Fishing in Madeira

Madeira is particularly well known among big game anglers for its huge marlin, but in recent years its potential as a jigging and popping destination has also become increasingly apparent. The islands offer a pleasant climate with few days of bad weather and a very short journey to the fishing spots. Popper fishing is limited to the fall, when bluefin tuna prey near the island. When jigging, on the other hand, you can catch a colorful array of fish in addition to tuna: large amberjacks, groupers, and various snappers are the main catch here

Recommended months: August – November

Fishing spots

1. Funchal

Spot: The capital city of Funchal is a great starting point for deep-sea fishing trips. In the waters off Funchal, you can catch various large fish such as marlin, tuna, swordfish, and dorado.

Tip: Numerous providers offer guided tours that take you to the best deep-sea fishing spots around Madeira. The provider Madeira Sight Cast offers tours for jigging for red porgy and amberjack.

2. Câmara de Lobos

Spot: This picturesque fishing community near Funchal is known for its fishing tradition. Here you can fish from the shore or head out to sea on small fishing boats. The main fish species are grouper, mackerel, and pargos.
Tip: The harbor entrance is a particularly popular spot.

3. Porto Moniz

Spot: Porto Moniz is located in the northwest of Madeira and is known for its natural lava pools. It is a great place for shore fishing, and the rocky coastline offers a variety of fish species.

Tip: The area is ideal for spin fishing. The best spots are near the old pools, where large bluefish and amberjack can be found.

4. Machico

Spot: Machico, one of the oldest towns in Madeira, offers excellent opportunities for coastal fishing. Here you will find a beautiful mix of sandy beaches and rocky sections that are ideal for various fishing techniques.
Tip: Here you can often observe feeding frenzies of skijacks on the sandy beaches.

5. Ponta de São Lourenço

Spot: At the eastern end of Madeira lies Ponta de São Lourenço, a rocky headland known for its clear waters and diverse underwater world. Fishing in this region is particularly exciting as the waters are deeper.
Tip: Barracudas and bluefish can often be caught here, preferably in the early morning.

6. Paul do Mar

Spot: Paul do Mar on the southwest coast of Madeira is another quiet fishing village that is particularly well suited for coastal fishing. The steep cliffs and deep waters make it a good place to catch big fish.
Tip: The area is known for bonito, barracuda, and wrasse.

7. Seixal

Spot: Seixal is located in the north of Madeira and is a quiet coastal town with great fishing opportunities. The rocky bays here are ideal for fishing.
Tip: Particularly suitable for groupers and smaller species that live in rocky areas. The bay directly next to the restaurants offers good fishing opportunities.

Fish species:

(In)Shore:

Bluefish, Barracuda, Grouper , Almaco Jack

Offshore:

Popping: Bluefin Tuna

Jigging: Amberjack, Grouper, Red Snapper

Casting: Albacore, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi

Recommended lures: