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Beginner’s Guide to Big Game Fishing in Lanzarote

By Jez | Published 02/10/2025 | Bluewater Breaks Lanzarote

Thinking About Trying Big Game Fishing?

There’s something undeniably exciting about the idea of big game fishing. Maybe you’ve seen those photos of people holding bright golden dorado or long, silver tuna, or perhaps you’ve watched a video where the reel starts screaming and suddenly the calm sea turns into a burst of adrenaline. And there’s a moment where you think, “I’d like to try that.”

Then the doubts arrive.
Do I need experience? What if I’m not strong enough? Will everyone else know what they’re doing except me?

Here’s the reassuring truth: big game fishing in Lanzarote is genuinely beginner-friendly. When you’re with the right crew and on the right boat, it’s not intimidating at all. It’s exciting, guided, supported, and honestly, more fun than most people expect. With Bluewater Breaks and The Escualo, first-timers are welcomed, encouraged, and taught step by step, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without feeling out of your depth.

What Big Game Fishing Really Means

Big game fishing simply refers to heading into deeper waters where larger species live and hunt. Lanzarote is uniquely positioned for this because the seabed drops off very quickly, meaning you don’t spend hours travelling to reach the right spots. In practical terms, you’re fishing rather than just cruising.

These waters are home to some incredible fish. There’s the blue marlin — the impressive one that anglers talk about for years after catching. There are several types of tuna, including bluefin, yellowfin, and albacore, known for fast runs and powerful fights. Dorado (also called mahi-mahi) flash bright greens and golds when they hit the line and leap across the surface. Wahoo move quick and sharp, and amberjack wait deeper near reefs and wrecks, ready to test strength and patience.

If that sounds dramatic — it is, but in the best way. When a big fish takes, there’s movement and energy on board that sweeps you into the moment. Even watching someone else bring in a fish is exciting, but when it’s you in the chair, the feeling is different. It’s focused, physical, and deeply memorable.

The Boat Helping You Do It: The Escualo

The boat makes a difference, and The Escualo is built for comfort, stability, and fishing power. She’s a 12-meter Dutch-built Striker with a wide beam and aluminium construction, giving her a steady feel on the water. Two Nanni diesel engines with 320 PS each provide reliable speed, so you reach the fishing grounds without delay. There’s space for up to twelve guests, meaning plenty of room to move around without feeling crowded.

She has been renovated to create a clean, relaxed atmosphere on board. There’s a small galley for refreshments, a proper bathroom, a living and dining area for resting between runs, and a high command post that offers wide views — excellent for spotting dolphins, birds, flying fish, and the coastline stretching behind you.

This isn’t a stripped-down fishing workboat. It’s comfortable and welcoming. You’ll want to spend the day out there.

The Gear Comes Ready for You

Beginners don’t need to bring any equipment. Everything is already prepared on board, and it’s good quality gear that professionals respect. The Escualo carries Shimano and Penn reels across different strengths, along with well-balanced Tiagra rods. There’s a sturdy fighting chair for handling big fish, outriggers for trolling cleanly, and different rods set up for bottom fishing, spinning, jigging, live baiting, and even night fishing. Whether you’ve never touched a fishing rod before or you’ve fished all your life, the equipment is ready for you to use comfortably and safely.

What Your Day on The Escualo Will Feel Like

Picture the morning. The marina is calm, the light is soft, and you step aboard with a mix of excitement and curiosity. The engines hum as you head out, and the coastline begins to shrink behind you. The sea air wakes you up better than any coffee could.

When the lines go out, there’s anticipation, but it’s a relaxed kind. You can chat, watch, take photos, ask questions, or simply enjoy the motion of the sea. Then the moment comes — a reel suddenly bursts into life. The energy shifts instantly. Someone sits in the fighting chair (maybe you), and the crew guide every movement. Your heart might race, your arms may feel the effort, but you’re supported the entire time. There’s a rhythm to the fight — gentle, strong, steady. Eventually, the fish rises — brilliant and alive. Whether it’s released or brought aboard, the memory settles in right then.

It’s not something you forget.

Feeling Nervous? That’s Normal

Trying anything new creates nerves. They fade quickly once you’re on the water. The experience is peaceful, friendly, and fun. There is no pressure to be skilled or strong. Just being present is enough. You don’t have to be a stereotypical "fisher" to love this. Curiosity alone is more than enough.

Why Lanzarote Is the Perfect Place to Start

Some fishing destinations require hours of travel to deep water, leaving you tired before you even begin. Lanzarote’s volcanic shape means deep water arrives fast. Less travel means more fishing and more comfort. The weather stays mild and pleasant most of the year, and the sea here supports a healthy, thriving ecosystem. It’s a place that invites beginners to feel confident quickly.

So Should You Try It?

If your curiosity is already here, the answer is probably yes. Big game fishing is memorable not because it’s extreme, but because it’s real. It pulls you into the moment. It gives you a feeling of being connected — to the sea, to yourself, to something bigger than everyday life. You don’t need experience. You just need to step aboard.

Your first big game story is waiting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions Answered

What’s Included In A Bluewater Breaks Holiday?

Every Bluewater Breaks holiday includes return flights from the UK, airport transfers in Lanzarote, quality accommodation (from villas to luxury hotels), and a set amount of private big game fishing hours with professional crews. You also get access to island activities for non-fishing guests, with concierge-style support throughout your trip.

Do You Cater For Non-Fishing Family Members?

Yes — absolutely. While the anglers head out to sea, we organise activities and excursions for non-fishing family members or friends. Whether it’s a spa day, sightseeing tour, beach trip, or water sports, we make sure everyone has a memorable experience. We also offer free island transfers to help them explore.

What Kind Of Fish Can I Expect To Catch?

Depending on the season, you can target blue marlin, white marlin, bigeye tuna, yellowfin tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi), wahoo, and more. The Atlantic waters off Lanzarote are known for their rich variety of big game fish — with expert local crews giving you the best chance of a great catch.

How Experienced Do I Need To Be To Join A Fishing Trip?

No experience is necessary. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned angler, our professional skippers and crews tailor each trip to your skill level. They’ll provide all the guidance, equipment, and support you need to enjoy a fantastic day on the water.

Can I Customise My Holiday Package?

Yes — you can. While we offer pre-planned packages with set dates and fishing hours, we also offer fully customised holidays. You can choose your dates, accommodation type, fishing hours, and any additional activities or experiences you want us to arrange.

Where Do The Flights Depart From?

Most of our packages currently depart from Bristol, but we can offer options from other UK airports depending on your location and available flights. Let us know your preferred departure region when you enquire, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

What Happens If The Weather Stops Us From Fishing?

Your safety always comes first. If severe weather prevents fishing on a planned day, we’ll do everything possible to reschedule during your stay. If that’s not possible, we offer a refund of up to £1,000 — giving you peace of mind when booking your trip