Best Marlin Fishing Spots in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an island nation off the northwest coast of Africa, is a world-class destination for marlin fishing. The warm Atlantic currents and deep waters create the perfect conditions for an abundance of blue marlin, attracting anglers from across the globe. If you’re looking for the best marlin fishing spots in Cape Verde, here are the top locations to consider.
1. Mindelo, São Vicente
Mindelo, the fishing capital of Cape Verde, is renowned for its exceptional blue marlin fishing. The waters surrounding São Vicente offer deep drop-offs close to shore, making it one of the best places to catch giant marlin. Many anglers have reported record-breaking catches here, with marlin often exceeding 1,000 pounds. The peak season runs from March to July, with another good window from September to November.
2. Santo Antão
Santo Antão, just northwest of São Vicente, is another fantastic marlin hotspot. The nutrient-rich waters attract large predatory fish, including blue marlin. The deep-sea fishing grounds are easily accessible, and many charters operate in this region, offering high chances of landing a trophy fish.
3. Sal Island
Sal is one of the most popular tourist islands in Cape Verde, and it also boasts excellent fishing opportunities. The ocean here is teeming with marlin, especially during the peak fishing months. The waters near the island provide ideal conditions for sport fishing, and many experienced captains operate charters from Santa Maria.
4. Boa Vista
Boa Vista is known for its beautiful beaches, but it is also an underrated marlin fishing destination. Offshore waters offer a rich marine ecosystem, providing excellent conditions for catching blue marlin. With relatively less fishing pressure compared to Mindelo, anglers have a good chance of hooking large marlin in these waters.
5. Santiago Island
Santiago, the largest island in Cape Verde, is another great location for marlin fishing. The waters off the coast provide deep-sea fishing opportunities, with plenty of marlin activity during the high season. Praia, the capital city, serves as a great starting point for fishing expeditions.
Best Time for Marlin Fishing in Cape Verde
The prime season for blue marlin fishing in Cape Verde is from March to July, with a secondary peak from September to November. During these months, the ocean temperatures and currents create optimal conditions for marlin activity. Many professional anglers and fishing tournaments take place during these times, making it the ideal period for an unforgettable fishing adventure.
Why Cape Verde is a Top Marlin Fishing Destination
- Abundance of Blue Marlin: Cape Verde is known for its high concentration of blue marlin, with multiple daily hook-ups being common.
- Deep Waters Close to Shore: The islands offer deep-sea fishing opportunities without requiring long trips offshore.
- Experienced Fishing Charters: Many local captains and crews have years of expertise in targeting marlin, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
- Great Weather Conditions: Cape Verde enjoys a stable climate, making it a year-round fishing destination.
Conclusion
Cape Verde stands out as one of the world’s best destinations for marlin fishing, offering unparalleled opportunities to catch giant blue marlin. Whether you choose Mindelo, Santo Antão, Sal, Boa Vista, or Santiago, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience on the waters of this Atlantic paradise. Plan your trip during peak seasons and book a reputable fishing charter for the best chances of landing the marlin of a lifetime.