Captain Mohannad Mokaddam is a ship captain, professional sport fisher, and founder of Behind the Reef, the first community for sport fishers in Saudi Arabia.

Falling in love with fishing from the young age of five years old thanks to his uncle, Captain Mohannad has become one of Saudi Arabia’s pioneers in the techniques of jigging and popping.

His love of fishing led to the founding of Behind the Reef. This community works to bring together fishermen and women from around the Kingdom to ensure that the future of this sport has a strong place in Saudi culture.

Since then, Behind the Reef has acquired the first certified weigh station in Saudi Arabia by the IGFA, or International Game Fish Association.

Captain Mohannad takes us through his favorite spots in Jeddah for the summer.

How do you spend your summer in Jeddah?

Since Jeddah’s summers are extremely hot, I love going to the sea or the beach to cool off.

What’s your favorite spot to watch the sunset?

The most beautiful sunset in Jeddah has to be at our Corniche.

Best seafood restaurant?

The best restaurant to try authentic seafood is Al Basali in Al Balad, Jeddah.

Morning or evening fishing?

Day fishing, no doubt. Day fishing allows you to see the colors of the sea and fish, and you get a chance to catch the frenzy, where the fish move quickly and even jump out of the water.  You also get to catch the beauty and colors of the reefs. Plus, the day fish are very different from night fish.

What are the three essential items you have to take when you go fishing?

The rod, the reel, and the lure.

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