Seychelles Fishing Season Calendar 2026

Sep 12, 2025

The pristine waters surrounding the Seychelles archipelago offer some of the world's most exceptional fishing opportunities, making it a premier destination for anglers seeking both trophy catches and unforgettable experiences. Understanding the Seychelles fishing season patterns proves essential for planning the perfect fishing adventure, whether you're targeting massive blue marlin or delicate bonefish on the flats.

Why Seychelles Offers World-Class Fishing Year-Round

The Seychelles archipelago represents one of the planet's most pristine fishing destinations. Crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life create ideal conditions for both novice and experienced anglers. The islands' strategic location along major migratory routes ensures consistent fish populations throughout the year, while the tropical climate maintains optimal water temperatures for active feeding.

Tropical Climate Benefits and Pristine Waters

The consistent tropical climate of Seychelles maintains water temperatures between 26 and 29°C year-round, creating perfect conditions for pelagic species. These warm waters support an incredibly diverse marine ecosystem, from surface-feeding sailfish to deep-dwelling groupers. The minimal industrial development around the islands ensures exceptional water clarity, often exceeding 30 meters of visibility, which significantly enhances fishing success rates.

You'll find the water so clear it's almost like fishing in an aquarium. The lack of pollution means fish populations remain healthy, aggressive, and ready to bite.

Remote Fishing Grounds Accessible Only by Yacht Charter

Many of Seychelles' most productive fishing areas lie in remote locations accessible only through professional yacht charters. These pristine fishing grounds, including the famous Seychelles Bank and outer atolls, remain largely unfished due to their distance from shore. Charter vessels provide access to these exclusive areas where fish populations remain healthy and aggressive.

Picture this: fishing spots that see maybe a dozen boats per month. That's the reality at these remote locations.

Professional Fishing Guides and Local Expertise

Seychelles fishing success relies heavily on local knowledge accumulated over generations. Professional guides understand seasonal migration patterns, optimal tide timings, and the subtle environmental factors that influence fish behavior. Their expertise becomes invaluable when navigating the complex seasonal variations, ensuring guests maximize their time on the water during peak activity periods.

Complete Seychelles Fishing Season Breakdown by Month

Understanding the Seychelles fishing season requires recognizing how the Indian Ocean's monsoon patterns influence marine life behavior throughout the year. The archipelago experiences two distinct monsoon seasons that dramatically affect sea conditions, fish migrations, and overall fishing success rates.

Monsoon Impact and Weather Patterns Throughout the Year

The Southeast Monsoon (May to September) brings stronger winds and rougher seas. The Northwest Monsoon (October to April) provides calmer conditions ideal for offshore fishing. During transition periods in April and October, anglers often experience the most productive fishing as changing weather patterns trigger increased feeding activity among pelagic species.

These transition periods? Pure magic for fishing.

October to May Optimal Conditions

The Seychelles fishing season reaches its absolute peak during the Northwest Monsoon period, when calm seas allow comfortable access to deep-water fishing grounds. During these months, surface water temperatures rise slightly, attracting baitfish closer to shore and subsequently drawing larger predatory species into the range of charter vessels. Visibility remains excellent, and the reduced wind creates ideal conditions for various fishing techniques.

May to September Benefits

The Southeast Monsoon period offers unique advantages for specific fishing techniques. The rougher conditions concentrate fish around reef structures and drop-offs, making bottom fishing and jigging extremely productive. Many experienced anglers prefer this period for targeting reef species and enjoying less crowded fishing grounds.

Don't write off the "off-season" - some of the biggest fish get caught when most tourists stay home.

Target Fish Species and Peak Season Calendar

The diversity of fish species available in Seychelles waters throughout the year makes it essential to understand when specific targets are most active. Each species follows distinct seasonal patterns influenced by water temperature, food availability, and breeding cycles.

November to April Prime Time

The premier game fish of the Indian Ocean, both blue and black marlin, reach peak activity during the warmer months. These magnificent billfish follow baitfish schools that concentrate around the islands during the Northwest Monsoon, providing exceptional trolling opportunities. Blue marlin range from 150-400 pounds. Black marlin can exceed 500 pounds in these waters.

When the marlin are running, everything else becomes background noise.

October to March Optimal Conditions

Sailfish arrive in large numbers as the fishing season enters its prime period, often providing multiple hookups during single outings. These acrobatic fighters prefer the calmer seas and increased baitfish activity of the Northwest Monsoon. Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) follow similar patterns, with bulls reaching impressive sizes during peak season feeding frenzies.

Year-Round Availability with Seasonal Peaks

Yellowfin tuna remain available throughout the entire Seychelles fishing season, showing increased activity during cooler water periods. These powerful fish provide excellent sport on both trolling and jigging techniques, with specimens regularly exceeding 50 kilograms in Seychelles waters.

