Are you daydreaming of an unforgettable adventure, spearfishing the Azore Islands? Trust me, I have been there too… Whether you’re a noob spearo or a pro, the Azores offer a world of crystal-clear waters brimming with diverse marine life, perfect for your next underwater hunt. 

Why choose the Azores, you might ask? 

Beyond the breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming locals, these islands are a spearfishing paradise throughout the year: 

From the adrenaline-pumping chase of big game like Marlin and Tuna during the peak seasons to the joy of reef fishing any time you fancy, there’s always something in these waters calling your name.

But that’s not all. 

As you dive deeper into our guide, you’ll uncover some of the top spearfishing spots in the Azores, learn about the must-have gear, get familiar with Azore Spearfishing Laws, and find out how to get your spearfishing license in the Azores.

Azores Spearfishing Licence

Before you get into the water, let us get the red tape out of the way.

Here’s how you can get your spearfishing license in the Azore islands, ensuring you’re all set for a legal and hassle-free experience in these rich and diverse waters:

 Where to Apply for the License: 

  • RIAC Office: Convenient locations throughout the Azores. 

I would highly recommend to go to the nearest RIAC Office. Just ask for “licença de pesca submarina” and they will take care of you.

When you apply for your spearfishing license, make sure you take cash and your passport. 

The whole process takes around 10 minutes, plus any additional time for those in queue ahead of you.

It’s crucial to request a receipt upon receiving your license. This receipt acts as a duplicate of your original license. Should you misplace the main document, the license can be reissued using this receipt as proof of your initial application. 

There’s no need to carry your license with you in the water; instead, keep it in a dry and safe place. If you’re checked by authorities and don’t have your license on hand, you’re given 24 hours to present it to the authorities. 

As long as the license was issued before the time of the check, you’ll be fine.

License Cost:

  • Three Years: €75
  • One Year: €25 
  • Per Month: €10
  • Per Day: €5

Other options to get the spearfishing licence in the Azores are:

  • Regional Fisheries Directorate (Search/Ask for “Direção Regional das Pescas”)
  • Delegations of the Regional Fisheries Directorate: Available in Terceira or S. Miguel for easier access. 
  • Nautical Associations or Sailing Clubs: Local clubs often provide licensing services.

Spearfishing Laws & Regulations in the Azores

It was pretty tough finding some info, but I ended up finding an official portuguese document from 2007 that listed the following spearfishing rules for the azores.

Most of the spearfishing rules for the Azores are similar to all the other European countries.

Here is a quick rundown:

  1. Spearfishing is only allowed using freediving techniques without any artificial or auxiliary breathing devices, except for a snorkel. 
  2. You can use hand-held or thrown weapons, provided their propelling force isn’t from explosive chemicals or artificially compressed gas. 
  3. Weapons used in spearfishing must only project a spear or harpoon with points. 
  4. It’s forbidden to carry or have onboard a combination of any artificial or auxiliary breathing devices with spearfishing weapons, except for a snorkel. 
  5. You are not allowed to carry loaded spearfishing weapons out of water or in areas where spearfishing is prohibited (obviously… lol).
  6. Spearfishing must be indicated on the surface by a spherical or cylindrical yellow, orange, or red buoy equipped with a flag.
  7. You cannot spearfish within 300 meters of commercial, passenger, and fishing ports classified as classes A, B, and C, or within 100 meters of ports classified as class D and smaller ports. 
  8. Spearfishing is not allowed within 100 meters of frequently used bathing areas. Nighttime spearfishing between sunset and sunrise is prohibited.

Funny: There is actually no legislation regarding the use of a scooter while spearfishing. So you could use an underwater scooter for getting down there.

Capture Limits for Spearfishing

The total number of fish and octopus that can be captured by each recreational spearfisher is limited to 10 per day.

The total number of crustaceans that can be captured by each spearo is limited to two per day.

Legal Minimum Fish Sizes in the Azores

I had some more luck finding pretty up-to-date (2015) info on Minimum Conservation Reference Sizes (MCRSs) in the Azores. As always I would recommend listening to official local regulations first, then checking out official country wide regulations for Portugal and at the end consulting EU regulations if there is no info on certain other species.

