Big Game Fishing (Charter)

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Big Game Fishing Charters in the Algarve

Step aboard Tiger Lily, a 28 ft Carolina Classic designed specifically for offshore sport fishing, and experience one of the Algarve’s most exciting marine adventures. These private charters offer a serious deep-sea experience for anglers who want the best of everything: expert crew, top-tier equipment, and the chance to target some of the Atlantic’s most powerful pelagic species.

Guided by Captain Spike, a respected fisherman with decades of experience in Portuguese waters, each charter is planned around real-time conditions, seasonal migrations and the crew’s intimate understanding of local offshore grounds. Whether you're chasing your first bluefin or adding to a lifelong record, this is a proper big game setup — no compromise, no shortcuts, just genuine offshore fishing.

During the peak season, Tiger Lily targets some of the most sought-after species in European waters.

  • Bluefin Tuna: Best in late June and July when the fish pass through local waters.
  • White Marlin: Peaks from late July to September with lively surface bites.
  • Blue Marlin: Strongest from July to October — prime marlin season in the Algarve.
  • Mahi-mahi (Dorado): Most common in August and September around warm water and floating debris.

Want to Go Big Game Fishing?

This is a private, seasonal charter run by Captain Spike. Let us know your preferred dates and departure location, and we’ll personally check availability for you.

Departure & Fishing Grounds

  • 1

    Marina de Albufeira

  • 2

    Offshore Fishing Grounds


Good To Know

Private Charter Only

This charter is exclusively private, offering a focused big game experience without shared groups or mixed abilities onboard. Limiting the trip to a maximum of four guests ensures plenty of space on deck, comfortable movement while fighting fish, and a quieter, more controlled environment for serious trolling. With two crew members supporting Captain Spike, every angler receives hands-on attention, from setting spreads to guiding you through the fight.

Seasonal Species

Target species vary throughout the season, and each trip is planned around the migrations and conditions off the Algarve. Bluefin tuna typically arrive in late June and are most active through July. White marlin are common from late July to September and often provide fast, exciting surface takes. Blue marlin peak from July through October, coinciding with the warmest offshore water temperatures. Dorado (mahi-mahi) are most consistent in August and September, usually around temperature breaks and floating structure. Your target species will depend on the time of year, ocean conditions and real-time reports, all of which the crew carefully assesses each morning.

First-Class Gear & Equipment

Tiger Lily is equipped exclusively with premium big game gear suited for tuna and marlin. Rods, reels, leaders and lures are all meticulously maintained, ensuring reliability during long runs and heavy fights. The boat’s spread is set up for offshore trolling, with purpose-built outriggers, fighting chair, and dedicated tackle stations. You don’t need to bring any equipment unless you have personal gear you wish to fish with — simply step aboard and everything is ready to go.

Experienced Crew

Captain Spike and his crew bring years of experience fishing the offshore waters south of the Algarve. Their deep knowledge of current lines, bait patterns and seasonal migrations allows them to select the most productive grounds each day. The crew maintains a professional, calm environment and are on hand to assist with everything: setting lures, clearing lines, coaching during fights, and ensuring the entire experience is both safe and successful. Their goal is to put you on fish and give you a proper big game day at sea.

Prime Fishing Grounds

Rather than heading to a single fixed location, the crew evaluates offshore conditions each morning to determine the best area to fish. Depending on currents, temperature breaks and recent activity, you may work along different sections of the continental shelf where tuna, marlin and dorado feed. These grounds typically offer excellent depth, structure and bait concentrations, making them consistently productive throughout the season.

Flexible Duration

Most charters run between seven and nine hours, which allows ample time to reach offshore grounds, troll effectively and adapt to the day’s conditions. On days with active fish or ideal weather, trips may extend longer to maximise your chances. Extended sessions are always at the captain’s discretion, balancing sea conditions, daylight and overall safety to ensure the best possible experience.

Catch & Release

Marlin fishing is conducted with conservation in mind. Most marlin are released after a clean fight to help preserve the species and maintain the health of the offshore fishery. Tuna and dorado may be kept when permitted by local regulations and size limits. The crew will guide you through what is and isn’t allowed on the day, ensuring all catches remain legal and sustainable.

Weather & Availability

Offshore big game fishing is heavily dependent on sea and wind conditions. Trips may need to be rescheduled if the forecast is unsuitable, particularly when targeting marlin farther offshore. Because charters tend to book up during peak months, early enquiry is highly recommended. The final departure marina — normally Albufeira or Vilamoura — will be confirmed once conditions and logistics are assessed for your chosen date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trip suitable for beginners?

This trip is best suited to anglers with some experience or those looking for a proper offshore challenge. While the crew is always happy to guide you, big game fishing is hands-on and physically demanding, especially when targeting tuna or marlin.

What can we catch and when?

Target species change through the season. Bluefin tuna are strongest in late June and July. White marlin run from late July to September. Blue marlin peak July to October, and dorado (mahi-mahi) are most common in August and September. The exact species depends on conditions and what’s active offshore at the time of your trip.

What is the boat's capacity?

The ideal group size is four guests, supported by two crew members. This keeps the cockpit clear, ensures comfort during long offshore sessions, and allows the crew to give proper attention to each angler.

How long is the trip?

Most charters run 7–9 hours, giving enough time to reach offshore grounds and fish effectively. On exceptional days with good conditions or active fish, the trip may extend longer at the captain’s discretion.

Is food or drink included?

This varies depending on the trip setup and season. We’ll confirm details during your enquiry. Regardless, it’s always sensible to bring plenty of water, snacks and anything else you may want for a full day offshore.

Can we keep the fish?

Marlin are almost always released to support sustainable sport fishing. Tuna and dorado may be kept if they meet local regulations and size limits. The crew will advise what is permitted on the day.

Where does the trip depart from?

Departures are normally from Albufeira or Vilamoura Marina. The exact marina is confirmed at the time of booking based on conditions, logistics and target species.

What should we bring?

We recommend sun protection, layered clothing, a hat, non-slip footwear and motion sickness tablets if required. Aside from that, bring a good attitude and plenty of enthusiasm — all fishing equipment is provided.

Looking for more information?

If you need any more information please get in touch.

justask@foreveralgarve.com

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