Giant Trevally and Bonefish

The flats around Seychelles atolls support world-class populations of giant trevally and bonefish during the calmer months. These species require sight fishing techniques and provide some of the most challenging and rewarding angling experiences available anywhere in the world.

Seeing a massive GT cruising the flats in gin-clear water . . . that's what fishing dreams are made of.

May to September

The rougher conditions of the Southeast Monsoon create perfect opportunities for bottom fishing species. Dogtooth tuna, various grouper species, and amberjack become more accessible during this period as they concentrate around reef structures and seamounts.

Premier Seychelles Fishing Locations for Yacht Charters

The scattered nature of the Seychelles archipelago creates numerous distinct fishing environments, each offering unique opportunities depending on the time of year and target species. Professional charter services provide access to these diverse locations through carefully planned itineraries.

Mahé Island Deep Sea Fishing Grounds

The waters surrounding Mahé offer the most accessible deep-sea fishing opportunities, with the continental shelf dropping to over 1000 meters within a few kilometers of shore. The Seychelles Bank extends northward from Mahé, creating upwelling areas that concentrate baitfish and attract pelagic predators.

Praslin and La Digue Coastal Fishing Areas

The inner islands of Praslin and La Digue provide excellent coastal fishing opportunities for families and beginners. These areas offer protected waters during rough weather periods while maintaining access to quality fishing for smaller pelagic species and reef fish.

Perfect for when the weather turns nasty but you still want to wet a line.

Alphonse, Cosmoledo, and Farquhar Exclusive Access

The remote outer atolls represent the pinnacle of Seychelles fishing experiences, accessible only through multi-day charter expeditions. These pristine environments support healthy populations of all major species while providing the solitude that serious anglers seek.

Continental Shelf and Protected Marine Areas

The dramatic underwater topography around Seychelles creates natural fish aggregation areas along drop-offs and seamounts. Many of these productive areas lie within marine protected zones that require special permits and adherence to conservation guidelines.

Best Fishing Techniques for Seychelles Waters

Success in Seychelles waters depends on matching fishing techniques to seasonal conditions and target species. Professional charter services provide all necessary equipment while sharing the local knowledge essential for selecting and executing strategies.

Trolling for Pelagic Species

Trolling remains the most productive technique for billfish and large tuna during the prime Seychelles fishing season months. High-speed trolling with lures effectively covers water while searching for active fish during early morning and late afternoon feeding periods.

When the fish are scattered, trolling allows you to find them quickly.

Bottom Jigging and Fly Fishing Techniques

Vertical jigging produces excellent results for deeper species during the Southeast Monsoon when fish concentrate around structure. Fly fishing on the flats requires specialized equipment and techniques but offers some of the most exciting sight fishing opportunities available.

Popping, Spinning, and Live Bait Strategies

Surface popping creates explosive action when fish are feeding actively near the surface. Live bait fishing with locally caught specimens often produces the largest fish during peak feeding periods.

Nothing beats a live bonito for bringing up something truly massive from the depths.

Luxury Fishing Yacht Charter Options in Seychelles

Professional yacht charters provide the foundation for successful Seychelles fishing adventures, offering everything from basic transportation to complete luxury experiences. The choice of vessel significantly impacts both comfort and fishing success.

Sport Fishing Boats and Catamaran Charters

Dedicated sport fishing vessels offer the best platform for serious angling, with specialized equipment, fighting chairs, and experienced crews. Catamaran charters provide stability and space advantages for families or groups seeking combined fishing and leisure activities.

Multi-Day Expeditions and All-Inclusive Packages

Extended charters allow access to remote fishing grounds while providing time to target multiple species. All-inclusive packages eliminate planning stress while ensuring access to quality equipment, experienced crews, and local expertise.

Private Yacht Charters with Professional Crew

Private charters offer maximum flexibility and personalization, allowing guests to customize itineraries based on conditions and preferences. Professional crews bring essential local knowledge while handling all technical aspects of fishing and navigation.

Budget-Friendly Shared Charter Options

Shared charters make Seychelles fishing accessible to budget-conscious anglers while maintaining access to quality equipment and professional guidance. These options work well during peak fishing season periods when fish activity remains high.

Gateway to Seychelles Fishing Adventures on Mahé Island

As the central hub of the Seychelles, Mahé Island provides the primary departure point for most fishing charters while offering excellent fishing opportunities in its own surrounding waters.

Victoria and Eden Island Marina Departure Points

Victoria Harbour and Eden Island Marina serve as the main departure points for fishing charters, offering modern facilities and easy access to deep water. Both locations provide fuel, supplies, and professional charter services with various vessel options.

Eden Island feels more upscale, but Victoria has that authentic local fishing vibe.

