When it comes to the best marlin fishing in the world, some destinations I have visited immediately come to mind, but so do some others, such as Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and Kona, Hawaii.
However, there are plenty of other fantastic locations where you can catch marlin, including the Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, the Azores, Portugal, the Canary Islands, Spain, and Mauritius.
In this article, we’ll explore these additional hotspots and provide an overview of their marlin fishing potential.
Best Marlin Fishing Spots In The World
| Category | Location | Peak Season | Notable Catches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Marlin | Kona, Hawaii | April – September | 1,376-pound blue marlin |
| Madeira, Portugal | May – October | 1,307-pound blue marlin | |
| Black Marlin | Cairns, Australia | September – December | 1,560-pound black marlin |
| Cabo San Lucas, Mexico | August – December | 1,213-pound black marlin | |
| Lesser-Known | Ascension Island | Year-round | Seven grander blue marlin |
| Seychelles | October – April | Blue and black marlin | |
| Cape Verde | May – October | Multiple World Cup wins | |
| Rodrigues Island, Mauritius | October – April | IGFA men’s 80-pound-test world record | |
| Andaman Islands, India | October – April | Black marlin and blue marlin |
Best Blue Marlin Fishing Locations in the World
Kona, Hawaii
Overview and History of marlin fishing in Kona
Kona, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a marlin angler’s paradise. Known for its calm waters, high ocean temperatures, and year-round presence of blue marlin, Kona has a storied history of marlin fishing dating back to the 1950s. The area is renowned for producing numerous blue-marlin line-class records and granders (marlin weighing over 1,000 pounds).
Seasonality and peak months
While blue marlin can be found in Kona waters throughout the year, the peak season generally runs from April to September. During these months, anglers have the best chance of hooking into a giant blue marlin.
Notable catches and world records
Kona has seen many world-record catches, including the largest blue marlin ever caught on a rod and reel, weighing in at 1,376 pounds. Additionally, numerous granders have been caught in Kona’s waters, solidifying its place among the best marlin fishing destinations.
Madeira, Portugal
Overview and History of marlin fishing in Madeira
Located off the northwestern coast of Africa, Madeira is an archipelago known for its excellent blue marlin fishing. Since the 1980s, Madeira has attracted anglers from around the world seeking to catch massive blue marlin in its deep, clear waters.
Seasonality and peak months
The prime season for marlin fishing in Madeira runs from May to October, with the peak months being June, July, and August. During this time, the waters surrounding Madeira are teeming with large blue marlin.
Notable catches and world records
Madeira has a reputation for producing big fish, with six World Cup wins and numerous marlin over 1,000 pounds reported. In 1995, an enormous 1,307-pound blue marlin was caught in Madeira’s waters, setting a new European record.
Additional locations To Fish For Blue Marlin
- Virgin Islands: The waters surrounding St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands are known for producing massive marlin, making it a popular destination for anglers seeking a big catch.
- Costa Rica: Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, particularly the area around Los Sueños, is famous for its marlin fishing, with both blue and black marlin being caught.
- Azores, Portugal: This island chain in the Atlantic has produced five line-class records for Atlantic blue marlin, including two in the 1,100-pound range.
- Canary Islands, Spain: Off the coast of Africa, these islands offer marlin anglers the opportunity to catch fish of frightening proportions, with six line-class records for Atlantic blues coming from the Canaries.
- Mauritius: This Indian Ocean island nation may be less known, but it produces giant marlin, including an IGFA men’s 80-pound-test world record and numerous fish over 1,000 pounds reported.
Best Black Marlin Fishing Locations in the World
Cairns, Australia
Overview and history of marlin fishing in Cairns
Cairns, located in northeastern Australia, is recognized as one of the top destinations for catching massive black marlin. The waters surrounding the Great Barrier Reef have produced numerous IGFA line-class records for black marlin, making Cairns a must-visit destination for any serious marlin angler.
Seasonality and peak months
The best time to fish for black marlin in Cairns is during the Australian spring and summer months, typically from September to December. During this time, the waters surrounding the Great Barrier Reef are teeming with migrating marlin, providing the perfect opportunity for anglers to land a trophy catch.
Notable catches and world records
Cairns has been home to some of the most impressive black marlin catches in history. Notably, a 1,560-pound black marlin was caught in 1953 by Alfred Glassell Jr., which held the world record for many years.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Overview and History of marlin fishing in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas, situated at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, is another prime destination for black marlin fishing. Known as the “Marlin Capital of the World,” Cabo San Lucas has a rich history of marlin fishing, attracting anglers from all over the globe.
