unfolds.

The best moment of the day is when it all comes together. The lure goes down, a fish appears on the screen, and your rod bends. You found that fish together, and you go home knowing exactly how.

Follow us on Instagram (@__fishingjapan)

About us

Lake Biwa International Fishing Guides and Charters is a small team of guides led by Shogo Kubota. Every guide is an active tournament angler or professional guide.

On Lake Nojiri and Lake Kawaguchi, you can fish with a former JB TOP 50 pro who competed on Japan's top professional bass tour.

On every lake, we go out and find the day's fish and the way to catch them, together with you.

Guided trips from ¥40,000

Half day with a staff guide, up to 2 guests.

Kyoto pickup is also available with the Hassle-Free Fishing Plan.

See plans and prices →

Your day, your way

Everyone enjoys a day on the lake in their own way.

First time fishing

Your guide sets up everything and picks the easiest way to catch fish that day, so you can feel your first bite and land your first bass. Never held a rod? That is fine.

Fun fishing

Just want to feel lots of bites and enjoy the day? We go where the fish are biting, so you can make the most of whatever the lake gives that day.

Chasing a big one

Lake Biwa produced a world record-tying largemouth. On the Trophy Bass Plan, we spend the whole day looking for one.

Guest reviews

★ 5.0 on Google
Guest with a Lake Biwa bass, guided by Shogo Kubota

★★★★★

His English is great and fishes the lake every day so he is definitely the guy you want if catching monster bass is on your Japan itinerary.

Tyler R.

Read on Google →

Guest with a Lake Biwa bass, guided by Shogo Kubota

★★★★★

On top of that, he's just a genuinely great person—super friendly, patient, and fun to fish with. Excellent english, we communicated with no problems.

Gina M.

Read on Google →

Guest with a Lake Biwa bass, guided by Shogo Kubota

★★★★★

Super nice and teaches you about everything going on with sonar and baits. Great English and provided everything you could need!

Tucker J.

Read on Google →

Read our reviews on TripAdvisor → Read all reviews on Google →

Recent catches

Fish found together on Lake Biwa.

Three guests on a bass boat holding a largemouth bass together on Lake BiwaA guest holding a largemouth bass with a soft plastic lure in its jaw on Lake BiwaA smiling guest holding a largemouth bass caught on a soft plastic lure on Lake BiwaTwo guests holding a largemouth bass together beside the waterA young guest in a life jacket holding a largemouth bass on the bow of a bass boatA guest holding a largemouth bass caught on an umbrella rig on Lake Biwa

See more catches on Instagram (@__fishingjapan)

Experience World-Class Bass Fishing at Lake Biwa, Japan

Lake Biwa is Japan's largest lake and one of the oldest lakes in the world. It produced the world record-tying largemouth bass, and it is only 22 minutes by train from Kyoto.

About Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, covering approximately 670 square kilometers (260 square miles). It is also the third oldest lake in the world, estimated to be over 4 million years old, making it home to a rich and unique ecosystem.

The lake reaches a maximum depth of about 104 meters (341 feet), providing diverse aquatic environments that support various fish species, including largemouth bass. Lake Biwa is also famous for producing one of the largest largemouth bass ever caught, tying the world record at 22 pounds 4 ounces (10.12 kg).

Conveniently located near major cities, Lake Biwa is easily accessible from Kyoto and Osaka, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway into nature. Whether you are looking for an exciting fishing adventure or simply want to enjoy its breathtaking scenery, the lake offers a perfect escape from the city.

Bass fishing at Lake Biwa Japan - professional fishing guide service

Breathtakingly Beautiful

At Lake Biwa, there are many beautiful places to visit, such as the rock formations at the center of the lake, known as "Oki no Shiraishi," "Shirahige Shrine," which features a stunning floating torii gate, and an amazing historical and religious island.

Shirahige Shrine on Lake Biwa - scenic fishing destination in Japan
Oki no Shiraishi island on Lake Biwa - Japan fishing charter destination

Easy Access for Fishing from Kyoto and Osaka

Lake Biwa is in Shiga Prefecture, just 22 minutes by train from Kyoto Station to Katata Station on the JR Kosei Line. Spend the morning on the lake and the afternoon at Kyoto's temples and shrines. Osaka is close by too.

See access details →

Lake Biwa easy access from Kyoto and Osaka for fishing tours

Easy Access for Fishing from Tokyo

Based in Tokyo, or starting your trip there? Some of Japan's best bass fishing sits right beside the places you're already planning to go.

