Mauritius has long been a dream destination for vacationers, honeymooners, and nature lovers. With dense rainforests, protected lagoons, and miles of sparkling beaches, the island features landscapes that only bring one word to mind – paradise. But for those of you looking to do some angling in these pristine waters, you’re in luck, because fishing in Mauritius is par excellence.

The island of Mauritius is almost entirely surrounded by reefs. These provide a habitat for an incredible variety of marine life. Just beyond the reefs, the waters get significantly deeper, turning into a playground for trophy fish.
In this blog, we’ll cover the world-class fishing this corner of the world offers. You’ll be able to read about some of the top catches in Mauritius and ways to fish. We’ll also provide a list of a few fishing spots you can use as starting points on your angling journey. So if you’re planning that dream fishing vacation, read on, and let’s dive into it together.
Best Fish to Catch in Mauritius
This part of the Indian Ocean is a year-round home to some of the hottest big game fishing on the planet. With various pelagics living in waters just minutes from shore, it’s the kind of fishery that exceeds even the wildest angling expectations. Here are just some of the most popular fish to catch in Mauritius.
Marlin
If there’s one fish most anglers dream of facing at least once in their lifetime, it’s probably Marlin. They’re one of the fastest, most acrobatic species out there, capable of growing to sizes of over 1,000 pounds. For anglers fortunate enough to hook into one of these “Granders,” be prepared for a battle. Blue, Striped, and Black Marlin will leap, fight, and try their utmost hardest to cut you off.
In Mauritius, Marlin are caught year-round. However, considering how elusive these fish are, it’s best to fish for them during the high season, between November and March. Also, don’t be surprised if you run into a big one, as the largest Blue Marlin caught in Mauritius was measured at 1,355 pounds. That’s just a bit short of the IGFA world record standing at 1,376 pounds!
Top Black Marlin Fishing Charters in Mauritius
Mahi Mahi

Fun, photogenic, and thoroughly delicious, Mahi Mahi are a great fish to target, no matter your skill level. Once you get them to bite the end of your line, they’ll often surprise you with their speed and strength. Fortunately, if you find them in the middle of a feeding frenzy, they’re fairly easy to hook, making them a fantastic fish to practice your skills on.
With deep waters very close to Mauritian shores, Mahi Mahi can sometimes be caught just outside the reef edge that encircles the island. This means that you can target them even on shorter outings, given that the season and the sea conditions align. Otherwise, you can try fishing for Mahi Mahi in the 10–15 mile range or beyond, at the offshore banks.
Tuna

You know that feeling when you hit the gym for the first time in a while and you just feel wiped out the next day? That’s sort of what you can expect after fighting a Tuna. Tough, durable, and not for the faint of heart, these fish will give you a battle to remember. Luckily, Mauritius is home to a few different kinds of Tuna, big and small, to suit everyone’s skill levels.
Yellowfin Tuna, Dogtooth Tuna, and Skipjack Tuna are all among the species you can target in Mauritius. The first two can reach sizes of around 200 pounds, making them a formidable challenge for any angler. Skipjack Tuna are smaller in comparison and more suitable for beginners.
Most of the time, you’ll be trolling offshore in hopes of enticing the Tuna bite. At times, you could also be jigging over reefs, banks, and dropoffs. Whatever the technique your captain recommends, get ready for a fight. Depending on its size, it can take a few minutes or a few hours to reel in a Tuna.
Giant Trevally

Highly prized in the Indo-Pacific region, Giant Trevally are a popular game fish for a good reason. They’re tenacious fighters, blessed with speed, outstanding strength, as well as stamina. Known among anglers as “GTs,” they’re a local favorite and a fish you definitely want to tick off your bucket list if you’re fishing in Mauritius.
Around these parts, Giant Trevally can be found pretty much anywhere. Even if you decide to just cast from shore, you’ll be able to hook into some smaller specimens. Close to shore, you’ll also be able to target its cousin, Bluefin Trevally. GTs can get pretty big though, often exceeding 100 pounds. To have a shot at a monster GT, you’ll have to jump on a boat and ride offshore.
And More!

