If some first-class Tuna fishing has always been on our bucket list, then our dedicated Yellowfin Tuna fishing tour to Cape Town in South Africa will tick all the right boxes. In conjunction with our good friends and partners, CapTuna, we can offer some of the best Tuna fishing found anywhere in the world, both regarding the numbers of fish and those with an excellent average size.
Located in the famous region of Hout Bay, a seaside suburb of Cape Town, the fishing grounds are situated offshore where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans collide. Here, the waters are rich with nutrients, attracting hordes of baitfish, followed by a stack of hungry predators. The Yellowfin Tuna reigns supreme in these waters and is the number one target for travelling rods, reaching sizes of over 200lb. However, it’s also possible to target and catch an array of other species, including Big Eye and Skipjack Tuna, Cape Yellowtail and Cape Snoek.
All fishing gets done onboard the “Rapid Cat” vessels. They are the perfect choice for navigating offshore waters and make the ideal fishing platform. They are 28 feet long and offer excellent stability and comfort. If you’d like to learn more about the fantastic Tuna fishing on offer in South Africa, at Hout Bay, visit our YouTube channel.
The Tuna fishing off the coast of Hout Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, is some of the most prolific in the world. The big Yellowfin run in large numbers during the peak weeks of the season, and the sport can be frantic. As with all saltwater fishing, the fishing is dictated by the weather, tides and ocean temperatures, but when all these things align, it’s not unusual to catch multiple fish per day.
Although a range of Tuna are available to catch, the most popular and prolific among travelling rods is the Yellowfin. These beautiful fish, metallic blue and silver in colouration, with bright yellow fins, are warm-blooded and built for speed, making them incredibly powerful swimmers. They can reach speeds of up to fifty miles per hour and navigate enormous distances across oceans. These characteristics make them incredible fighting fish and a species on many big game anglers’ bucket lists.
They are capable of diving to considerable depths but are typically found offshore in waters up to 100m deep. Often travelling in schools of similarly sized companions, they feed on a range of baitfish, crustaceans, and squid. The Yellowfin Tuna is among the larger Tuna species and can grow to over 400lb, but it is significantly smaller than the Atlantic and Bluefin, it’s also closely related to the Bigeye.
When targeting the Yellowfin Tuna of Hout Bay, many different fishing methods can be used. However, the most popular and effective is trolling artificial lures and teasers. These attract the fish from the depths and close to the boat, and it’s common to see them striking lures just under, and on the surface of the water. As well as lures, it’s also popular to troll fish baits on outriggers, especially once the shoals of fish have been located. All bait and trolling tackle is included.
For those anglers looking for something different or a more ‘active’ approach, it’s possible to popper and jig fish for the Yellowfin. This can be an exceptionally rewarding and explosive way of catching them. Each season we also have groups of adventurous anglers who target the Tuna on the fly. These supercharged fish provide a true challenge and hooking and landing one of these on a fly rod is a fishing experience that will live long in the memory. If you speak to your skipper each day and let him know what you’d like to experience from your fishing day, he will do his best to try and fulfil your wishes.
The Tuna fishing season at Hout Bay is split into two. The first part of the season runs from the middle of March to the end of June and this is the most popular time to visit, both in terms of the fishing and weather. The second half of the season runs from October to December, during these months the fishing can be excellent, but the weather more unstable.
Our Yellowfin Tuna charter fishing boats are some of the best in the region, they are perfect for fishing from and navigating the offshore waters of Hout Bay. Known as the ‘Rapid Cats’, the vessels are 28ft long and SAMSA safety registered, they are extremely comfortable and offer a full walk around deck.
All are fully equipped with the best tackle and accessories, including some of the best electronics, giving our operation the edge over others in the region. They utilise Furuno NavNet TZTouch3, which with it’s cutting-edge multifunction display sets a new standard in marine navigation and fish finding technology. They also use the Furuno NavPilot 300 Autopilot and the Furuno DRS-NXT Radar. These things not only aid with the fishing, but also safety. Our destination has a 100% fishing safety record and you can feel secure when stepping aboard and simply enjoy your time on the water.
Whilst fishing with us in South Africa, you will be in the very best hands, as all our skippers and crew are highly experienced and passionate about what they do. They have been fishing offshore for Yellowfin Tuna for many years and are experts in their fields. They are also able to cater for guest of all abilities, whether you are a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport.
The hotel packaged on our Tuna fishing trip is located in a picturesque fishing village called Hout Bay and offers a wide array of exciting shops and restaurants. With its proximity to Cape Town being only a 20-minute drive, this is the perfect base for a great holiday; whether you decide to fish for your whole stay or take in some of the attractions, you won’t be far from everything. The long sandy beach that circles the bay is tranquil and is the perfect place to relax and take a dip whilst watching the world go passed. There are also many water activities booked independently.