Half-Day and Full-Day Fishing Options from Mahé

Mahé's proximity to productive fishing grounds makes it ideal for both half-day introductory trips and full-day adventures. The flexibility allows visitors to combine fishing with other Seychelles activities while still experiencing quality angling.

Shore Fishing and Sightseeing Combinations

The coastline around Mahé offers good shore fishing opportunities for those preferring land-based angling. Many charter services combine fishing with sightseeing tours, providing a comprehensive Seychelles experience that appeals to diverse group interests.

Yacht Charter Activities Beyond Sport Fishing

Modern fishing charters often incorporate additional activities that appeal to non-fishing family members while maximizing the value of time spent on the water.

Snorkeling, Diving, and Beach Hopping Adventures

The crystal-clear waters that make Seychelles famous for fishing also provide exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities. Many fishing charters include stops at pristine beaches and coral reefs, creating memorable experiences for all participants.

Sunset Cruises and Island Hopping with Fishing

Evening fishing often coincides with spectacular sunset viewing opportunities, while island-hopping charters allow exploration of multiple fishing areas during single trips. These combinations work well during peak Seychelles fishing season periods when calm conditions prevail.

Family-Friendly and Romantic Fishing Getaways

Professional charter services customize experiences for families with children or couples seeking romantic adventures. These specialized trips often focus on smaller species and calmer techniques while maintaining the excitement of fishing in paradise.

Kids get bored with big game fishing, but they go crazy for colorful reef fish.

Professional Fishing Charter Services and Expert Guides

The success of any Seychelles fishing adventure depends heavily on the quality of professional services provided by charter operators and their crews.

Certified Captains with Local Knowledge

Experienced captains bring decades of local knowledge about fish behavior, seasonal patterns, and optimal fishing locations. Their expertise becomes valuable during transition periods of the Seychelles fishing season when conditions change rapidly.

Professional Equipment, Safety, and Fish Preparation

Quality charter services provide well-maintained fishing equipment, comprehensive safety gear, and fish preparation services. These amenities ensure guest safety while maximizing fishing success and convenience throughout the experience.

Customized Itineraries and Photography Services

Professional operators customize trips based on guest preferences, experience levels, and specific target species. Many also provide photography services to document trophy catches and memorable moments.

Getting that perfect fish photo is more complicated than it looks - let the pros handle it.

Seychelles Weather and Optimal Fishing Conditions

Understanding weather patterns and their impact on fishing success allows anglers to plan optimal timing for their Seychelles adventures.

Monsoon Seasons and Transition Periods

The two monsoon seasons create distinctly different fishing conditions, with transition periods often providing the most productive angling. Thoughtful planning around these patterns maximizes success.

Daily Weather Patterns and Best Fishing Times

Early morning and late afternoon provide the best fishing conditions, with calmer winds and increased fish activity. Understanding these daily patterns helps optimize fishing time and select the most effective technique.

Moon Phases, Tides, and Sea Safety Considerations

Moon phases and tidal movements significantly influence fish behavior for bottom species and flats fishing. Professional charter services monitor these factors while maintaining strict safety protocols.

The locals swear by fishing on the new moon. Something about how it makes the fish more aggressive.

Planning Your Seychelles Fishing Yacht Charter

Proper planning ensures maximum enjoyment and success during Seychelles fishing adventures, from initial booking through the actual fishing experience.

Choosing the Right Yacht Size and Marina Facilities

Vessel selection depends on group size, trip duration, and desired comfort level. Modern marina facilities provide secure departure points with fuel, supplies, and professional support services.

Essential Gear and Travel Insurance Requirements

Charter services provide fishing equipment, but guests should bring appropriate clothing, sun protection, and personal items. Comprehensive travel insurance should cover fishing activities and potential weather delays.

Advance Booking and Payment Policies

Peak Seychelles fishing season periods require booking to secure preferred dates and vessels. Understanding payment schedules and cancellation policies protects both guests and operators from unexpected changes.

Book early or risk disappointment - the best boats fill up fast during prime season.

Why CharterClick is Your Best Choice for Seychelles Fishing

CharterClick stands out among Seychelles charter operators through comprehensive local expertise, professional service standards, and commitment to guest satisfaction.

Local Expertise and Professional Safety Standards

Our experienced team brings decades of combined Seychelles fishing knowledge while maintaining the highest safety standards. All vessels undergo regular maintenance and safety inspections to ensure guest security throughout the Seychelles fishing season.

Customized Itineraries and Quality Equipment

CharterClick customizes every charter based on guest preferences, experience levels, and seasonal conditions. We provide top-quality fishing equipment and maintain strong relationships with the most experienced local captains and crews.

Competitive Pricing and 24/7 Customer Support

Transparent pricing without hidden fees makes budget planning simple, while 24/7 customer support ensures assistance whenever needed during your adventure.