The deep water close to Cape Verde's coasts makes for exceptional sport fishing — the islands are internationally known for blue marlin, and boats reach serious depths within minutes of leaving harbour. Alongside that sits the everyday reality of Cape Verdean fishing: brightly painted boats, hand lines and the day's catch sold on the beach.
What you can catch
Blue marlin is the headline species, with the peak season running roughly from April to September. Yellowfin tuna, wahoo, dorado and sailfish are caught through much of the year, and inshore fishing produces barracuda, jacks and snapper. Many charters practise tag-and-release for billfish.
Deep-sea charters
Charters operate mainly from Santa Maria on Sal and Mindelo on São Vicente, with boats also available on Boa Vista and Santiago. A half-day typically runs from around €400–600 for the boat, a full day considerably more, usually including tackle, bait and crew — check whether the price is per boat or per person.
Local fishing culture
Fishing is woven into island life. Early mornings on almost any beach bring boats returning with tuna and wahoo, and the fish market in Mindelo is a spectacle in itself. Some visitors arrange to go out with local fishermen on small boats — an informal, memorable and much cheaper alternative to a charter, and a good way to support the local economy. See food and drink for what happens to the catch.
Practicalities
Book charters ahead in the marlin season, take seasickness precautions, and be clear about the boat's policy on keeping fish. Licences are handled by the operator for charter fishing.
- Peak marlin: roughly April to September.
- Confirm whether pricing is per boat or per angler.
- Bring sun protection, a hat and a windproof layer.
- Ask about tag-and-release policies if that matters to you.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cape Verde good for fishing?
Yes — it has an international reputation for blue marlin, with deep water close to shore and strong tuna, wahoo and dorado fishing.
When is the marlin season in Cape Verde?
Roughly April to September, with the peak in the middle of that window. Other species are caught year-round.
How much does a fishing charter cost in Cape Verde?
Typically from around €400–600 for a half-day boat charter, with full days costing more. Confirm whether the price is per boat or per person.