Rules and best time to go
Fishing is possible all year round in the 1.4 million square kilometres of Seychelles fishing grounds. Big-game anglers ("big-game fishing") prefer the months from June to October, while the rest of the year suits fly fishing and bottom fishing better. Recreational anglers do not need a fishing licence, either from the shore or from a boat. There are hardly any shops where you can buy bait or rent tackle, but the companies that run fishing trips will supply their guests with the necessary equipment if you do not bring your own. Some airlines carry fishing gear as sports luggage at a special rate, or even free of charge.
Anglers have to observe a number of conservation rules. In certain areas fishing is completely banned or restricted for these reasons. The waters are patrolled by park wardens. Using spearguns (and even bringing them into the country) is strictly forbidden. Among sport anglers it is customary to release the fish alive after the usual photo ("catch and release").
Seasons
On the Outer Islands, the operators distinguish between two periods. From October to May the wind is lighter, the sea calmer and there is more rain. This is the main season for fishing the sand flats. From June to September it is windier and drier, which makes casting with a fly rod harder. For general information on wind and rain, see Climate & Weather and Best Time to Travel.
Big-game fishing and bottom fishing
Why not charter one of the many excellent boats with an experienced crew and head south, out into the seemingly endless expanse of the ocean, until you reach the Turcos Bank? The water here teems with tuna, jackfish, dorado, streaker, kingfish, sailfish and marlin. On the way you can also stop and try your hand at the traditional art of palangrotte, or bottom fishing!
Bottom fishing means fishing at the seabed. You bait a long, weighted line and let it trail along the bottom at a depth of about 50 m. You will be surprised, because palangrotte fishing rewards you with the tastiest fish to be found in this area. Ask the crew to fillet a freshly caught tuna or bonito, and enjoy the ultimate sushi platter with a cold beer while you wait for the next bite.
Another option is to find a spot close to the coast and try your luck at night fishing. The "bekin", or pickhandle barracuda, is exciting to catch and excellent grilled.
Charter: duration, distance and cost
Boats leave from Mahé at Eden Island, Bel Ombre and Victoria harbour, among other places, and also from Praslin and La Digue. Departure times are usually between 5 and 7 am. Prices are per boat, normally for up to four people, or up to six on larger boats. Equipment is generally included, while food and drinks depend on the operator. The figures have been checked against operator information; the ranges depend on the boat, the season and fuel costs.
| Type of trip | Duration and distance | Guide price per boat (as of November 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Half-day trip, close to the coast | about 4 hours, 5 to 10 nautical miles, more for fun than for big fish | €250–€550 |
| Full-day trip | 7 to 8 hours, 10 to 17 nautical miles, trolling and bottom fishing | €450–€850 |
| Big game, drop-off | 9 to 11 hours, 23 to 25 nautical miles, water depths of up to about 2,000 m | from about €1,250 |
Tournaments
Several fishing competitions are held in the Seychelles over the course of the year. For visitors from abroad, the most interesting is the IGFA Fishing Tournament, which according to the tourist board takes place in October. The Seychelles Sports Fishing Club, a club registered with the IGFA, organises a whole series of other tournaments. Dates change, and the overview below shows the months in the 2025 calendar. For current dates, ask the club or check the events calendar.
| Month (2025 calendar) | Tournament |
|---|---|
| February | Marlin Slam |
| April | National Fishing Tournament |
| May | Praslin Offshore Fishing Tournament |
| June | Trevally Cup |
| August | South East Monsoon Sailfish |
| September | Yellowfin Tuna Cup |
| October | La Digue Tournament |
| November | Big Game Classic |
Where to fish
The waters around Silhouette are particularly rich in fish, and in the right season sailfish are especially easy to catch here. There are also a few excellent spots for bottom fishing nearby. A day's fishing around Praslin or La Digue rewards you with a good catch and an impressive view. The area around the twin coral islands of Denis and Bird is known above all for marlin.
Fly fishing on the Outer Islands
An expedition to the Amirantes or beyond Alphonse takes you into the remote, barely fished waters of the Outer Islands. The areas around St François and St Joseph atolls are becoming a mecca for fly fishers from all over the world, thanks to the record bonefish and trevally that have already been caught here.
Alphonse lies about 400 km south-west of Mahé and can only be reached by charter flight, see domestic flights. Fishing at St François Atoll is limited, with only about 12 fly fishers allowed to fish there at any one time. The lodges offer weekly packages including accommodation and a guide. For seven to nine days they start at about £14,000, or around US$18,000, per person (as of November 2026). Most fishing is done on foot on the sand flats, supplemented by fishing from a skiff. For giant trevally, operators recommend bringing your own heavy fly rod; rental equipment is available on site.
Planning and tips
Wherever your compass takes you, you will find unspoilt, deserted waters with plenty of room for real adventure. You can also plan trips through boat tours.
Back to sailing in the Seychelles or on to diving.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a fishing licence?
No. According to the Seychelles Fishing Authority, recreational anglers do not need a licence. Protected areas and the ban on spearfishing still apply.
Can I fish without a boat?
Yes, shore fishing is possible outside the protected areas, for example at night for barracuda. Ask locally where it is allowed.
Are the trips suitable for beginners?
Yes. The half-day trips close to the coast are meant for beginners, but you cannot count on big fish such as marlin there. For those you need a full-day trip out to the drop-off.
Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes, some airlines carry it as sports baggage, either at a special rate or free of charge. Otherwise the charter operators provide equipment.
