Fishing the Azores

The Azores are particularly well known among anglers in big game circles, but in recent years their potential as a jigging and popping destination has also become increasingly apparent. The islands offer a stable climate in summer with few days of bad weather and very short travel times to the fishing spots. Due to the depth, popper fishing is limited to tuna, which are usually teased to the boat while trolling. When jigging, however, you can catch a wide variety of fish in addition to tuna: large amberjacks and various groupers are the main prey here. There are also great opportunities for shore jigging. The island of Flores is particularly worth mentioning here. This is probably the best spot for shore jigging in all of Europe.

Hotspots for popping

Coasts of Pico and Faial

Perfect for pelagic predators such as tuna and dorado.
The proximity to steep underwater slopes attracts fish to the surface. This charter is the best here.

São Jorge Passage

The passage between São Jorge and Pico is a hotspot for predatory fish.
Particularly suitable for hunting bonito and smaller tuna.

São Miguel Island (north coast)

Here, deeper waters meet rocky coasts, providing ideal conditions for popping.
Frequent catches of mahi-mahi (dorado) and wahoo.
Coasts of Santa Maria

The southernmost island of the Azores is known for its warm currents.
Excellent chances of catching yellowfin tuna!

Best spots for jigging

Banco Condor

An underwater mountain west of Faial that regularly attracts amberjack, grouper, and swordfish.
Particularly productive at depths of 100–200 meters. Heavy equipment is necessary here.

Coastal reefs of Terceira

There are numerous rocky underwater structures around the island of Terceira.
A paradise for jigging enthusiasts targeting amberjacks and groupers.

Formigas Bank

An underwater plateau northeast of Santa Maria.
Known for its variety of predatory fish, including king mackerel and grouper.

Graciosa Island (northwest coast)

Steep slopes and deep reefs offer optimal conditions for jigging for grouper and snapper.

Recommended months: June – September

Fish species:

(In)Shore:

Bluefish, barracuda, triggerfish

Offshore:

Popping: Bigeye tuna

Jigging: Amberjack, grouper, bigeye tuna

Casting: Skipjack, bonito

Recommended lures: