Azores: Fishing trip with local lunch & drinks

Summary

Fishing, cooking, & sharing stories on the Azores coast

You’ll head out early on an Azores fishing trip with a local guide, try your hand at bottom fishing, then help clean your catch before enjoying a relaxed outdoor lunch of fresh fish (or traditional dishes if you prefer), plus unlimited wine, beer, cheeses, and good company — all set against island views you’ll remember long after the meal ends.

What’s the experience like?

We pushed off from São Miguel just after sunrise — the kind of morning where the air tastes salty and you can’t quite tell if it’ll rain or not. Our guide, João, handed me a rod and grinned like he knew something I didn’t. The boat rocked gently as we drifted out to deeper water. I’m not much of a fisherman (my last catch was probably a rubber boot), but João showed me how to bait the line anyway. He told us about his grandfather’s favorite fishing spots — apparently we were floating right above one.

The first bite surprised me — sharp tug, then nothing, then another. I laughed out loud when I finally reeled in a small grouper, hands slippery and heart thumping. The sea was quiet except for our voices and the occasional gull circling overhead. There was this moment where João sliced open a lemon for us to smell — said it keeps your hands from smelling like fish all day. Didn’t totally work, but I liked the gesture.

Back at shore, we cleaned our catch together (I tried not to mess it up too badly), and João fired up a little grill right by the water. Lunch was simple: grilled fish we’d caught ourselves, some local cheese that tasted like grass and salt, bread still warm from somewhere nearby, and vinho verde poured into mismatched glasses. Someone brought out beer too — honestly lost track of how many bottles were opened. We sat there eating with our fingers, talking about football and weather and why Azorean cows look so happy.

I didn’t expect to feel so much part of things — like for those few hours we belonged here too. The sun came out just as we finished eating, lighting up everything in that weird bright way only islands seem to manage. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m back home making dinner; it’s different when you’ve caught it yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Fishing and Lunch in Azores

• Fishing with breathtaking views
• Lunch with freshly caught fish and local dishes

Top questions

Is lunch included on this Azores fishing trip?

Yes, lunch is included — you’ll eat the fish you catch or choose from traditional local dishes.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and bottled water are included throughout the experience.

Can children join this fishing tour in the Azores?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available if needed.

Do I need fishing experience to join?

No experience is necessary; your local guide will show you what to do.

Is equipment provided for fishing?

All fishing gear is provided as part of the tour.

What if I don’t want to eat fish?

You can choose traditional local dishes instead of fish for lunch if you prefer.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted on board.

What’s included

Your day includes all fishing equipment and guidance from a local expert; bottled water plus unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks; cleaning and cooking of your catch (or traditional food options); local cheeses; taxes; and family-friendly amenities like infant seats or stroller access if needed.