Fishing Adventures in Seychelles: From Shore to Deep Sea
An island nation where fishing is a culture
The Republic of Seychelles stretches across 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. Its granite islands rise steeply from the sea while outer coral atolls are low‑lying, creating diverse habitats for both land and marine life. Fishing is not just a pastime here – it is woven into Creole culture.
Seychellois traditions blend African, French and British influences, and daily life revolves around the catch of the day, whether enjoyed at a beachside barbecue or sold at a market in Victoria. On small private islands such as Cousine, fishing experiences are crafted for both adventure seekers and epicureans.
Fishing is a way of life in the Seychelles
Shoreline fishing on Cousine’s beaches
Shoreline fishing, sometimes called surf fishing is a simple yet deeply satisfying way to connect with the sea. At dawn or dusk, guests stand barefoot on Cousine Island’s powder‑soft sand, casting light tackle into the turquoise shallows. The inner granitic islands support abundant reef life: species such as bonefish, trevally and snapper patrol the surf zones and can be targeted with lures or bait. Local guides teach traditional hand‑line techniques and help novices read the tides.
When a fish is landed, it becomes part of the island’s catch‑to‑table ethos – grilled with local spices, simmered into a coconut curry, or served sashimi‑style to showcase the freshness of the catch. Sharing these meals gives insight into Seychellois Creole food, whose flavours blend spices, tropical fruits and seafood.
Enjoy shoreline fishing from Cousine Island’s beach or on an island excursion
Deep‑sea charters: chasing tuna, wahoo and dorado
For anglers craving bigger game, Cousine Island arranges deep‑sea charters that venture beyond the reef. Offshore waters teem with pelagic species, and a charter often yields yellowfin tuna, dorado (mahi‑mahi), wahoo, marlin and sailfish. The Sailoe travel company notes that fishing in the Seychelles is possible all year, but seasons matter: tuna are more abundant during the rainy season (November–March), while marlin prefer the dry season (April–October).
Captains supply heavy rods and sturdy reels; anglers troll skirted lures or cast poppers, feeling the powerful runs of these fast fish. Conservation rules emphasise catch limits and respect for endangered species, so many charters practice catch‑and‑release for billfish while keeping one or two fish for the boat’s crew and guests.
Cousine Island connects guests who love fishing with premier deep sea charters
Catch‑to‑table: connecting ocean to plate
Back on Cousine, the day’s catch becomes part of a culinary journey. Chefs fillet tuna into steaks for the grill, marinate dorado in lime and chilli for ceviche, or smoke wahoo over coconut husks. These dishes highlight Seychellois Creole cuisine, where spices such as chilli, turmeric and cinnamon pair with tropical staples like breadfruit and plantain. Eating fish that you have personally caught deepens appreciation for the marine ecosystem and the cultural importance of fishing. It also reduces food miles and supports sustainable island living.
Ocean-to-table is at the heart of Cousine Island’s menu
Seasonality, sustainability and the eco‑calendar
Although fishing is possible year‑round, weather patterns influence the experience. The north‑west trade winds (October–April) bring calmer seas; this is the prime season for both deep‑sea and shoreline fishing. The south‑east trade winds (May–September) can make offshore conditions rougher, favouring reef and surf fishing instead.
On Cousine Island, activities follow an eco‑calendar that respects nesting seasons of seabirds and turtles and aligns fishing with periods of abundance. Guides encourage ethical practices such as using circle hooks to reduce by-catch, avoiding sensitive spawning grounds, and releasing undersized fish.
Conservation laws require anglers to respect catch limits and protected species, ensuring that the archipelago’s rich marine life remains healthy for future generations.
Experience the thrill of seasonal game fish in the Seychelles from Cousine Island
Why fishing on Cousine Island is unique
The Seychelles is a world-famous playground for anglers: granite peaks shelter reef fish near shore, while deep channels harbour tuna, wahoo and marlin. Fishing connects guests to both the environment and the Creole way of life, especially when the catch goes straight to the table. Seasonality shapes the best times to fish, but respect for conservation rules and local traditions ensures that these waters remain abundant.
Unlike crowded charter hubs, Cousine Island hosts only a handful of guests at a time, preserving a sense of wilderness and exclusivity. From shoreline lessons to offshore pursuits, the island offers personalised experiences that blend tradition, adventure and cuisine.
You can spend the morning wading in clear shallows with a hand‑line, the afternoon chasing tuna beyond the drop‑off, and the evening enjoying your own catch at a Creole‑inspired dinner. Combined with the island’s commitment to conservation, these fishing adventures create a deeper connection to the ocean and to Seychellois culture.
On Cousine Island, fishing is more than sport, it is an intimate, sustainable experience that ties together exploration, heritage and exquisite flavours.
Incorporate shoreline and game fishing adventures into your extended stay when booking one of our exclusive packages for an unforgettable island breakaway.
