Blue Marlin fishing in Madeira has for many years been the go-to place for many specimen hunters who dream of landing that Marlin of a lifetime, a ‘Grander’ a Blue Marlin the exceeds 1000lb. Madeira produces each year more fish approaching this size than many other countries around the world. Their amazing average size Blue Marlin is around 700lb, that is an amazing size average. Madeira enters the Blue Marlin World Cup each year and has taken the prestigious trophy on more than one occasion, it truly is the Marlin hunters paradise of the world.
Location
The Island of Madeira is located in the Atlantic Ocean a mere 621 miles from Lisbon, this vibrant, sub-tropical Island is lapped by the warm waters of the gulf stream and benefits from comfortable warm summers and very mild winter temperatures making this an ideal all year round holiday retreat.
For the travelling sport fishermen, the conditions couldn’t get much better for the summer months between May and October brings with it an abundance of Atlantic Blue Marlin, with July and August being the peak times and then a good run in September of the bigger fish. In the winter months from February to late April when the waters are cooler you will see a good run of Giant Bluefin Tuna and Big Eye Tuna which regularly get caught. Average sized Giant Bluefin runs between 300 to 600lb and is generally caught further out than the Marlin.
Madeira has built its history in the Marlin world over a very short time but with huge success. The fishery was discovered back in the 1970s when supposedly Dr Antonio Ribeiro was the first person to catch a Blue Marlin of Madeira, this fish weighed 740lb. Apparently his two sons Roberto and Joe still religiously fish for Blue Marlin and carry on the legend of their father.
Fishing
The main Blue Marlin season in Madeira runs from May to October and has a huge average catch of around 700lb which is music to a sport anglers dreams. Around one in ten Marlin exceed the magical 1000lb bracket and is what attracts so many Marlin hunters to Madeira each year.
This Island is made up of volcanic rock which rises from the sea bed given the fishing grounds that surround the island the perfect habitat to attract the Blue Marlin. Within 5 minutes of leaving the marina, you will be fishing as the depths straight from the island is deep meaning you do not waste any time during your day travelling to faraway fishing areas.
Once the boat leaves the marina a spread of artificial lures will be put out in a formation using the outriggers, normally there will be two outside rods and two centre rods along with some teasers. The rods included in your boat package are top of the range Shimano and Penn rods built specifically for Marlin fishing and come complete with big game multipliers loaded with mono. All lures are also included but if you have a favourite you would like to try then simply as the captain as he will be more than happy to help rig it up. Fishing is normally around 8hrs per day and picks up and drop off will be discussed when you arrive.
The Balancal Game boat is powered by twin-engine motors and is suitable for up to 8 people and has a flybridge with covered helm. An original Pompanette fighting chair all the way from Florida is positioned at the stern to take the heat from any Marlin fight you may get.
Guides
You will also find the best Mid-Atlantic big game fishing crew and equipment to be found anywhere in Madeira. For experienced anglers, or for those wishing for an introduction to big game fishing, under their careful instruction, you can learn to experience the thrill of the rod and reel while doing battle with your Blue Marlin. Our boat is fully equipped for all sport fishing requirements and ready for you to cruise the bountiful waters of Madeira.
If you have any questions on the Blue Marlin fishing holidays we offer then contact us in the office, our experienced team will be happy to help you with any queries you have. Additionally, you can request a free brochure.