Fishing in Cape Verde

Make a pilgrimage to the Marlin Mecca and discover the vibrant fishing opportunities in the deep Atlantic waters and serene coastal reefs of Cape Verde.
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About Cape Verde

Cape Verde, officially Republic of Cabo Verde, is an archipelago of ten volcanic islands located in the central Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. Uninhabited before the discovery by Portuguese sailors in the middle of the XV century, Cape Verde has been a pivotal place in the early Age of Discovery, as a strategically important stopover for sailing from Africa to the Americas and back. Forgotten after the steam power won the day, it is gradually developing its tourist industry, and is a premier destination for recreational fishing enthusiasts. Cape Verde’s climate is exceptional, warm but not as hot as African countries on the same latitudes due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean. From deep ocean waters to tranquil coastal reefs, the seas around Cape Verde feature a rich marine biodiversity and the background of stunning volcanic landscapes. The archipelago is easily accessible via direct flights from Lisbon, Portugal, as well as American cities on the Atlantic coast, and can offer nearly European levels of safety and comfort. Fishing in Cape Verde is regulated by the local fisheries authorities, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of marine resources. Anglers are encouraged to follow local guidelines to help preserve Cape Verde's rich aquatic ecosystems. For marlin aficionados it is a must place, and even for the less demanding anglers Cape Verde is more than worth a visit. Consider spending your next vacation on Cape Verde, and if you do, book your fishing trip on BaitYourHook.com!

Fishing Types

Sometimes called Marlin Mecca, Cape Verde can indeed boast of being a prime destination for anglers who are serious about blue marlin. The billfish giants are both abundant and big, with several record catches registered here, and it’s not uncommon to have two strikes at a time. March to November is where the marlin visit the seas around Cape Verde islands, with June to September being the high season. Wahoo fishing is also exceptionally good. Other pelagic species caught around Cape Verde include yellowfin tuna, dolphinfish (mahi-mahi), swordfish and sailfish, as well as white marlin, bonito, bigeye tuna, and an assortment of sharks. Inshore, the reefs and coastal areas of Cape Verde are teeming with species like snapper, grouper, and an assortment of jacks, including black jack, horse eye jack, Almaco jack, and the biggest of the family, the amberjack, as well as good-sized African pompano.

Targeted Fish Species

Cape Verde, officially Republic of Cabo Verde, is an archipelago of ten volcanic islands located in the central Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. Uninhabited before the discovery by Portuguese sailors in the middle of the XV century, Cape Verde has been a pivotal place in the early Age of Discovery, as a strategically important stopover for sailing from Africa to the Americas and back. Forgotten after the steam power won the day, it is gradually developing its tourist industry, and is a premier destination for recreational fishing enthusiasts. Cape Verde’s climate is exceptional, warm but not as hot as African countries on the same latitudes due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean. From deep ocean waters to tranquil coastal reefs, the seas around Cape Verde feature a rich marine biodiversity and the background of stunning volcanic landscapes. The archipelago is easily accessible via direct flights from Lisbon, Portugal, as well as American cities on the Atlantic coast, and can offer nearly European levels of safety and comfort - as well as numerous fishing charters with professional and enthusiastic crews. Fishing in Cape Verde is regulated by the local fisheries authorities, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of marine resources. Anglers are encouraged to follow local guidelines to help preserve Cape Verde's rich aquatic ecosystems. For marlin aficionados it is a must place, and even for the less demanding anglers Cape Verde is more than worth a visit. Consider spending your next vacation on Cape Verde, and if you do, book your fishing trip on BaitYourHook.com!

Fishing Techniques

Offshore fishing trips in Cape Verde are especially promising. As you would expect from a volcanic archipelago, deep sea is never too far from the shore in Cape Verde, so you won’t have to sail for hours before you reach the billfish playgrounds. In fact, a captain can let off the spread almost as soon as the boat leaves the harbor! No wonder that deep waters off the coasts of São Vicente and Boa Vista are prime destinations for big game fishing, attracting anglers from around the world. Inshore and nearshore fishing are also highly productive, with species like dorado, amberjack, and barracuda near rocky shores and reefs offering a mix of excitement and breathtaking scenery.