I have compiled a table for you for different species relevant for spearos from said documents:


Species (Common and Latin Name) Minimum Legal Size
Red Seabream (Pagellus acarne) 18 cm
European Conger (Conger conger) 133 cm or 5 kg
Blackspot Seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo) 30 cm or 400 g
Common Seabream (Pagrus pagrus) 20 cm
Rays (Raja spp. and Leucoraja spp.) 52 cm
Salema (Sarpa salpa) 18 cm
Striped Red Mullet (Mullus surmuletus) 15 cm
White Seabream (Diplodus spp.) 15 cm
Slipper Lobster (Scyllarides latus) 17 cm
Swordfish (Xiphias gladius) 125 cm or 25 kg
Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus) 115 cm or 30 kg
European Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) 42 cm
Meagre (Argyrosomus regius) 42 cm
White Seabream (Diplodus sargus) 17 cm
Two-banded Seabream (Diplodus vulgaris) 22 cm
Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) 19 cm
Salema (Sarpa salpa) 18 cm
Octopus (Octopus vulgaris) 750 g
Mackerel (Scomber spp.) 20 cm
Horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.) 15 cm
Sardine (Sardina pilchardus) 11 cm
Crawfish (Palinurus spp.) 95 mm
Sole (Solea spp.) 24 cm

Closed Seasons for Fishing Certain Species

  • Blackspot Seabream (Goraz/Peixão; Pagellus bogaraveo): January 15th to February 29th
  • Slipper Lobster (Cavaco; Scyllarides latus) and Lesser Slipper Lobster (Cavaco-anão; Scyllarides arcturus): May 1st to August 31st
  • European Spiny Lobster (Lagosta; Palinurus elephas) and Spiny Spider Crab (Santola; Maja brachydactila): October 1st to March 31st
  • Rough Limpet (Lapa-brava; Patella aspera): May 15th to August 15th
  • Common Limpet (Lapa-mansa; Patella candei gomesii): October 1st to April 30th

Protected (Fish) Species in the Azores

Protected Fish Species Azores Dusky Grouper (Epinephelus_marginatus)
Source: Parent Géry, CC BY-SA 3.0, creativecommons.org via Wikimedia Commons

Spearfishing for Dusky Grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) is prohibited in the Azores.

Other species that might be endangered are listed here (most of them not relevant for spearos), but so far it was difficult to find information on more species that are prohibited to spear.

If you know more, let me know in the comments! 🙂

Marine Protected Areas in the Azores

The most protected islands are Santa Maria and Faial. Here are some of the MPAs that I have found where you at least need to double check if you an spearfish there.

Corvo Island, Grouper Bay (Caneiro dos Meros)

Grouper Bay in the Azores is a unique, protected area, set up by locals to keep it free of fishing. This has helped increase fish numbers, including our friend, the dusky grouper.

The University of the Azores has chosen it for special studies because of this success. It’s a no-fishing zone, showing how local actions can help preserve marine life for the future.

Spearfishermen visiting should respect this no-catch zone, contributing to the preservation of marine biodiversity for future generations.

Faial-Pico Channel

Several sources indicate the presence of regulated zones in this area. Two documents I found suggest the existence of restricted areas in the channel around Ilheus da Madalena, Monte da Guia, and Baixa da Barca.

I would advise you to ask some fishermen locally if you are planning a trip close to these areas.

Santa Maria

Eight Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) surround the island, categorized as follows: Formigas Islets and Ilhéu da Vila are nature reserves; Baía de São Lourenço, Costa Norte, and Costa Sul are designated as resource management areas; and Baixa do Ambrosio, Baixa da Maia, and Baixa da Pedrinha are recognized as special areas for diving. Additionally, an artificial underwater park is situated in the shallow waters near Praia Formosa (if you consider only going freediving).

In Baixa da Maia fishing is forbidden for sure. 

Faial Picao Channel no Fishing Zones
Source: The Faial-Pico Channel
Stakeholder Workshop 2017

Azores Fish Species for Spearfishing

Okay, we got all the red tape out of the way. Now let’s talk fish. I compiled a little overview for all the important Azores fish species you can spearfish:

Amberjacks (Seriola rivoliana & Seriola dumerili)

Source: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0 creativecommons.org, via Wikimedia Commons

When you’re targeting Amberjacks in the Azores, you’re mainly going after two types:

The Almaco Jack (Seriola rivoliana) and the Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili). Both are incredible catches, but there are a few tricks to get them on your spear. 

Where to find them:

You can spot Seriola dumerili deeper, around underwater mountains and sharp drop-offs. Seriola rivoliana hang out a bit shallower, from the surface down to mid-water. A good map or a charting app like Navionics is your best friend here to locate those perfect spots. 

How to catch them:

Here’s a tip that works for both: hang out near the surface and make some noise. Rubbing your speargun’s rubber or even tapping your teeth can grab their attention. Be sneaky about it. You want to lure them in, not scare them away.

Understanding their behavior:

Young Seriola rivoliana like to stick together, but grown-ups from both species prefer their own company. They’re curious but cautious. If you play it cool and stay hidden, they’ll come to check you out, which is your chance to strike.

White Trevally (Pseudocaranx Dentex)

White Trevally Pseudocaranx Dentex
Source: Philippe Guillaume, CC BY 2.0 creativecommons.org, via Wikimedia Commons

The White Trevally is known for gathering close to shore in the early summer days, forming large schools. This fish, frequently found across the archipelago, prefers specific caves or large arches for nesting. Their habit of congregating in these areas, sometimes alongside other species, makes them particularly susceptible to spearfishing. 

