Fishing in Mallorca

Turquoise water surrounds the largest Balearic Island just off the coast of Spain. A popular scene for travelers, locals, and perma-vacationers, Mallorca is enriched with fascinating culture, magnificent mountains, charming coves, alluring vineyards, and rocky beaches. The beautiful beaches extend for miles until the pearl-white sand unites with the breath-taking Balearic Sea. The deep waters of the Mediterranean are known as remarkable fishing destinations. An angler’s dream, fishing in Mallorca is simply incredible.

What fish can you catch in Mallorca

Mallorca is a great place to fish; and depending on the fishing techniques and the fishing area you'll be able to catch a whole range of different species. Offshore there are amazing pelagic species, while inshore you can target some ferocious bottom dwellers. These are the top fish species of Mallorca.

Caproig (scorpionfish)

Red scorpion fish fead on small fish and crustaceans. This stunning Mallorca fish species sheds his skin every two weeks. It's a beautiful fish, very sought after by local fisherman in the Balearic Islands. Highly praised for its meat, this fish is targeted deep sea fishing in Mallorca with squid or cut bait in rocky areas (usually 40 meters deep or more).

Dolphinfish or Mahi Mahi

This feisty fish, also known as dorado or dolphin fish, is one of the most beautiful fish. The adult male and female dolphinfish can be told apart by their different fronts. Females have a rounder front, whereas males have a more pronounced front.

Green and yellow in color, Mahi Mahi frequents Mallorca in the months of August, September & October. An admired game fish, the fight to reel this lively fish in the boat is a thrill for all anglers. A challenging catch to fish for, Mahi Mahi is also delicious!

Dolphinfish are mainly caught trolling small lures and feathers. They are good fighters and offten make impressive leaps during the fight.

Bluefin Tuna

Bluefin Tuna are definitely a top fish to catch off the north shores of Mallorca. The Balearic Islands are one of the most important spawning grounds of this "king of the seas." Although the best time to catch tuna is spring and summer when the waters are warm, bluefin tuna can be caught throughout the year in the waters of Alcudia for example. Anglers have shared that the best time to catch Bluefin Tuna ranges from May to early November.

Around the Balearic Islands, tuna use to feed in deeper waters on mackerel and horse mackerel. Top water fishing frenzies are rather rare here. Tuna are mostly caught trolling or chumming (with sardines, mackerel, ...).

Albacore

Usually, albacore are caught offshore trolling plugs and squidlike lures. Albacore is a good eating fish and very popular among sport fishermen. In June and July several prestigious offshore trolling tournaments - like Cala d'Or - are held and the main species is the albacore. The best time to catch albacore in Mallorca is May through August.

Swordfish

The swordfish is a migratory predator that is characterized by its long, flat peak (like a sword). At the adult stage, they lose all their teeth and scales.

Prevalent in the Mediterranean, Billfish, Marlin, and Swordfish are most angler’s favorite fish to catch. Putting up a fun fight, these giant creatures are also good-looking! Fishermen live to tell the tales of these kinds of catches. Night fishing off the coast of Spain is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The winter months are the best time to target swordfish, although it is an uncommon fish; hooking a swordfish in Mallorca isn't easy, getting one to the boat is even harder. You definitely need a skilled fishing guide and fishing charter to target this magnificent hunter.

Dentex

Dentex is also a popular species to seek and eat the angler’s most beloved fish of the Mediterranean. Another delicious fish and a staple in the diet of the many cultures living along the Mediterranean Sea. Solitary fish by nature, Dentex often form schools in the spring season. Dentex can be caught with live bait (mackerel, squid…) or jigging.

Grouper

A myriad of Dusky Grouper swim in the Mediterranean Sea and are the perfect catch for beginner anglers. Grouper is another tasty fish often found on the menu throughout the world, but definitely a favored fish in Spanish cuisine.

Charter Fishing in Mallorca is the best way to catch the most fish. Explore the local captains and charter a boat to take you on a most memorable fishing adventure. Having a local captain increases your chances of catching the big fish. Mallorca’s rocky coast is a popular place for rock fishing, which will lead anglers to Seabream, Grouper, and Cuttlefish. Shore fishing on the beautiful beaches along the Balearic Island of Mallorca is a relaxing way to pass the time. Kayak Fishing is fun and allows you to explore the charming caves along the rocky beaches.

Fishing trip Mallorca in Spring

Late May, is great to target species such as bluefin tuna, white tuna (albacore), short bill speerfish and dorado (dolphinfish). Bluefin tuna pass through the channel of Ibiza, finding their way across the Gulf of Valencia to the Delta del Ebro to spawn around the Balearic Islands.

These are large specimens such as albacore of 10kg-20kg and 15kg–50kg tunas. It is usually best to fish them trolling. Occasionally, shortbill speerfish can be an exciting side catch during your fishing trip in Mallorca.

Inshore, there's good reef fishing and also dentex fishing using squid.

