Atlantic Giants: Deep‑Sea Battles off La Gomera
An eight-hour chase for tuna and marlin in the nutrient-rich Atlantic off La Gomera
First light on the Atlantic is a hard, clean thing: a silver strip along the horizon, the boat rocking in a slow, patient rhythm, and the smell of salt and diesel that will be with you for the rest of the day. You push off from San Sebastián de La Gomera and the island—ancient basalt cliffs, laurel forest ridgelines and the compact white town—recedes into a backdrop. The day ahead is pure encounter: long-distance battles with tuna and marlin, the kind of concentrated adrenaline that rewires your idea of what a single morning can demand.
Trail Wisdom
Pack for sun and spray
Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses; reflected sunlight and spray intensify exposure on open water.
Choose non‑slip deck shoes
Decks get wet and baits slippery—rubber-soled shoes improve footing and reduce the chance of falls during a fight.
Bring motion‑sickness remedies
Even experienced sailors can feel queasy offshore—take preventive medication or use acupressure bands before departure.
Communicate targets with the captain
Tell the crew your experience and species goals so they can set tackle appropriately and maximize your time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Valle Gran Rey beach coves for a quiet post‑trip swim
- •Hermigua’s banana terraces and waterfall trails for a land-side detour
Wildlife
Atlantic spotted dolphins, Pilot whales and occasional sperm whales
Conservation Note
Many local crews practice tag-and-release for marlin and follow Spanish and EU catch limits for tuna; support operators who handle large fish properly and minimize bycatch.
La Gomera’s Silbo Gomero whistled language is an island legacy recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Bluefin tuna runs, Blue marlin season, Calmer seas in late spring
Challenges: Rapid changes in water temperature, High demand for charters
Late spring is prime: April through July sees the biggest tuna and marlin migrations; book early as slots fill fast.
summer
Best for: Blue and white marlin in some areas, Stable weather windows, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Peak season crowds near hot spots, Stronger sun exposure
Summer extends the marlin window around some islands but demands sun protection and cooler scheduling early or late in the day.
fall
Best for: Transition fishing for mixed species, Lower charter rates, Species variety including tunas
Challenges: Less predictable migrations, Occasional autumn storms
Fall can be productive but less predictable—good for anglers who want variety and are flexible about targets.
winter
Best for: Bottom fishing and reef species, Smaller tuna like yellowfin and bonito
Challenges: Rougher seas on some days, Shorter daylight hours
Winter moves the focus toward bottom fish and nearshore species; expect cooler conditions and variable sea states.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare and helps spot surface activity and splashing fish.
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Protects footing on wet, bait-slick decks during fights and maneuvers.
Motion‑sickness medication or wristbandsEssential
Prevents nausea during offshore swell, improving stamina and focus.
Light waterproof jacket
Blocks spray and wind during early mornings or choppy returns.
Common Questions
Do I need prior fishing experience to join?
No—most charters welcome beginners and provide rods, bait and crew coaching; tell the captain your experience so they can match you with appropriate tackle.
What species can we expect to catch?
Season-dependent: bluefin and yellowfin tuna in spring, blue marlin in late spring and early summer, plus various bottom fish in winter; check the season calendar with your operator.
Are big fish released or kept?
Practices vary—many crews offer tag-and-release for marlin and will follow local regulations for tuna sizes; discuss landing, weighing and storage before you go.
Is seasickness common and how can I prevent it?
Seasickness can occur offshore; take preventive medication, eat lightly, stay hydrated and focus on the horizon to reduce symptoms.
How many people are on a typical charter?
Groups vary but private charters often take small groups to ensure space and tackle; confirm capacity and crew ratio when booking.
What’s the cancellation policy for bad weather?
Policies depend on the operator; most charters will reschedule or refund if conditions make fishing unsafe—confirm terms when you book.
What to Pack
Sunglasses (polarized) for glare reduction, non-slip deck shoes for safety, motion-sickness meds for comfort, high-SPF sunscreen to prevent burns
Did You Know
La Gomera is home to the traditional whistled language Silbo Gomero, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early in spring for marlin/tuna windows; confirm pickup at San Sebastián port; bring cash for small onshore purchases; expect limited cell service offshore
Local Flavor
After a day at sea, head to San Sebastián de La Gomera for fresh‑caught tuna at a waterfront restaurant, sample papas arrugadas with mojo, and sip local wines or a cold Canarian beer while watching the sunset over the harbor.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: La Gomera Airport (GMZ) via Tenerife; major hubs: Tenerife South (TFS). Nearest town: San Sebastián de La Gomera harbor (walkable to charters). Driving: short transfers from town to marina. Cell service: patchy offshore. Permits: charter handles fishing licenses and catch paperwork—confirm details when booking.
Sustainability Note
Charters often follow tag-and-release for marlin and comply with Spanish/EU tuna quota rules—support operators who use circle hooks, minimize bycatch and properly handle large fish to reduce post-release mortality.
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