Big Game Fishing in Azores

Wednesday, 15 August 2012 00:00

Fisheries have always played a leading role in the life of the Azores, and today recreational fishing is an attraction for many travelers.

There are two kinds of recreational fishing: leisure fishing from the land, which as the name suggests is a leisure activity, and sport fishing out on the open sea, for which there are several competitions.

Big Game Fishing is another activity that stands out. It is carried out in the open sea, in powerboats, its goal being to catch larger species. These can be caught offshore or just a few miles off the coast, as the absence of a proper continental shelf makes the sea really deep just off the Azorean coast. Among the triangle islands – Faial, Pico and São Jorge – the challenge is always out in the open, but the remaining islands are a good starting point as well. The best season to practice this sport is from April to October. The most frequently caught species are the Swordfish, the Wahoo, the Barracuda, several kinds of tuna, some sharks, the White Marlin and the most wanted species: the great Blue Marlin.

In September, São Miguel Island will host the Sport Fishing International Tournament, entitled Big Game Fishing, which will take place from the 20th to the 26th and is organized by Ponta Delgada's Nautical Club.

The several operators involved in this tournament are also ready for the competition, as they provide fully equipped boats, led by experienced crews who know the best techniques and places for this kind of fishing.

But this is just another great reason to visit the Azores. In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, a few hours away from the European and the North American continents, these nine islands are the ideal place to have some unforgettable vacations at any time of the year. Because of its mild climate all year long, the Azores provide many activities to experience: diving, whale watching, hiking, playing golf or discovering geo-tourism are just a few suggestions on how to enjoy this nature destination, where every day is different.