Visiting Mt. Fuji? Fish Lake Kawaguchi →

The lake in your Mt. Fuji photos is one of Japan's most storied largemouth bass waters. Fish it in the morning and sightsee in the afternoon.

Heading to Nagano or Kanazawa? Fish Lake Nojiri →

A short hop north of Nagano sits one of Japan's few true smallmouth lakes, an easy add to a Zenkoji visit, the autumn colour, or a Tokyo to Kanazawa rail trip.

World Record Largemouth Bass

The world record-tying largemouth bass was caught at Lake Biwa. Florida largemouth bass were introduced to the lake a long time ago, which is one of the reasons why bass in Lake Biwa grew larger and have a nice proportion. The other reason is its rich ecosystem. Many small fish live in the water and weeds grow thickly, which is a rare situation in Japan and helps to protect bass and other creatures.

World record largemouth bass caught at Lake Biwa Japan fishing

Fishing Guides Info

Shogo Kubota - Lake Biwa fishing guide and charter captain Shogo Kubota bass fishing on Lake Biwa Japan charter
Lead Guide

Shogo Kubota

Fluent English Standard plan Trophy bass plan Hassle-Free Fishing plan

I have guided anglers from all over the world on Lake Biwa. Every trip is different, because the lake changes every day and every guest wants something different from it. That is what makes every day out there exciting, for my guests and for me.

Why fish with me

250+ days a year on Lake Biwa
I know how the fish move through the seasons, so we start in the right place.
LiveScope and shallow water
I use modern sonar and traditional power fishing, and choose whichever fits the day.
One of the first to guide overseas anglers here
I know what international guests need, from train directions to where to stay.
I guide in English myself
I lived abroad for many years. I explain tactics, lure choice and conditions as we fish.

Tournament Record

2026 1st Place, BATNET Category 1, Final Round
2025 1st Place BATNET CLASSIC 25 (Back-to-back Champion)
1st Place BATNET S2D 31,700g (69.9lb) / 2 days
2024 B League AOY
1st Place BATNET CLASSIC 24
2nd Place NBC Chapter Lake Biwa Tackleberry CUP
2nd Place B League DEPS CUP
2023 1st Place BATNET 24 Category 1, Round 3
2nd Place, Lake Biwa Chapter Lake Biwa Gary international CUP
2022 1st Place, B League DEPS CUP
2021 3rd Place, BATNET Category 2, Round 4

Shogo going for a third straight BATNET Classic title on Lake Biwa. Filmed by his sponsor Bottomup (in Japanese).

Sponsors

Book a trip with our Lead Guide
Cranker Kimura - Lake Biwa bass fishing guide Japan
Team Guide

"Cranker" Kimura

Standard plan Hassle-Free Fishing plan

Enjoy a relaxed and fun day out on the water.
Fish the way you like, in the spots you enjoy, and focus on having a great experience.
As for the catch, we'll do our best.
My concept is love, peace, and freedom.

Daiki Nishihara - professional bass fishing guide at Lake Biwa Japan
Team Guide

Daiki Nishihara

English support Standard plan Trophy bass plan Hassle-Free Fishing plan

Hello, I have mainly focused on competing in bass tournaments on Lake Biwa.
Through those experiences, I have gained a deep understanding of the lake, and I would like to share the incredible moments and excitement that Lake Biwa has given me with as many anglers as possible.

My fishing style covers a wide range of techniques, including topwater, moving baits, and soft lures, adapting my approach to seasonal patterns and conditions.
Whenever possible, I tailor the guide experience to each guest's preferred fishing style and favorite lure brands, so you can enjoy fishing in the way that suits you best.

I look forward to fishing with you on Lake Biwa.

2023 Lake Biwa Chapter Event 6, 1st Place / Season Overall: 2nd Place
M.B.F.T 2-Day Pro Tournament Season Overall: 6th Place
MUTA Bass Japan Open 3rd Place
2022 Lake Biwa Chapter Season Overall Champion
M.B.F.T B League Season Overall: 3rd Place
MUTA Bass Japan Open 3rd Place

Sponsors

studio COMPOSIT
PARADOX_PARKER
MX PRODUCTION

Ranger bass boat with Suzuki outboard used for Lake Biwa fishing charters, at Ohmi Marina Japan Fishing gear and equipment on Lake Biwa Japan charter boat

Boat & Gear

The Ranger Z20 is a high-performance bass boat designed for serious anglers who demand speed, stability, and top-tier fishability. Known for its sleek design and durable construction, the Z20 is built to handle various water conditions while providing a smooth and comfortable ride.

  • Ranger Z20
  • SUZUKI DF275S
  • Minn Kota UlTREX 112lb
  • Garmin Live scope
  • 22inch Monitor / Garmin 8412
  • Lowrance HDS Carbon / Lowrance HDS Gen3

* This is an example of the equipment used. Actual gear may vary depending on the guide and conditions.

We take care of the rest

You focus on the fishing. We handle everything else.

Everything ready on the boat

Rental tackle and life jackets on every trip. Rain gear and winter clothing to borrow, so a cold or wet morning is still a good one.

We watch the weather

We check the forecast and lake conditions before and during your trip, and adjust the plan so the day stays safe.

Always easy to reach

We meet you at the station with a sign, and you can message us on WhatsApp at any time.

Guide Plans & Pricing

Team Guide

Tournament anglers

Active tournament anglers who fish Lake Biwa through every season. They read the day's conditions, find the fish, and fit the fishing to the way you like to fish. Basic English on the boat. All booking messages are handled in English.

Lead Guide

Back-to-back BATNET Classic Champion (2024, 2025) on Lake Biwa. From LiveScope finesse to shallow power fishing, he picks the approach that fits the day and explains each decision as you fish, in fluent English.

+¥10,000 per trip, on any plan.

Plan 1 guest 2 guests 3 guests
Standard Plan Most Popular Half day (7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, or 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM) A relaxed fishing experience on Lake Biwa, ideal for beginners and travelers. ¥40,000 ¥40,000 ¥50,000
Standard Plan Full day (7:30 AM to 3:30 PM) ¥60,000 ¥60,000 ¥70,000
Trophy Bass Plan Recommended Full day (7:30 AM to 3:30 PM) A full-day trip dedicated to targeting trophy-sized bass. 1 guest only. ¥70,000 ー ー
Hassle-Free Fishing Plan Half day (7:00 AM to 1:30 PM, or 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM) Complimentary transfer from Kyoto. ¥55,000 ¥65,000 ¥80,000
Hassle-Free Fishing Plan Full day (7:00 AM to 4:30 PM) ¥70,000 ¥80,000 ¥95,000

Times include pickup and drop-off.

Prices above are with a Team Guide. Trips with the Lead Guide are ¥10,000 more.

Groups of 4 or more need two boats, so please contact us first.

All prices are per boat and include rental tackle and life jackets. Meals and personal expenses are not included.

A typical day

Times include pickup and drop-off and can change with the season. We confirm your exact meeting time before the trip.

Standard and Trophy Bass Plans (meet at the station)

Morning half day

  • 7:30 AMMeet your guide at the station
  • 8:00 AMLeave the marina and start fishing
  • 12:00 PMBack at the marina
  • 12:30 PMDrop off at the station

Afternoon half day

  • 12:30 PMMeet your guide at the station
  • 1:00 PMLeave the marina and start fishing
  • 5:00 PMBack at the marina
  • 5:30 PMDrop off at the station

Full day

  • 7:30 AMMeet your guide at the station
  • 8:00 AMLeave the marina and start fishing
  • 3:00 PMBack at the marina
  • 3:30 PMDrop off at the station

Hassle-Free Fishing Plan (pickup at your Kyoto hotel)

Morning half day

  • 7:00 AMPickup at your hotel in Kyoto
  • 8:00 AMLeave the marina and start fishing
  • 12:00 PMBack at the marina
  • 1:30 PMDrop off at your hotel

Afternoon half day

  • 12:00 PMPickup at your hotel in Kyoto
  • 1:00 PMLeave the marina and start fishing
  • 5:00 PMBack at the marina
  • 6:30 PMDrop off at your hotel

Full day

  • 7:00 AMPickup at your hotel in Kyoto
  • 8:00 AMLeave the marina and start fishing
  • 3:00 PMBack at the marina
  • 4:30 PMDrop off at your hotel

Take the train from Kyoto and save ¥20,000.

The JR Kosei Line takes you from Kyoto Station to Katata Station in 22 minutes, no transfers, ¥420. Your ICOCA or Suica card works. We meet you at the station with a sign, and you can reach us on WhatsApp at any time.

By car, the same trip takes 40 minutes on a clear morning and up to 90 minutes in traffic.

See the step-by-step train guide →

Where to stay

Stay the night before your trip at Biwako Hanakaido, a hot spring ryokan in Ogoto Onsen, right on the shore of Lake Biwa. Soak in the onsen and enjoy a kaiseki dinner with local Omi beef. In the morning, watch the sun rise from behind the mountains across the lake and turn the water gold. It is one of the most beautiful views on Lake Biwa, and the perfect start to a day of fishing. We pick you up at the hotel, so there is no early train to catch.

Ogoto Onsen is about 20 minutes from Kyoto Station by train.

Biwako Hanakaido official site →

Sunrise over Lake Biwa from Biwako Hanakaido in Ogoto Onsen
Sunrise over Lake Biwa from the hotel, the morning of a fishing trip.

Hassle-Free Fishing Plan

The full Lake Biwa day, door to water.

Complimentary door-to-lake transfer from Kyoto included.

We pick you up in Kyoto and bring you back at the end of the day, with snacks and drinks on board. You only need to think about the fishing.

What's Included

  • Complimentary transfer from Kyoto
  • Rental tackle (free of charge)
  • Complimentary snacks & beverages on board
  • Life jacket provided

Prices for 1 to 3 guests are listed in the table above.

Choosing a guide

Every guide finds the day's fish with you. If you want each decision, from spot choice to LiveScope reading, explained in detail as you fish, choose a trip with our Lead Guide.

Pickup point for Standard / Trophy Bass Plan

Pickup available from the nearest station to our marina, or from nearby hotels.

See access details →

Important Information

Safety is the top priority, and plans may change depending on weather and lake conditions. The fee covers guide service only (meals and personal expenses are not included). Meeting location and preparation details will be provided after booking.

Recommended For

Guests who want a relaxed full day on the lake with nothing to arrange themselves: transfer from Kyoto, snacks and drinks on board, and all the tackle ready when you step on the boat.

FAQ

Do you have rental tackle?

Yes. Rental tackle is included free of charge on every trip.

Do you lend rain gear or warm clothes?

Yes. We lend rain gear for wet days and warm clothing in winter. Sizes are limited, so please tell us your sizes when you book.

What do I need to bring?

We suggest you bring a cap, sunglasses with polarized lenses, sunblock, and waterproof clothing if you have. Wear appropriate clothing for the weather and layer up during the colder months. Feel free to bring any snacks or beverages you'd like for the journey. You're also welcome to bring your own fishing rods, reels, and any other tackle you prefer.

Bringing your own gear? See our guide to bringing fishing tackle to Japan.

Do I need a fishing license?

You do not need a fishing license to fish in Lake Biwa.

Releasing bass is banned on Lake Biwa. See our guide to Lake Biwa fishing rules.

Do you have a pickup service?

On the Standard and Trophy Bass Plans, we meet you at the nearest station to our marina or at a nearby hotel. The Hassle-Free Fishing Plan includes a complimentary transfer from Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, the train to Katata Station takes 22 minutes.

See access details →

How do I make a reservation?

Send us the form below with your preferred date and the number of guests. We reply within 24 hours. To confirm your trip, we ask for a 50% deposit through a PayPal payment link, which you can pay by card without a PayPal account. The balance is paid in cash on the day.

How many people can board the boat at maximum?

A bass boat takes up to 3 guests plus the guide. For groups of 4 or more guests, please contact us first and we will arrange two boats.

Can you recommend a place to stay?

Yes. We recommend Biwako Hanakaido, a hot spring ryokan in Ogoto Onsen on the shore of Lake Biwa. We can pick you up at the hotel in the morning.

How do I get to Lake Biwa?

Take the JR Kosei Line from Kyoto Station to Katata Station. It takes 22 minutes with no transfers. See our step-by-step train guide for details.

See access details →

How booking works

  1. Send your request Tell us your preferred date and the number of guests. A second date helps if your first choice is taken.
  2. We check availability We reply by email within 24 hours.
  3. Pay a 50% deposit We send you a PayPal payment link. You can pay by credit or debit card, and you do not need a PayPal account. Your trip is confirmed when you receive our confirmation email.
  4. Meet us on the day Pay the remaining balance in cash on the day of your trip. We send your meeting time and place before the trip, and you can message us on WhatsApp at any time.

Free cancellation up to 8 days before your trip.

Inquiries & Reservation

Your name, email and a preferred date are all we need to check availability.

To help us proceed smoothly, please let us know your preferred date.

Book Now