The species we mentioned so far are just some of the many exciting fish that call the Mauritian waters their home. Big Sailfish, Spearfish, and even the occasional Striped Marlin are all Billfish you can add to the list.
Other popular targets include Wahoo and Barracuda, as well as an assortment of tropical reef fish. Finally, there’s always the option of getting into a tussle with a Shark, including the highly aggressive Mako. With such a diverse fishery, all you really need to do is pick your target and how you want to fish.
What anglers said about fishing in Mauritius
How to Go Fishing in Mauritius
Charter Fishing

Fishing plays an important role in the economy of Mauritius. With this in mind, it’s no wonder there’s no shortage of experienced charter captains. So for anyone eager to do some big game fishing in Mauritius, pairing up with a local captain and using their knowledge of the area is the best way to go about catching a trophy.
Hopping aboard a charter boat will also provide you with the most flexibility. You’ll be able to switch between spots and chase a greater variety of fish. Based on the kind of boat you charter, you may even be able to hit the distant offshore banks. Located around 100 miles offshore, these are lauded as the most prolific fishing grounds in Mauritius.
Another bonus is the fact that most charter captains will provide you with the equipment you need. This way, you’ll save the effort of renting or traveling with your gear. They’ll also be able to advise you on what’s biting at the time of your trip, as well as which techniques work best.
Top Fishing Charters in Mauritius
Shore Fishing

There are more ways to come face-to-gills with some fish than to charter a boat. Mingling with the locals and casting from shore can be a fantastic way to catch Trevally or other smaller fish. Not only that, but you’ll be doing it from some of the most breathtaking beaches and lagoons in the world.
If you’re keen on doing some shore fishing, going out at a low tide is an experience you don’t want to miss. Let the slow waves roll over your feet, cast your line, and see what bites. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to find a rod rental place or bring along your equipment.
Mauritius Fishing Spots
Blessed with reefs, banks, and underwater shelves, it’s no wonder this stretch of the Indian Ocean is teeming with fish. However, depending on which part of the island you decide to depart from, the fishing conditions vary. Have a look at our list of some of the best starting points and fishing spots in Mauritius.

- Le Morne Brabant: Located on the southwestern tip of the island, Le Morne is where fishing legends are made. Just off the coast, the waters become deep in a spectacular manner – with a stunning underwater waterfall that’ll leave you breathless. Hit the deep waters for a chance to catch Grander Marlin. Or stay on the shore and cast for some Trevally.
- Black River: Equally popular among anglers as Le Morne, Black River is another starting point that offers world-class fishing. Similar to the rest of the western coast, it’ll give you easy access to deep sea fishing grounds. There, you’ll face off against Yellowfin Tuna, GTs, Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and more.
- Soudan Banks: For the biggest thrill-seekers out there, riding out to the Soudan Banks is a trip worth making. Situated around 100 miles from Mauritius, these remote reefs are abundant with game fish. Big Giant Trevally, Marlin, and Sailfish, and Tuna are just some of the species you could come across.
- Poste Lafayette: If you’d like to stick to shore fishing, Poste Lafayette is a fantastic option. In fact, it’s a great spot for anglers looking to cast for some inshore Trevally. Once you’re there, you can try fishing just off the public beach.
- Grand Baie: Starting your trip from the northern point of Mauritius is a great option if you want to visit some of the local islets, such as Gabriel, Flat, or Coin de Mire. Of course, you’ll also get to do some big game fishing along the way. Marlin, Mahi Mahi, and Tuna are all swimming through these waters.
When to Go Fishing in Mauritius
This tropical paradise will welcome you with open arms whenever you decide to visit it. The same goes for angling. There’s no off-season in Mauritius and you can fish here year-round.
These waters are brimming with big game fish such as Mahi Mahi and Tuna, but Billfish are all the rage here. So, if you are among the anglers who flock to Mauritius to clash with these titans, we recommend going to Mauritius between November and March. Winter months will reward you with better angling conditions and record-breaking specimens. Also, the Billfish tournament being held during this time frame speaks volumes about how good fishing is then.
Mauritius Fishing Tournaments
For anglers looking to take part in a tournament, the South Indian Ocean Billfish Competition takes place in late January every year, during the Marlin high season. The competition kicks off in Black River, giving you the best shot at catching monster Billfish.
Mauritius Fishing Regulations

In Mauritius, the fish you catch on your charter typically belong to the boat. This being said, you’re always welcome to talk to the captain about keeping a fish or two for dinner. As far as fishing permits are concerned, the good news is that you’re not required to have a license on charters or when shore fishing. However, keep in mind that spearfishing is illegal in Mauritius.
Mauritius: A Big Game Fishing Heaven

Exploring the lush Mauritian forests, coves, and shorelines, with their fascinating endemic wildlife, is an adventure on its own. Pair that with an almost unbeatable fishery, and it becomes easy to see why the island is such an amazing place to visit. If you’re an angler looking to catch some of the most prestigious fish on the planet, Mauritius is a destination that’s sure to live up to your dreams.
Are you planning on going fishing in Mauritius? Have you maybe been there before? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below!