Knowing these nesting spots makes it significantly easier for you  to locate and catch them. So maybe buy your local guide a beer or two..

Bluefish (Pomatomus Saltatrix)

Where to find them: The Bluefish is one of the bigger species you can find in shallow waters, where they are hunting smaller fish like white seabreams. They’re also spotted around offshore banks or pinnacles, gathering in large schools for breeding.

How to spear them: Spearos on the Azores often use spearguns ranging from 100 to 120 cm, using techniques like free-falling or waiting

Because Bluefish flesh can easily tear, careful shot placement and fish handling are crucial, and watch out for their sharp teeth.

Their behaviour: Larger Bluefish tend to be alone and wary but can be lured in with patient, calm waiting. They’re also known to swim with other large species, like Amberjacks, making an encounter with a school of Bluefish a potential opportunity to spot and attract Amberjacks too.

Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri)

The Wahoo, often referred to as Ono, presents a unique challenge for spearfishers in the Azores. Spotting these elusive fish can be quite difficult, as they only pass through the archipelago for a brief period (August to September) each year. 

Yellowmouth Barracuda (Sphyraena viridensis)

Source: Lars Behnke, CC BY 2.0 creativecommons.org via Wikimedia Commons

Yellowmouth Barracudas are commonly encountered around the Azores’ banks, they are especially active from April to October

Where to find them: 

You can spot them by observing Cory’s Shearwaters, as these birds often indicate the presence of barracudas and other predators. During this period, they aggressively hunt in large schools, targeting schools of mackerels and sardines. 

Typically found far from shore, especially around water pinnacles, barracudas position themselves in the up current. 

How to spear them: 

You will be successful by adopting free-fall techniques aimed at approaching the fish from their blind spotsabove and behind the head.  Since they  can be shy and weigh over ten kilos, making them a challenge to get close to, a speargun with a longer range might be your friend. 

They are known for their tasty, fatty meat, so you might want to pop them on the grill (like almost any other fish… lol.).

Bluefin and Bigeye Tuna 

With species like the massive Bluefin (Thunnus thynnus Linnaeus) and agile Bigeye (Thunnus obesus) migrating through these waters, knowing when and where to find them is key.

Targeting Tuna: Bluefin tuna prefer deeper waters, while Bigeye might be found closer to the surface. Each species has its own patterns, so recognizing these will guide your hunt. 

Gear Up: You’ll need strong equipment for these powerful fish. A blue water speargun, float line, and buoy are essential to manage the fight after a successful hit. Precision in your shot is crucial due to the strength and size of tuna. 

Find more about spearfishing bluefin tuna in my guide for this species!

Also, keep an eye on local conditions and seasons, as warmer months usually see more activity.

Island Grouper (Mycteroperca fusca)

Island-Grouper-Mycteroperca-Fusca
Source: Julien Renoult, CC BY 4.0, creativecommons.org, via Wikimedia Commons

Unlike their cousin the Dusky Grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) you are allowed to spear the Island Grouper (Mycteroperca fusca).Catching them is not prohibited by law but they are on the Red List of Threatened Species and classified as vulnerable.

So spear them with care- or if you can, leave them be.

Where to find them: The curious Island Groupers love rocky drop-offs and deep underwater structures. They’re not too keen on open water, so look for places where the ocean floor gets interesting. Big rocks, overhangs, and caves are where it’s at. They’re often solitary, so when you spot one, take a moment to plan your approach.

Spearfishing Azores Season

Spearfishing offers year-round opportunities thanks to mild winters and consistently good reef fishing. However, timing is essential for those targeting specific species. The big game season commences in April with Tuna, setting the stage for Billfish season. 

June stands out as the optimal time to visit, with Tuna and Marlin seasons intersecting. For comprehensive spearfishing experiences, the months of June through September are ideal. Bluewater hunting, focusing on Tuna, Marlin, and Wahoo, is best from mid-July through September and into the first half of October.

Best Locations for Spearfishing in the Azores

I know there is a debate about sharing your spearfishing spots. But I believe whoever is reading this blog is responsible spearo and cares about sustainable spearfishing.

So I will be sharing two of the spots that I think might be most suitable for starting your spearfishing journey in the Azores:

Princess Alice Banks

Location: 45-50 miles from Faial or Pico; 180 min by boat from Horta Harbour or Madalena.

Depth: 35m average, down to 60m.

Currents: Moderate to strong.

Dive Type: Seamount.

Experience Level: Advanced Open Water Spearos.