Chapmans Peak hotel has been part of this fishing village since the early 1900s and was the community’s local landmark. With a backdrop of deep green foliage of milk woods and standing in Constantiaberg mountain’s shadows, this hotel has undergone considerable change during its existence. Still, it has always remained a fine example of a seaside hotel.
In 2009 the hotel created an entirely new wing with 22 tastefully decorated rooms with two spacious penthouse suites. With its proximity to the beach, it proved to be a winning formula for visiting guests.
These new spacious rooms all benefited from spectacular views of Hout Bay beach, which is widely renowned as one of the finest beaches in South Africa. With 24 contemporary modern rooms, 10 of the existing charming rooms and historical building and a trendy restaurant, this hotel is truly a place of luxurious comfort.
Each room of 39 square meters benefits from the most spectacular views of Hout Bay beach and surrounding mountains unique in this area. The rooms can either be configured with twin beds or king-size beds to suit your needs. Each room has a private en-suite bathroom separated from the bedrooms by wooden shutters so you can enjoy the view whilst taking a soak. The bathrooms feature a bath for two people, a separate shower cubicle, double basins, underfloor heating and an enclosed toilet area. Other facilities in the rooms include a couch, desk and work station, flat-screen TV, minibar and tea/coffee making facilities. The rooms also have a private balcony with outdoor seating facilities.
Chapmans Peak restaurant has built a considerable reputation around Cape Town for some of the finest seafood available. With its fresh daily menus constructed from decades of serving the guests, you will soon see why this hotel’s reputation known around this part of the world.
The sun terrace outside the restaurant is where it all happens and is the ideal place to sit and relax while eating some of the finest seafood around. You will benefit from the stunning sunsets and views across the bay whilst sipping on your after-dinner drinks. Each day’s menu consists of locally sourced fresh fish from the west coast Lobster, Prawns, Calamari, and much different fish. Seafood may well be the restaurant’s speciality; however, its grilled steaks and fresh salads are also a draw by many visiting guests. Along with the great food on offer, they have a wide selection of wines from around the globe, local and imported beers and of course, if you like to try something different, then there is always the extensive cocktail list.
The Cape Peninsula provides a setting for many scenic wonders, magnificent seascapes and panoramic vistas. The beautiful coastal areas of Camps Bay, Clifton, Llandudno, Bantry Bay, Hout Bay, and Blouberg surround the Winelands’ breath-taking tranquillity, Constantia Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. You can book many attractions with the hotel reception and some that you must take time to visit. If you require a list of other activities, please ask a member of the Sportquest Holidays team.
The below itinerary is flexible should you require additional fishing days or additional free days to explore; we can tailor this itinerary to suit you personally. Feel free to talk to our travel consultants who can explain all options available.
Depart Any international Airport (See Details)
Arrive Dubai
Depart Dubai, Arrive Cape Town
Once you have collected your luggage and cleared customs, make your way outside the terminal building where there will be a representative from CapTuna fishing holding up a board with your name on it. They will then transfer you in a private vehicle on the short drive to your hotel. (Approx 30mins) When you arrive at your hotel and check-in, you are then free to relax and explore the stunning Hout Bay.
Overnight accommodation: Chapmans Peak Beach Hotel (Twin room) B/B
This day is free for you to relax and explore the surrounding area. We can help you organise sightseeing tours or you can simply laze around the beach and soak up some sun before your days fishing. If you speak to the hotel reception they can help organise some tours to see some of the local tourist attractions
Overnight accommodation: Chapmans Peak Beach Hotel (Twin room) B/B
Over the next 4 days fishing at a pre-agreed time, our skipper will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you the very short drive to the marina where our boat is moored. After a short briefing with your skipper, you will depart the marina around 7 am for your full days fishing targeting the fish you want to target. Each day you can choose to fish different styles, simply make it clear to our skipper and he will take you to the best areas for your chosen style of fishing. At around 17:00 you will arrive back at the marina and be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight accommodation: Chapmans Peak Beach Hotel (Twin room) B/B
At a pre-arranged time and once you have checked out of your hotel our representative will transfer you back to Cape Town International airport for your return flight.
Depart Cape Town
Arrive Dubai Depart Dubai
Arrive Home
The season runs from All Year.
Season: All Year
Peak: September to June
Weight: 50lb to 220lb
Average Weight: 120lb
Season: All Year
Peak: October to May
Weight: 30lb to 80lb
Average Weight: 40lb
Season: All Year
Peak: October to July
Weight: 60lb to 250lb
Average Weight: 150lb
If you would like to upgrade to one of our other boats please contact a member of the Sportquest team who will be more than happy to help.
