Top Fish Species in the Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands are world-famous for their giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. But below the surface, the surrounding waters are just as spectacular. The islands sit at the meeting point of powerful ocean currents, which creates one of the richest marine ecosystems in the world.
For anglers, this means an unforgettable fishing experience. Whether you’re looking for the thrill of reeling in a marlin or the fast action of tuna and wahoo, the Galapagos offers it all.
Here’s your guide to the top fish species you can catch in the Galapagos and when to expect them.
Marlin: The Big-Game Prize
Best Season: December to May
Where You’ll Find Them: Offshore, trolling in deeper waters
What to Expect: Marlin are the giants of Galapagos fishing. Blue and striped marlin are both present, and peak activity is during the warm season when the seas are calmer and the water temperatures are higher. They are fast, powerful, and put up a fight that makes them the ultimate target for big-game sportfishing.
Tuna: Fast and Fierce
Best Season: Year-round, with peaks June to November
Where You’ll Find Them: Open waters and near schooling baitfish
What to Expect: The Galapagos is home to several tuna species, including yellowfin, bigeye, and skipjack. Tuna are fast, aggressive, and travel in large schools, which makes for high-energy fishing. The cool season brings nutrient-rich currents that draw in massive schools, making this an excellent time to target them.
Wahoo: Speed and Power
Best Season: June to November
Where You’ll Find Them: Offshore and near current edges
What to Expect: Known for their incredible bursts of speed, wahoo are one of the most exciting fish to catch in the Galapagos. They are also excellent eating, making them a favorite for both sport and table fare. The cool season is their peak, though they can be found at other times as well.
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): The Acrobat
Best Season: December to May
Where You’ll Find Them: Near floating debris and weed lines
What to Expect: Brightly colored and known for their spectacular leaps out of the water, dorado add excitement to any trip. They are especially active during the warm season and often strike aggressively on trolling lines. Their vibrant colors and delicious taste make them a highlight of the catch.
Snapper and Grouper: Bottom Fishing Rewards
Best Season: Year-round
Where You’ll Find Them: Around reefs and rocky bottoms near the islands
What to Expect: If trolling offshore is not your style, bottom fishing near the islands offers excellent opportunities to land snapper and grouper. These species are available throughout the year and provide a more relaxed, hands-on style of fishing compared to chasing pelagic giants.
🌊 The Importance of Pesca Vivencial
In the Galapagos, fishing is only allowed under a special program called pesca vivencial. This ensures that fishing remains sustainable and benefits local communities. Trips are operated exclusively by licensed local captains who follow strict guidelines to protect the ecosystem. By joining one of these charters, you’re not only enjoying world-class fishing but also supporting the conservation of this extraordinary place.
🎟 Plan Your Fishing Trip with Blue Galapagos
Fishing in the Galapagos is more than just casting a line. It’s an opportunity to experience the islands from a new perspective, to connect with local traditions, and to test your skills against some of the most exciting fish in the Pacific.
At Blue Galapagos, we offer fully licensed pesca vivencial trips led by local captains who know these waters best. Whether your goal is a marlin trophy or a day of action-packed tuna and wahoo fishing, we’ll build the experience around you.