Skip to content
Travelust

Places worth traveling for

Spearfishing in Mauritius

Spearfishing in Mauritius

Places in Mauritius. On the map.

The vibe

Spearfishing here is subject to strict local marine conservation rules and heavily monitored waters, making it largely impractical for casual visiting tourists looking to drop in with a pole spear. Most coastal zones prohibit taking marine life outside of tightly regulated commercial frameworks or specialized local club events. Visitors will find virtually no open recreational infrastructure or charter setups catering to this pursuit.

specialist marine permit

  • Mauritius North Coast (Grand Baie & Coin de Mire)

    Rivière du Rempart District

    gailhampshire from Cradley, Malvern, U.K / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

    Surrounding the volcanic islets off Grand Baie, including Coin de Mire and Flat Island, this northern zone features steep drop-offs, pinnacles, and rich pelagic action. Spearfishers encounter wahoo, barracuda, and large reef species amid clear blue waters. The offshore seamounts and current-swept channels create dynamic hunting conditions.

    Access. Charter boats depart daily from Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches. While general dive shops focus on scuba, specialized offshore fishing operators and local spear-guides run targeted trips to the northern islets.

    Notes. Mauritian fisheries regulations apply, requiring permits for certain commercial or guided operations and strictly forbidding takes inside marine protected zones. Night spearfishing and the use of SCUBA while hunting are illegal. Check with local authorities for seasonal closures.

  • Mauritius South East Coast (Blue Bay & Mahebourg)

    Mauritius

    otterboris / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

    The south-east coast offers rugged reef structures and deeper channels that provide excellent hunting grounds for snapper and grouper. This area is less sheltered than the north, creating dynamic water conditions that attract experienced spearfishers looking for challenging reef environments.

    Access. Spearfishing-specific charters can be arranged through local boat captains based in Mahebourg who specialize in big game and reef hunting. Visitors should explicitly request a spearfishing-focused boat, as many operators only cater to line fishing or snorkeling.

    Notes. Spearfishing is permitted in Mauritius but is strictly prohibited within the boundaries of the Blue Bay Marine Park. Visitors must ensure they are outside protected zones and adhere to local size and species restrictions.

  • Mauritius West Coast (Flic en Flac & Tamarin)

    Black River

    Dennis Sylvester Hurd / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

    The sheltered leeward waters off Flic en Flac and Tamarin offer barrier reef drop-offs and open ocean approaches where pelagic fish patrol. Spearfishermen target coral heads and sandy channels for jobfish, sweetlips, and dogtooth tuna further offshore. The dramatic underwater topography and clear visibility make this a premier Indian Ocean hunting ground.

    Access. Specialized spearfishing charters and local bluewater guides operate out of Tamarin Bay and Black River. Visitors can book private boat charters equipped for spearfishing or join experienced local guides who know the outer reef passes.

    Notes. Spearfishing in Mauritius is regulated by the Albion Fisheries Research Centre and fisheries laws. Certain marine parks, reserves, and lagoon areas strictly prohibit spearfishing; hunting must take place outside protected zones and away from public swimming beaches. Always verify current bag limits and gear restrictions with local operators.

  • Rodrigues Island

    Rodrigues

    S Molteno / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Rodrigues is a remote, pristine destination surrounded by a massive lagoon and steep drop-offs that are world-class for both reef and bluewater hunting. The island's isolation ensures less pressure on fish stocks, making it a premier spot for targeting larger pelagics and quality reef species.

    Access. Access is primarily through specialized local fishing guides who operate small boats capable of navigating the lagoon and reaching the outer reef edge. It is a DIY-heavy destination where building a relationship with a local boatman is the key to finding the best spots.

    Notes. Rodrigues has its own local regulations and a strong community-led conservation effort; visitors must check with local authorities regarding seasonal closures and protected areas before heading out.