Best fishing spots Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago off the west coast of Africa, is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its warm waters and diverse marine life, the region attracts anglers from around the world. Whether you’re into deep-sea fishing, shore fishing, or sport fishing, Cape Verde offers exceptional opportunities. Below, we explore the top fishing spots in Cape Verde and what makes each location special.

1. Sal Island

Sal Island is one of the most popular destinations in Cape Verde for fishing. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish species. Key fishing areas include:

• Santa Maria Pier – A hotspot for shore fishing, where anglers can catch barracuda, groupers, and snappers.
• Offshore Waters – Deep-sea fishing around Sal Island offers the chance to reel in tuna, marlin, wahoo, and dorado.

2. Boa Vista

Boa Vista is another excellent fishing destination with a mix of deep-sea and shore fishing spots. Highlights include:

• Santa Monica Beach – Ideal for surf fishing, where anglers can target jackfish, snappers, and rays.
• Offshore Fishing – The waters around Boa Vista are home to sailfish, tuna, and blue marlin, making it a favorite among sport fishers.

3. São Vicente

São Vicente is famous for its strong fishing culture and competitive sport fishing events. Top locations include:

• Mindelo Bay – A great place for boat fishing and targeting larger game fish like swordfish and blue marlin.
• Off the Coast of São Vicente – Known for hosting the annual Big Game Fishing Tournament, where anglers compete for the biggest catches.

4. Santo Antão

For those who prefer a quieter fishing experience, Santo Antão is a hidden gem. The island’s rugged coastline and deep waters attract both casual and experienced fishers.

• Porto Novo – Offers excellent conditions for deep-sea fishing, with an abundance of tuna and wahoo.
• Ponta do Sol – A great spot for rock fishing, where anglers can catch a variety of reef fish.

5. Fogo Island

Fogo Island is unique due to its volcanic origins, which have created nutrient-rich waters perfect for fishing.

• São Filipe Waters – Home to a variety of pelagic fish such as yellowfin tuna and bonito.
• Coastal Fishing – Offers opportunities to catch reef fish like groupers and snappers from small boats or shorelines.

Best Time for Fishing in Cape Verde

Fishing in Cape Verde is excellent year-round, but the best time depends on your target species:

• Blue Marlin – Best from March to June.
• Tuna and Wahoo – Peak season from October to April.
• General Reef Fishing – Available throughout the year.

Fishing Techniques in Cape Verde

Anglers in Cape Verde use various fishing techniques, including:

• Trolling – Effective for catching marlin, tuna, and wahoo.
• Bottom Fishing – Ideal for reef species like snappers and groupers.
• Casting from Shore – Great for catching barracuda and jackfish near beaches and rocky outcrops.

Conclusion

Cape Verde is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, offering a mix of deep-sea, shore, and sport fishing experiences. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, these islands provide some of the best fishing opportunities in the Atlantic. Plan your trip around peak seasons, choose the right fishing techniques, and explore these top fishing spots to make the most of your Cape Verde fishing adventure.