Summer

In June, shoals of fish move in places called the "S" and "Tower", located in southern Mallorca. In June and July, the albacore move eastwards to "Ses Mamelles". In Mallorca in summer, you can fish mainly by chumming and the best areas are between Majorca and Ibiza, north of Cabo Formenter and also an area located to the east of Porto Colom and Porto Cristo.

Autumn

Spin fishing and light tackle trolling are the main techniques in Autumn. Sevaral tuna species (juvenile bluefin tuna, false albacore, melva, bonito...) and dolphinfish can be caught using feathers, plugs and other artificials.

Winter

Reef fishing is the best technique for your sea fishing in Mallorca during the winter months. There's a wide variety of fish species including Caproig or red scorpion fish, black spot sea bream, conger eel and forkbeard. You can also do squid fishing in Mallorca.

All year round fishing in Mallorca

Year round anglers go jigging over the reefs, wrecks and dropoffs to target dentex, amber jack or grouper.

Bottom fishing bait including worm, squid, cuttlefish and cut fish species such as black spot sea bream, forkbeard, white sea bream, caproig, mackerel, grouper and conger are caught.

In Alcudia, you can fish bluefin tuna all year. A few miles from the coastline is the "song", where the ocean floor falls 1000m. Tuna and swordfish permanently live in this area and feed mainly on mackerel. In this area of Mallorca storms are very common, although on calm days, you can enjoy authentic landscapes of the waters of Alcudia.

Secret Fishing Spots

Mallorca is the largest archipelagic Balearic Island so knowing the secret fishing spots will help steer you in the right direction. Palma, the capital of Mallorca, is a popular travel destination and fishing spot to catch Grouper, Dentex, and Seabream. If you are looking for a quiet fishing spot for the same species, head to Puerto de Pollença, a small town on the island’s north end. Then there is the fishing village of Puerto de Soller where you will find the most Dentex and Grouper. Cala d’Or is the place to be for Billfish, Mahi Mahi, and Bluefin Tuna.

Apart from sea fishing in Mallorca you can also go cycling, kite surfing, mountain biking, wine tasting experience, snorkeling & diving, sailing, hiking and much much more.

When visiting Mallorca, there are several must-see attractions and experiences you shouldn't miss. Here are five of them:

1. Palma de Mallorca: Start your trip by exploring the island's capital, Palma de Mallorca. Visit the impressive Palma Cathedral (La Seu), a Gothic masterpiece located right by the sea. Wander through the charming old town, stroll along the Paseo del Borne, and discover historic landmarks like Bellver Castle. Don't forget to indulge in delicious local cuisine at one of the city's many fantastic restaurants.

2. Serra de Tramuntana: This UNESCO World Heritage-listed mountain range is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the stunning landscapes, picturesque villages like Valldemossa and Deià, and hike along the well-marked trails. The scenic drive along the mountain roads offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the island.

3. Sa Calobra: Located in the northwest coast of Mallorca, Sa Calobra is a small village known for its natural beauty. The highlight here is the Torrent de Pareis, a dramatic gorge carved by a mountain stream. Take a boat trip or drive along the winding road, known as the Coll dels Reis, to enjoy the scenic route leading to this unique destination.

4. Cap de Formentor: Head to the northernmost point of the island and explore Cap de Formentor. Enjoy the stunning viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, visit the iconic lighthouse, and take in the breathtaking cliffs and rugged coastline. The drive to Cap de Formentor offers numerous photo opportunities, so make sure to bring your camera.

5. Cala d'Or and Cala Mondragó Natural Park: For a taste of Mallorca's beautiful beaches, head to the southeastern coast. Cala d'Or is a popular resort town known for its charming coves, crystal-clear waters, and lively atmosphere. Nearby, you'll find Cala Mondragó Natural Park, a protected area with stunning beaches, hiking trails, and rich biodiversity.

Remember, Mallorca has much more to offer, including hidden beaches, traditional villages, and delicious local cuisine. Don't be afraid to explore and discover the island's hidden gems during your visit.

Also, enjoy the local food in the hundreds of bars & restaurants from the island. Try ensaimada, sandwich with sobrasada, a Caproig a la brasa, bullit de peix...

To arrive in Mallorca, you can go by plane and land at the airport of Palma de Mallorca which is 8km east of Palma, the capital of Mallorca. Once on the island, you can use the well connected rail, metro or bus services.

All anglers over 14 years need a fishing license to fish in fresh water and salt water which can be obtained on the website from the Gobern de les Illes Balears:

>> Buy a fishing licence

remember that the fishing charters in Mallorca normally have the fishing license included in the price, so you don't need to buy one if you're chartering a boat.

Depending on the charter fishing boat and on the duration of your fishing tour, you’ll pay more or less for the tour. The price for a shared 4 hour Mallorca fishing trip is possible from 110€ per person. A half day trip private charter costs 650€, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you 1050€ tot 1350€.

What does the price include?

The price usually includes the captain, fishing tackle, fuel, bait & lures and licenses. On every listing we indicate whether drinks and food are included.

Once you’ve made a booking, the captain will contact you to arrange the meeting point and the departure time. Also, we recommend you contact the captain a couple of days before the tour to confirm the weather forecast.