Deep‑sea/big‑game fishing charter
Experience world-class big-game and deep-sea fishing in the clear tropical waters around Mahé and Praslin. These charters target trophy species — blue and black marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, dorado (mahi-mahi) and more — using professional tournament-style rigs, live or dead bait, and experienced crews who know the best grounds, currents and seasonal patterns. Charters cater to anglers of all levels from first-timers to serious tournament fishermen, and are offered as half-day, full-day or overnight trips.
Location
Offshore waters surrounding Mahé and Praslin (inner Seychelles plateau to deeper drop-offs and seamounts), Mahé / Praslin, Seychelles
Duration
Options: half-day (4–5 hrs), full-day (8–10 hrs), overnight/extended (12–24+ hrs)
Best Time to Visit
Peak big-game season generally runs October–May (warmer currents and migratory billfish), though quality fishing is possible year-round with seasonal shifts in target species.
Pricing
Typical private charter pricing (approximate and subject to season/boat type):
- Half-day (4–5 hours): USD 350–700 for up to 4 people
- Full-day (8–10 hours): USD 700–1,500 for up to 6 people
- Overnight / 12–24 hour excursion: USD 1,500–3,500+ (larger boats or trophy hunts)
- Shared/seat-based options (when available): USD 120–250 per person Inclusions commonly: professional skipper and crew, tackle and basic terminal tackle, bait, fuel, bottled water and light snacks, fishing license (if required). Not included: gratuities, meals (unless specified), scuba/diving, hotel transfers (some operators include pickups). Advanced-booking discounts and multi-day rates may apply.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Target species: blue marlin, black marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi), wahoo, giant trevally, various sharks
Experienced, tournament-style crews and gear
Trolling, live-baiting and deep-drop options depending on target
Scenic ocean vistas, coral atolls and opportunities for snorkeling between drifts
Private charters tailored to family trips, angler-only outings or trophy hunts
Itinerary
Meet at the marina (Mahé: Victoria or nearby; Praslin: Baie Ste Anne or local jetty). Crew briefing covers safety, target species, gear setup and approximate route.
Operators often provide hotel pick-up; arrive 15 minutes early. Morning departures maximize bite windows.
Transit to fishing grounds; set up trolling and live-bait stations; work productive lines/drifts for billfish and tuna.
Expect windows of intense activity; crew will rotate anglers and coach fighting technique.
Return to port for shorter trips or continue deeper/wider search for a full-day charter. Light snacks and water served on board.
Full-day trips will move to different grounds (seamounts, drop-offs) and change tactics as needed.
Deep trolling, live-baiting or deep-drop for larger pelagics; opportunity to switch techniques if conditions change.
Full-day increases chances for trophy hookups; crew may offer fish-cleaning and storage for transport.
Extended overnight runs to distant productive grounds; night-baiting or live-bait strategies; onboard rest in larger vessels.
Overnight trips are for serious anglers targeting marlin or long-range productive grounds; bring marine-friendly sleeping gear if staying onboard.
Safety Requirements
Wear a life jacket when on deck — operator provides approved PFDs
Bring or take anti-nausea medication if prone to sea sickness; trips go to open ocean with swell
Listen to crew safety briefing and follow skipper instructions at all times
Fishing line and terminal tackle are hazardous — keep clear of running lines and gaffs
Weather-dependent: charters may be rescheduled or canceled for safety
Children should be supervised and meet operator age/weight restrictions
Tips
Book in advance for peak season (Oct–May) and for weekends — private boats are limited
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses and non-slip deck shoes
Carry motion-sickness medication (ginger, patches, oral meds) and any personal prescriptions
Pack a waterproof camera/phone and a dry bag for valuables
Confirm what is included (tackle, bait, fishing license, transfers) and the maximum passenger count
Tip your crew (common 10–20% of charter price for excellent service)
If you plan to keep fish, confirm local size/possession regulations and whether the operator will handle cleaning and packaging for travel
