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 Because of its exceptionally large Exclusive Economic Zone, Seychelles is a world leader in transshipment of tuna fish and products. Considerable income is produced by the foreign fishing vessel licensing and by supplies and services for those ships. Indian Ocean Tuna (a majority of which is owned by Heinz International) processes over 110 tons each day resulting in over $20 million, the largest single export. Almost all-commercial fishing activity goes through Victoria harbor.
Fishing Games
Seychelles waters are a paradise for game fishing although it's a relatively new sport in the islands. The flats near St. Francoise and Alphonse have recently been recognized as probably the best saltwater fly-fishing area in the world.
Many live aboard boats are equipped for the sport or a purpose-built vessel from Marine Charter in Victoria can be hired to sample the abundant banks around Mahe, Fregate, Bird and Denis (Denis has the distinction of providing record fighting catches like sailfish or blue marlin). It is recommended that you pre-book your fishing because its popularity often leads to disappointment if you don't.
Deep Sea Fishing
Trolling brings in red meat fish (tuna, jackfish and dorado); bottom fishing can get giant red snapper and grouper. Note that spear fishing is prohibited in the Seychelles. Boats are available for charter in Mahe and Praslin primarily, with a few also stationed on Desroches and Denis islands. In the Inner Islands Water World has a selection of boats for day trips and longer.
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing on the flats is exhilarating, especially with a guide who know the local waters inside and out: so much so that one would think he knew each individual fish by name. Tarpon cannot be taken in Seychelles. Guides in Seychelles are expert and inexpensive. Fishing is either by wading or by small skiff. As an example, a full day of guide services will cost only about $200 (plus any expenses). Five day and more fly-fishing expeditions to Alphonse are extremely popular as are the yearly trips on the Indian Ocean Explorer operated by The Urban Angler.
Seasons are governed by trade winds: from May to September they blow from the southeast (better for Big Game) and the seas can sometimes be rough; from November to February from the northwest (calmer seas for bottom fishing). October and April are perhaps the most enjoyable with calm seas.
Competitions are scheduled under the representative of the International Game Fishing Association (IGFA). Big Game Fishing tempts serious line class fishermen. Dogtooth tuna has set world records, including the all tackle record. Traditionally, strip bait is used but live bait is available. Tag and Release is encouraged. Bottom Fishing is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike off the numerous banks and submerged granite reefs. Night fishing for barracuda is a special adventure. Bone Fishing is the latest sport with catches plentiful off Alphonse, St. Francoise, Desroches, D'Arros, St. Joseph, Denis, Bird and North Island.
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