If your group size is smaller or larger than the standard two people travelling then please contact a member of the Sportquest Holidays team who will give you a more up to date price.
Remember that Sportquest Holidays' services are completely FREE! When you book a trip with Sportquest Holidays, you never pay more than when you book directly with the lodge and flights independently.
| From | To | Duration | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15/03/2025 | 31/03/2025 | 9 | £4,508 | Enquire Now |
| 01/04/2025 | 30/04/2025 | 9 | £4,508 | Enquire Now |
| 18/04/2025 | 31/05/2025 | 9 | £4,508 | Enquire Now |
| 05/05/2025 | 30/06/2025 | 9 | £4,508 | Enquire Now |
Prices are based on two adults sharing transfers, fishing and accommodation (unless otherwise stated) and are correct at the time of going to press. Subject to time of year or date and currency fluctuations, these prices may fluctuate slightly due to flight price increases or fuel surcharge.
This is the ultimate deepwater trip.
Nothing pulls pound for pound like Yellowfin!
We had several triple hook - ups and all landed fish up to 190 lbs.
Hotel is great, 5 mins from boat, huge rooms + great food (cheap). Best boat + skipper you'll ever get.
Thought Guatemala was unbeatable, I was wrong!
Hi Alan, sounds like you guys had a great trip and they looked after you guys very well. Love the pictures
Where next for you guys?
Looking forward to have a catch up
All the best
Paul
The whole holiday / fishing experience was excellent!
The boat skipper (James) and his crew were great. Caught several big Yellowfins (95 kg, 91 kg, 90 kg + 88 kg)
Waterproof bib and brace and boots with a good tread would combat the water.
Hi Michael, thank you so much for the great feedback, I will pass it on to the guys in South Africa.
I have now added the bib and brace with a good pair of boats in to the pre trip information and thanks for speaking with me on your return
All the best
Paul
Thank you, James and Guy, for a good day of fishing. You are really professional in your work of xtreme fishing. Skilled to find where the fish are and flexible to change way of fishing method when new opportunities shows up.
Hi Dean, the guys over there will be really pleased with your feedback. They work so hard to put people on the fish and its comments like this that make them the best team out there. Thank you
All the best Paul
Very good set up, boats, staff. Main problem is wind, you would easily get there and find it unfishable.
Hi John, thank you for your feedback form and looks like you managed to catch a few good Yellowfin. Yes this part of the world does suffer from winds throughout the year. Hopefully you and Selina enjoyed the hotel
All the best
Paul
Going tuna fishing with Xtreme charters was a total blast. We went out on Osprey with Mike and having Bosman and Joe on the boat as well was great fun.
Hello Glenn, thanks for your feedback I will pass it on to the skippers. Please remember to send me the pictures when you get time
All the best Paul
Good Yellowfin and Mako, great boats and staff
Hi Karl, glad to hear you liked the place. I will try and catch up with you in the next couple of weeks. All the best Paul
Great Experience! Money well spent! Very professional and skilled! Guy was an excellent skipper and made sure we got the best out of our day. Will defenitely be seeing you soon for another fishing adventure!
Hello Andre, thank you for taking the time to email us your feedback. I will pass on your kind comments
All the best Paul
Very professional and organised skipper. No doubt an unforgettable fishing experience.
Hi Lee, great to hear you loved it. Would love to see some pictures when you have some spare time. What did you think about the hotel, was it worth having the seaview room?
All the best Paul
Indeed an Xtreme experience! Had a blast in the deep blue! Will definitely be seeing you soon for another fishing adventure! Thanks for all your help
Hello Henry, I told you the guys knew what they were doing..... They are some of the best skippers around and certainly, know how to put you on fish. I will pass on your comments as I think they will be pleased.
All the best Paul
Hotel was fantastic and great food. Well done for advising us to eat some of the seafood. The trip was excellent, the fishing was very good and we all managed to get our Tuna and you were right they pull really hard. Thanks Paul
Hello Michael I did warn you how hard they fight. Hopefully no one was injured during battle!!! So glad you liked the hotel, we get some pretty good feedback on this hotel. It has awesome views
All the best Paul
Hi Paul thank you for helping me organise this my husband was very pleased with the fishing. I spent most of my days down by the beach painting an also the hotel organised some days out for me which went very well.
Thanks will be in touch soon
Hi Stacey, I am so pleased he liked it and that he didn't find out. If you ever need us to organise something like this again just give me a shout. Would love to see some of your paintings I bet there were some lovely things to draw. What days out did you do?
All the best Paul
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