Highlights: A renowned dive site for its diversity and clarity of water, offering visibility up to 40m. Home to devil rays, Atlantic bonito, and Almaco jacks. So bring out the big guns! The ascent is usually near the anchor cable amidst a rich water column filled with large pelagics, including giant mantas and sharks. The reef’s ecosystem boasts island groupers, dusky groupers, and an array. This spot is your chance to get a large amberjack.

Spearfishing São Miguel Azores- Arcos da Caloura

São Miguel Coastline, Source: Sokmean Nou | Unsplash

Location: Sheltered bay, 300m off the coast. 15 min from Vila Franca do Campo Marina, 30 min from Ponta Delgada Marina. 

Depth: 12m average, up to 18m. 

Currents: Weak. 

Dive Type: Coastal, Cave. 

Experience Level: Suitable for all divers, from snorkeling to more advanced cave diving. 

Highlights: Arcos da Caloura is known for its accessible reef top at 5 meters, descending to 20 meters where spearfishermen can explore one of the four entrances to an impressive cave at 16 meters. Inside, large white trevallies and resident dusky groupers are common. The cave’s ceiling attracts numerous nudibranch species. Surrounding the cave, you can encounter moray eels, Guinean puffers, Mediterranean rainbow wrasses, wide-eyed flounders, ornate wrasses, salema porgies, Azores chromis, parrotfish, and blacktail combers, making it a diverse spot for underwater hunting and photography.

Ocean Conditions in the Azores

TIn the Azores, in the middle of the Atlantic, the water is super clear for spearfishing and freediving. The visibility can be amazing: 10 to 30 meters! 

But, the sea around these islands can be tricky with strong currents that change a lot. When you go out to sea here, you need to plan well. São Jorge’s Rosais and Topo are top spots but come with risks, notably Topo’s strong currents (a spearo drowned here a while back).  Using a boat is not just handy; it’s important for staying safe and making your fishing trip better. 

Beware of sharks, the strong currents, large waves, and whirlpools. At some spots, the depth increases rapidly, so exercise caution. 

When dealing with sharks, ensure fish are kept away from your body by placing them on your float immediately after shooting. It’s advisable to bring a sturdy float with you. Exercise caution when entering the water, especially in the face of significant waves. Seek out sheltered areas whenever possible (check the forecasts).

As always- take a buddy with you!! 
Local Advice: In Flores Island’s Ponta Delgada area, beware of Portuguese men-of-war (Physalia physalis), particularly around the marina.

Gear for Spearfishing in the Azores

Speargun Choice for Azores Waters

For Shallow Waters and Reef Fishing

In the Azores shorter, more maneuverable speargun, around 75 to 90 cm, is ideal for shallow water spearfishing. These sizes offer better control and accuracy in the rocky reefs common around the Azores. They’re perfect for targeting species like white seabream or the Azorean parrotfish.

For Blue Water Hunting 

If you’re aiming for larger pelagic species like White Trevallys, Amberjacks, or even bluefin tuna in deeper waters, a longer speargun is necessary. Consider guns in the range of 110 to 130 cm, equipped with a thicker shaft and more powerful bands. This setup ensures you have the reach and power needed to land these larger fish effectively.

Wetsuit Choice for the Azores

Average water temperatures Azores
Average water temperatures azores, Source: seatemperature.org

Your wetsuit choice depends on the time you will be visiting the Azores.

If you are visiting in Summer (August-September) you could use a 3 or 4mm wetsuit (depending on you personal tolerance).

For early summer and autumn (June, July and October) I would recommend 5mm.

Personally I like to stay long in the water, so I would always go with the warmer option.

FAQ

Can you spearfish in the Azores?

Yes, you can spearfish in the Azores. With great bluewater hunting and a visibility up to 30 meters, the Archipelago is one of the best spearfishing destinations in Europe. Make sure you procure your spearfishing license and respect Marine Protected Areas.

Which Azores island has the best diving?

The best diving can be found in the area around Santa Maria. There is an abundance of marine life since it is a Marine Protected Area (MPA) and many dive sites to explore.

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Diving headfirst into the world of spearfishing, I have a simple mission: From Zero to Hero. And I'm here to share that journey with you. SPEARZEN is for all the noob spearos out there. Catching fish is fun. But I believe the journey is as valuable as the catch itself. From sustainability to skill mastery. Join me as we explore the depths, face challenges, and celebrate the spirit of spearfishing.

4 Comments

  1. Hallo Björn, ich werde in kurzer Zeit auf Sao Miguel meinen Urlaub verbringen dürfe. Da du über die Insel geschrieben hast, gehe ich davon aus, dass du dort auch eine Lizenz erworben hast. Ich wollte dich fragen, wo du das gemacht hast? Außerdem würde ich gerne wissen, ob man als minderjähriger ebenfalls eine Lizez erwerben kann.
    Sehr guter und sehr hilfreicher Post. Danke

    LG

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