Best Time to Fish in Cape Verde | Miss Angela

Best Time to Fish in Cape Verde | Miss Angela

Cape Verde is a paradise not just for sunseekers and nature lovers, but also for anglers from around the world. This Atlantic archipelago, located off the northwest coast of Africa, is world-famous for its Blue Marlin fishing, calm seas, and incredible biodiversity. Whether you’re an experienced big game fisherman or a curious beginner, Cape Verde offers some of the best sportfishing opportunities anywhere on the planet.

If you’re planning a fishing trip to Cape Verde, timing is everything. While you can enjoy fishing here throughout the year, certain months offer peak activity for specific fish species. Understanding the fishing seasons can help you maximize your chances of success and make the most out of your experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best time to fish in Cape Verde, what species you can target during each season, the most popular fishing islands, and why booking with Marlin Fishing Cape Verde guarantees an unforgettable adventure on the water.

Why Cape Verde is a World-Class Fishing Destination

Cape Verde is one of the few places in the world where you can catch a trophy-sized Blue Marlin just minutes from the dock. The islands are surrounded by deep waters that drop off quickly, creating an ideal environment for big game fish like marlin, tuna, wahoo, and dorado. Add to that the warm waters of the Canary Current and the nutrient-rich upwellings from the deep ocean, and it’s easy to see why Cape Verde is a magnet for migratory fish species.

Some of the standout reasons to fish in Cape Verde include:

• Year-round fishing opportunities

• Peak Blue Marlin season from March to July

• Close proximity to deep waters

• Calm sea conditions for most of the year

• Experienced charter companies like Marlin Fishing Cape Verde

• Stunning natural beauty and welcoming culture

If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime fishing trip, Cape Verde deserves a spot on your bucket list.

Understanding Cape Verde’s Fishing Seasons

Fishing in Cape Verde is a year-round activity, but the species you can catch varies depending on the month. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year.

March to July – Prime Blue Marlin Season

This is undoubtedly the best time to fish in Cape Verde, especially if you’re targeting Atlantic Blue Marlin. During this period, large schools of baitfish attract some of the biggest marlin in the Atlantic. It’s not uncommon to see multiple hookups in a single day, with marlin weighing anywhere from 500 to over 1,000 pounds.

Anglers from all over the world come to Cape Verde during these months to test their skills against this powerful gamefish. São Vicente Island, particularly around Mindelo, is the epicenter of Blue Marlin action.

The weather during this season is ideal—warm temperatures, clear skies, and calm seas make for perfect offshore conditions. If you're planning a marlin expedition, be sure to book your charter early, as the demand during these months is incredibly high.

August to October – Transition Season with Tuna and Wahoo

While Blue Marlin activity begins to slow down toward the end of July, August through October still offers great fishing opportunities. During this time, Yellowfin Tuna, Bigeye Tuna, Dorado (Mahi-Mahi), and Wahoo become more prominent.

The seas remain calm, and the weather stays warm, making this a comfortable time to be out on the water. These months are perfect for anglers looking to target a variety of pelagic species. You’ll still have a chance at Blue Marlin in early August, but the focus shifts to other hard-fighting and delicious fish.

This period is also great for families or those who want a mix of action and relaxation. With fewer boats on the water and slightly lower charter rates, it’s a great time to enjoy Cape Verde’s diverse marine life.

November to February – Off-Peak But Still Productive

The months from November to February are considered the off-season for big game fishing in Cape Verde. However, that doesn’t mean the action stops. These cooler months offer fantastic opportunities to target Wahoo, Skipjack Tuna, Bonito, and other smaller pelagic species.

This is an excellent time for light tackle fishing, vertical jigging, or even fly fishing nearshore. If you prefer a more relaxed and scenic fishing experience, this season is ideal. The weather remains pleasant, and the waters are relatively quiet, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Verde without the crowds.

For those on a tighter budget or looking for a more laid-back fishing trip, the off-season still provides plenty of exciting action.

Fish Species Calendar – What’s in Season and When

To help you plan your trip, here’s a general calendar of the most popular gamefish in Cape Verde and the months when they are most active:

• Blue Marlin – Peak season is from March to July, with the best action in May and June.

• Yellowfin Tuna – Most abundant from August to October.

• Bigeye Tuna – Found from late summer into early winter, August through November.

• Wahoo – Available year-round, but especially active in the cooler months of November to February.

• Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) – Present throughout the year, with higher activity during the warmer months.

• Skipjack Tuna and Bonito – Great for light tackle action and available in all seasons.

This seasonal variety ensures there’s always something biting in the waters around Cape Verde, no matter when you choose to visit.

Best Islands in Cape Verde for Fishing

While all of Cape Verde’s islands offer access to the Atlantic Ocean, some are better suited for sportfishing due to their proximity to deep water and established infrastructure.

São Vicente

Home to the port town of Mindelo, São Vicente is the top choice for big game anglers. The deep waters just a few miles offshore make it an ideal launching point for marlin fishing. Most charter boats, including Marlin Fishing Cape Verde, operate from here due to its accessibility, experienced crews, and excellent fishing grounds.

Santo Antão

Just a short ferry ride from São Vicente, Santo Antão is more remote and less developed but equally rich in fishing potential. It’s a great choice for adventurous anglers looking to combine fishing with hiking and nature exploration.

Sal and Boa Vista

These islands are better known for beach holidays and kite surfing, but they also offer decent fishing opportunities, particularly for inshore species.

Why Book with Marlin Fishing Cape Verde?

At Marlin Fishing Cape Verde, we don’t just offer fishing trips—we offer world-class fishing experiences. Whether you're chasing your first marlin or trying to break a personal record, our team is dedicated to making your dream trip come true.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert captains and crew with decades of local experience

• Top-of-the-line boats and fishing equipment

• Flexible charter packages tailored to your goals

• Commitment to sustainable and ethical fishing practices

• Personalized service from booking to landing your catch

We believe every angler deserves a memorable, safe, and successful fishing adventure. That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure every trip with us is the best it can be.

Pro Tips for Planning Your Cape Verde Fishing Trip

1. Book early during peak season – March to July dates can fill up quickly, especially for marlin charters.

2. Pack light, but bring essentials – Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat are must-haves.

3. Know your target species – Decide what you want to catch and plan your trip accordingly.

4. Travel documents – Cape Verde requires a visa for many nationalities. Check entry requirements in advance.

5. Stay longer if possible – Many guests regret not booking extra days. Cape Verde has more to offer than just fishing.

Final Thoughts

Cape Verde is more than just a top fishing destination—it’s a place where passion, nature, and adventure come together in perfect harmony. From the thrill of hooking a Blue Marlin to the serene beauty of the Atlantic at sunrise, fishing here is a life-changing experience.

The best time to fish in Cape Verde ultimately depends on your target species, but for big game anglers, the March to July window is unbeatable. That’s when the giants come out to play, and with the right crew and gear, you can land the catch of a lifetime.