Pêche aux Açores

Located about 1,500 km west of the Portuguese main land, the Archipelago of the Azores is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean. The nine volcanic islands of this archipelago stretch out over more than 600km. From west to east these islands are Flores, Corvo, Graciosa, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, São Miguel, Santa Maria, and the Formigas Reef.

The volcanic origin explains the irregular sea floor with impressive cliffs, barriers, drop-offs and plateaus. They are a perfect habitat for local fish like grouper, amberjack, bluefish, barracuda, horse mackerel, jack, bonito, wahoo, snapper and other smaller fish. The most popular fishing techniques to catch these locals is jigging and bottom fishing.

The migrators also feel perfectly at home. During summer, billfish and several tuna species inhabit these waters to chase the abundant shoals of sardines, anchovies and mackerel. The Azores have become very famous for it's enormous Blue Marlin - the biggest every caught weighed 1307lb! The drop-offs can be reached within about 15 minutes from the Islands, although many skippers prefer sailing to their favorite spots (Condor Bank, the Azores Bank, etc), which are further away from the coast (1h apron).

The best time for fishing in the Azores is during summer, when the Azores High pressure system becomes stationary over the Islands. This is when you have flat calm seas and clear skies. However, keep in mind that low pressure systems do affect the Azores bringing changeable weather every now and then.

Açores, Atlantique Nord