Seychelles is one of the world's finest fishing destinations, offering two kinds of trip. Big-game offshore fishing from Mahe, Praslin and islands like Denis targets sailfish, marlin, tuna, wahoo and giant trevally, and fits easily into a normal holiday. World-class fly fishing on the remote outer atolls of Alphonse, Astove and Cosmoledo targets bonefish, giant trevally and permit on the flats, booked as specialist fly-in trips. Relaxed reef fishing suits families. The calm months of April to May and October to November are most comfortable.
Seychelles is a serious fishing destination, quietly regarded among anglers as one of the finest in the world. The reason is its geography, granite inner islands ringed by deep water and drop-offs, and remote outer atolls fringed by vast sand flats. Together they offer two very different and equally celebrated kinds of fishing. Here is what to expect and how to plan a trip.
Big-game offshore fishing
Around the inner islands of Mahe, Praslin and the private islands further out, the deep water close to shore makes for outstanding big-game fishing. Boats head out in search of sailfish, marlin, dorado, wahoo, big tuna and the powerful giant trevally. A half or full day offshore is within easy reach of a normal island holiday, and the drop-offs near islands like Denis, on the northern edge of the bank, are particularly prized.
World-class fly fishing on the flats
The other side of Seychelles fishing is its legend. The remote outer atolls, names like Alphonse, Astove, Cosmoledo and the surrounding flats, are among the greatest saltwater fly-fishing destinations on the planet. Wading the shallow flats, anglers cast to bonefish, the prized giant trevally, triggerfish, milkfish and permit, often in water so clear you sight the fish before you cast. These are specialist, fly-in trips to dedicated lodges, booked well ahead, and they are a bucket-list pilgrimage for serious fly fishers.
| Style | Where | Target fish |
|---|---|---|
| Big-game offshore | Mahe, Praslin, Denis and the inner islands | Sailfish, marlin, tuna, wahoo, dorado, giant trevally |
| Fly fishing on the flats | Outer atolls (Alphonse, Astove, Cosmoledo) | Bonefish, giant trevally, triggerfish, milkfish, permit |
| Bottom and reef fishing | Around all the main islands | Snapper, grouper, job fish and more |
What you can catch and the seasons
Fishing is good year round, but the calmer seas of the transition months, April to May and October to November, make for the most comfortable offshore days and the clearest flats. The big-game species run at different times through the year, so if you are targeting a particular fish, ask the operator about timing when you book. Many operators encourage catch and release, especially for the prized fly-fishing species, which is part of why the fishery remains so healthy.
Bottom and reef fishing for everyone
You do not have to be a dedicated angler to enjoy fishing here. Relaxed bottom and reef fishing trips, suitable for families and beginners, run from the main islands and often end with your catch grilled for dinner. It is a fun, accessible half day on the water and a fine way to eat the freshest fish of your life.
How to plan a fishing trip
Decide first which kind of fishing you want, an accessible offshore or reef day from the inner islands, or a specialist fly-fishing expedition to the outer atolls, since the two are planned completely differently. Outer-atoll trips are booked far in advance through dedicated lodges. For inner-island fishing, base yourself on Mahe or Praslin, browse our directory for where to stay, and arrange your day on the water from there.
Frequently asked questions
Is Seychelles good for fishing?
Yes, it is regarded among the best in the world. The inner islands offer excellent big-game offshore fishing, while the remote outer atolls are a legendary saltwater fly-fishing destination.
What fish can you catch in Seychelles?
Offshore, sailfish, marlin, tuna, wahoo, dorado and giant trevally. On the outer-island flats, bonefish, giant trevally, triggerfish, milkfish and permit. Around the reefs, snapper, grouper and job fish.
Where is the best fly fishing in Seychelles?
The remote outer atolls, including Alphonse, Astove and Cosmoledo, are among the greatest saltwater fly-fishing destinations on earth, reached on specialist fly-in trips to dedicated lodges booked well ahead.
When is the best time to go fishing in Seychelles?
Fishing is good year round, but the calmer transition months of April to May and October to November make for the most comfortable offshore days and the clearest flats. Ask the operator about timing for a specific species.
Comment (0)