Fishing Azores Islands

The Azores are well known among big game fishermen, but in the last years their potential as a jigging and popping destination has been revealed. The islands offer a stable climate throughout the summer and very short access routes to the fishing spots. Popping is restricted to Bigeye Tunas and Bluefin Tunas. However when jigging you can catch a rich array of fish: big Amberjack and various species of Grouper being the main target. The Azores are also a paradise for shore jigging. Especially the island Flores is perfect for this kind of fishing and probably the best all around Europe for big groupers from the shore.

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Top Spots for Popping

1. Coasts of Pico and Faial

   • Ideal for pelagic predators like bluefin tuna and dorado.
   • The proximity to steep underwater slopes attracts fish near the surface. Try this charter for best results.

2. São Jorge Passage

   • The channel between São Jorge and Pico is a hotspot for predatory fish.
   • Great for targeting bonito and smaller tuna species.

3. São Miguel Island (North Coast)

   • Deep waters meet rocky shorelines, creating perfect conditions for popping.
   • Frequent sightings of mahi-mahi (dorado) and wahoos.

4. Coasts of Santa Maria

   • The southernmost Azorean island benefits from warm currents.
   • Excellent opportunities to catch large yellowfin tuna on poppers.

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Top Spots for Jigging

1. Banco Condor

   • A seamount west of Faial that regularly attracts amberjack, grouper, and swordfish.
   • Especially productive at depths of 100–200 meters. Bring heavy gear.

2. Coastal Reefs of Terceira

   • The waters around Terceira are rich in rocky underwater structures.
   • A paradise for jigging enthusiasts targeting amberjack and grouper.

3. Formigas Bank

   • An underwater plateau northeast of Santa Maria.
   • Known for its diversity of predatory fish, including wahoo and grouper.

4. Princesa Alice Bank

   • Located about 50 nautical miles southwest of Pico.
   • This famous deep-sea hotspot is perfect for jigging and offers excellent chances for trophy amberjack and tuna.

5. Graciosa Island (Northwest Coast)

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

Fish species

(In)Shore:

Bluefish, Barracuda, Triggerfish

Offshore:

Popping: Bigeye-Tuna, Bluefin Tuna

Jigging: Amberjack, Grouper, Bigeye-Tuna

Casting: Skipjack, Bonito

Recommended Months: May – September

Recommended lures: