Cape Verde, an archipelago of ten islands off the northwest coast of Africa, is a world-renowned fishing destination. Known for its deep waters, nutrient-rich seas, and abundant marine life, it’s no surprise that Cape Verde is a paradise for anglers. Whether you’re targeting Marlins, Tuna, Wahoo, or other big game fish, Cape Verde offers incredible fishing opportunities year-round. However, knowing the best fishing seasons and the ideal times to target specific species is key to ensuring a successful fishing trip.
If you’re planning a fishing adventure with Miss Angela, it’s important to understand when to visit Cape Verde for the best fishing experience. Here’s a breakdown of the best fishing seasons for catching Marlins and other popular species in Cape Verde.
The Year-Round Fishing Appeal of Cape Verde
One of the standout features of fishing in Cape Verde is that it offers year-round opportunities. With its warm waters, Cape Verde’s fishing seasons are not limited to specific months, unlike many other destinations where fishing is restricted to certain times of the year. However, like any fishing destination, certain species are more abundant during specific months, and understanding these patterns can make a huge difference in your experience.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner looking for your first big catch, Cape Verde’s waters offer something for everyone, from peaceful inshore fishing to thrilling deep-sea adventures.
The Peak Season for Marlin Fishing in Cape Verde
Marlin fishing is one of the main attractions in Cape Verde, and the islands’ waters are considered some of the best in the world for targeting Blue Marlins, White Marlins, and even Black Marlins. Marlins are highly sought after due to their size, strength, and speed, making them a dream catch for any fisherman.
The best time to target Marlins in Cape Verde is between November and March, during the peak Marlin fishing season. During these months, Marlins move closer to the coastline as they feed in preparation for their migration. The waters around Cape Verde’s islands—especially around Sal, Boa Vista, and Santiago—are known for their abundant Marlin population. The fishing conditions during this time are ideal, with the water temperatures hovering between 24°C and 28°C (75°F to 82°F), creating perfect conditions for Marlins to thrive.
If you're fishing with Miss Angela, this is when you’ll experience the most success. With local knowledge and expert guidance, your chances of landing a Marlin are highest during these months. The boats are equipped with top-of-the-line gear, and your team will ensure that you are fishing in the prime locations.
Why the Peak Season for Marlins is Ideal:
Higher Marlin activity close to shore.
Ideal water temperatures for feeding.
Best conditions for large catches.
Opportunity to target both Blue and White Marlins.
Experienced guides with local knowledge to take you to the best spots.
Off-Peak Marlin Fishing: April to October
While the peak Marlin fishing season is from November to March, fishing for Marlins is still possible during the off-peak months of April to October. During these months, the waters may be less crowded, and some anglers may find a quieter experience, which can be a draw for those seeking a more serene fishing trip.
However, during the off-season, Marlins tend to move farther offshore, which can make it more challenging to reach them without the proper equipment and experience. Nevertheless, Cape Verde still offers great fishing, with the waters remaining teeming with other species like Tuna, Wahoo, and Sailfish. It’s a good idea to fish with a knowledgeable local guide during these months to ensure that you target the right locations.
Visit Cape Verde’s Marlin hotspots with Miss Angela—contact us!
Why Fish During the Off-Peak Months:
Less crowded fishing experience.
The chance to target other species like Tuna, Wahoo, and Sailfish.
More serene and private adventure.
expert guides ensure access to the best spots.
The Best Seasons for Other Big Game Fish
While Cape Verde is best known for its Marlin fishing, there are plenty of other big-game fish to target throughout the year. If Marlin fishing isn't your main goal, or if you want to mix it up, other species are abundant at different times of the year.
Tuna Fishing:
Cape Verde is famous for its Tuna fishing, especially Bigeye Tuna and Yellowfin Tuna. These species are found year-round in the waters around the islands, though the best time to target them is during the summer months of June through September. The warm water conditions during this time make Tuna more active and easier to catch, especially if you are fishing offshore.
Why Fish for Tuna:
Great fishing year-round, with a peak season during the summer months.
Excellent opportunities for both seasoned anglers and beginners.
Thrilling fights with large Tuna species like Yellowfin and Bigeye.
Wahoo Fishing:
Wahoos, known for their speed and strength, are another popular species in Cape Verde. Wahoo fishing is most productive from December to May, making it a great option during the Marlin off-season. Wahoos can be found in both shallow and deep waters, making them accessible for both inshore and offshore fishing.
Book your dream Marlin fishing trip with Miss Angela in Cape Verde!
Why Fish for Wahoo:
The best time to catch Wahoo is from December to May.
Known for fast, exciting fights.
Great species for both inshore and offshore fishing.
Sailfish Fishing:
Sailfish, famous for their impressive dorsal fins and spectacular leaping behavior, are another top target for anglers in Cape Verde. Sailfish fishing is fantastic year-round, though peak seasons are from January to April. The waters around Sal, Boa Vista, and Santiago are particularly productive for Sailfish, and they often accompany Marlins in the same fishing grounds.
Why Fish for Sailfish:
Excellent fishing year-round, with peaks in the early months of the year.
A thrilling and challenging species to catch.
Can be found in the same areas as Marlins.
Inshore Fishing for Smaller Species
While deep-sea fishing gets most of the attention, Cape Verde also offers fantastic inshore fishing opportunities. These waters are home to a variety of species, including Snapper, Barracuda, Jacks, and Groupers, all of which can be found year-round. If you prefer more relaxed fishing in calmer waters or want to take a break from deep-sea adventures, inshore fishing is a great option. This type of fishing is ideal for beginners or those looking to enjoy a more laid-back fishing experience.
Why Try Inshore Fishing:
Perfect for beginners and those seeking a relaxed experience.
Year-round fishing for species like Snapper, Barracuda, and Groupers.
Less intense than offshore fishing, and great for a more peaceful trip.
Conclusion: The Best Time to Visit Cape Verde for Fishing
Cape Verde offers one of the best fishing experiences in the world, with year-round opportunities to catch a wide variety of species. However, knowing when to fish and what species to target can significantly improve your experience.
For Marlin fishing, the best time is from November to March, when the Marlins come closer to shore and are more active. If you're targeting other big game fish like Tuna, Wahoo, and Sailfish, there are specific peak seasons—summer for Tuna (June to September), winter and spring for Wahoo (December to May), and early year for Sailfish (January to April). Inshore fishing offers consistent action throughout the year, ideal for those looking for a more relaxing and accessible experience.
By booking your fishing adventure with Miss Angela, you’ll be guided to the best spots and given expert advice on the right techniques, gear, and timing to make your fishing trip in Cape Verde unforgettable. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-time visitor, Cape Verde’s waters have something incredible to offer
Fishing in Cape Verde made easy—contact Miss Angela for bookings!