Seasonality and peak months
The peak season for marlin fishing in Cabo San Lucas typically runs from August to December, with October and November being the prime months. During this time, the waters are filled with migrating marlin, providing an abundance of opportunities for anglers.
Notable catches and world records
Cabo San Lucas has been the site of numerous world-record marlin catches. One of the most notable catches occurred during the Bisbee’s Black and Blue Marlin Tournament in 2012, when a team of anglers reeled in a massive 1,213-pound black marlin.
Additional locations To Fish For Black Marlin
While Cairns and Cabo San Lucas are renowned for their black marlin fishing, there are several other destinations worth considering for your next marlin fishing adventure:
- Panama: Piñas Bay is a hot spot for big marlin, with catches such as a 1,200-pound black marlin in 2005.
- Ecuador: Known for its diverse marine life, Ecuador offers ample opportunities for marlin fishing.
- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: A popular destination for anglers, Puerto Vallarta has a thriving marlin fishing scene.
- Fiji: With the potential for grander-sized marlin, Fiji offers a unique fishing experience in a stunning tropical setting.
- Mozambique: Known for its diverse marine life, Mozambique provides excellent opportunities for marlin fishing.
Lesser-Known Marlin Fishing Locations
Ascension Island
- Location: Middle of the Atlantic Ocean
- Highlights: Remote location, rich marine life, at least seven grander blue marlin weighed
- Additional Info:
- A volcanic island with diverse wildlife
- Limited accommodations available; access primarily by military airbase or private yacht
- Green Mountain National Park offers hiking trails and endemic plant species
- Ideal for: Anglers seeking big fish in a challenging yet rewarding environment
Seychelles
- Location: Archipelago in the Indian Ocean
- Highlights: Crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, blue and black marlin
- Additional Info:
- Over 115 islands with luxury resorts and eco-friendly lodges
- Fishing season peaks between October and April
- Home to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Ideal for: Explorers who appreciate pristine environments and diverse fishing grounds
Cape Verde
- Location: Archipelago off the western coast of Africa
- Highlights: Large and plentiful blue marlin, multiple World Cup wins, numerous marlin over 1,000 pounds
- Additional Info:
- Ten volcanic islands with a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian cultures
- Peak marlin season runs from May to October
- Offers various activities, including hiking, surfing, and cultural experiences
- Ideal for: Anglers seeking trophy-sized marlin and a proven fishing destination
Rodrigues Island, Mauritius
- Location: Part of the Republic of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean
- Highlights: IGFA men’s 80-pound-test world record, numerous fish over 1,000 pounds, blue and black marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna
- Additional Info:
- Lesser-known compared to mainland Mauritius
- Offers a relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and coral reefs
- Best fishing season from October to April
- The François Leguat Giant Tortoise and Cave Reserve is a popular attraction
- Ideal for: Fishermen looking for fantastic opportunities in a lesser-known marlin fishing location
Andaman Islands, India
- Location: Bay of Bengal
- Highlights: Remote location, pristine waters, rich marine life, black marlin, blue marlin
- Additional Info:
- Over 300 islands with a mix of indigenous tribes, Indian culture, and British colonial history
- Fishing is highly regulated, with a focus on sustainable practices
- Best fishing season from October to April
- Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island is renowned for its beauty
- Ideal for: Adventurous anglers seeking an untapped fishing destination and the thrill of landing massive marlin in a stunning tropical paradise
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of marlin fishing is vast and diverse, offering a plethora of opportunities for anglers to chase the thrill of landing a trophy-sized catch. While the most famous marlin fishing destinations have their merits, exploring lesser-known locations like Ascension Island, Seychelles, Cape Verde, Rodrigues Island in Mauritius, and the Andaman Islands in India can provide unique and rewarding experiences. Each of these locations offers not only exceptional fishing opportunities but also breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the chance to create unforgettable memories.
As you venture off the beaten path, you may find yourself immersed in some of the most pristine environments on Earth, with unparalleled marine life and untouched fishing grounds. The thrill of landing a massive marlin in these stunning tropical paradises is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will cherish for years to come. So, pack your gear, grab your passport, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you explore these hidden gems of the marlin fishing world.
