The Society Islands, French Polynesia, are a spectacular destination for anglers looking for a deep sea fishing adventure in the South Pacific. Surrounded by deep ocean waters, coral reefs, channels, and offshore drop-offs, the islands provide a variety of fishing environments for both experienced anglers and beginners.

The archipelago includes popular islands such as Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea, Taha’a, Huahine, and Bora Bora. Depending on the location and season, anglers may have opportunities to target tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin, giant trevally, and other pelagic and reef fish.

Whether you are planning a private fishing charter, a family fishing trip, or a serious big-game adventure, choosing the right island and fishing location can make a major difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the 25 best deep sea fishing spots in the Society Islands, including top locations, target species, fishing seasons, and useful charter tips.

Best Deep Sea Fishing in Tahiti (French Polynesia)

Papeete Fishing Grounds

Papeete is the main maritime center of Tahiti and a major departure point for offshore sport-fishing charters. The waters beyond the lagoon quickly transition toward deep Pacific grounds, where currents, reef edges, and offshore drop-offs attract pelagic game fish. Anglers can target yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, blue marlin, and other billfish depending on season and sea conditions. Full-day and half-day charters commonly depart from the Papeete waterfront and explore deeper offshore waters.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ blue marlin ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Lagoon passes ➤ FADs ➤ offshore drop-offs ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Papeete ➤ waterfront hotels ➤ Tahiti resorts

Punaauia Fishing Grounds

Punaauia lies along Tahiti’s western coast and provides convenient access to the island’s deep offshore waters. The nearby reef passes and outer drop-offs create areas where currents and baitfish attract tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and billfish. Anglers can troll along the outer reef and deeper blue-water edges before heading farther offshore. Its proximity to Papeete also makes Punaauia a practical base for both shorter and full-day fishing trips.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ blue marlin ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Western reef passes ➤ FADs ➤ outer reef drop-offs ➤ offshore currents
Where to Stay: Punaauia ➤ Papeete ➤ western Tahiti resorts

Pointe Venus Fishing Grounds

Pointe Venus is located on the northeastern coast of Tahiti, where the island’s reef system opens toward deeper Pacific waters. Offshore areas around the point can provide access to current lines, reef edges, and deep-water contours frequented by migratory pelagic fish. Anglers may encounter yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, blue marlin, and other game fish depending on conditions. The northeastern position also allows boats to explore offshore grounds along the exposed coast beyond Matavai Bay.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ blue marlin ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Reef passes ➤ coastal drop-offs ➤ current lines ➤ deep Pacific water
Where to Stay: Mahina ➤ Papeete ➤ northeastern Tahiti accommodations

Teahupo’o Fishing Grounds

Teahupo’o is situated on the southern coast of Tahiti Iti, where the island’s volcanic coastline meets deep Pacific waters. The outer reef and offshore drop-offs provide access to blue-water habitat where large pelagic fish can follow currents and baitfish. Anglers can target yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, blue marlin, and other offshore species depending on the season. The area’s exposed southern coastline can experience significant swell, making sea conditions an important consideration for offshore fishing.

Types of Fish: Blue marlin ➤ yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Southern reef passes ➤ outer drop-offs ➤ current seams ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Teahupo’o ➤ Tahiti Iti accommodations ➤ southern Tahiti resorts

Tautira Fishing Grounds

Tautira is located on the southeastern coast of Tahiti Iti and provides access to exposed Pacific waters beyond the coastal reef. Offshore currents and steep underwater contours can create feeding areas for tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and billfish. Anglers can work reef passes and deeper drop-offs before moving farther offshore into open blue water. Its southeastern location offers access to a different section of Tahiti’s offshore fishing grounds than the more developed western coast.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ blue marlin ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Southeastern reef passes ➤ deep drop-offs ➤ current lines ➤ open Pacific
Where to Stay: Tautira ➤ Taravao ➤ Tahiti Iti accommodations

Best Deep Sea Fishing in Moorea (French Polynesia)

Cook’s Bay Fishing Grounds

Cook’s Bay is one of Moorea’s major coastal bays, surrounded by steep volcanic mountains and deep lagoon waters. The bay opens toward channels and outer reef areas where currents can concentrate baitfish and attract pelagic predators. Anglers can target yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, blue marlin, and other game fish around reef passes and deeper offshore contours. Fishing trips can begin in the sheltered bay before moving into the open Pacific for larger pelagic species.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ blue marlin ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ reef passes ➤ outer drop-offs ➤ offshore current lines
Where to Stay: Cook’s Bay ➤ Maharepa ➤ Moorea resorts

Opunohu Bay Fishing Grounds

Opunohu Bay is a sheltered volcanic bay on Moorea’s northwestern coast with access to deeper lagoon channels and outer reef waters. The surrounding underwater terrain creates current-driven areas where baitfish can attract tuna and other pelagic predators. Anglers may encounter yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, blue marlin, and skipjack tuna when fishing beyond the reef. Its protected waters also provide a convenient starting point before heading offshore into deeper blue water.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ wahoo ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ reef channels ➤ outer reef edges ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Opunohu Bay ➤ Papetoai ➤ Moorea accommodations

Temae Fishing Grounds

Temae lies on the northeastern side of Moorea near the island’s outer reef and open Pacific waters. The offshore area provides access to deeper drop-offs and reef passes where currents can bring baitfish and migratory pelagic fish together. Anglers can troll for yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, blue marlin, and other game fish around the outer reef. The location also provides convenient access to offshore grounds along Moorea’s northeastern coast.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ blue marlin ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Outer reef drop-offs ➤ reef passes ➤ current seams ➤ open Pacific
Where to Stay: Temae ➤ Maharepa ➤ northeastern Moorea resorts

Haapiti Fishing Grounds

Haapiti is located along Moorea’s southwestern coast and provides access to the outer reef and deep Pacific waters. The reef passes and steep offshore contours can attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and billfish where currents move through the area. Anglers can troll along the reef edge and transition into deeper blue-water grounds farther offshore. Haapiti’s position on the exposed western-southern side of Moorea makes it a useful departure area for offshore fishing trips when sea conditions are favorable.

Types of Fish: Blue marlin ➤ yellowfin tuna ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Southwestern reef passes ➤ outer drop-offs ➤ current lines ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Haapiti ➤ western Moorea resorts ➤ Moorea guesthouses

Best Deep Sea Fishing in Bora Bora (French Polynesia)

Vaitape Fishing Grounds

Vaitape is the main town and maritime center of Bora Bora, providing convenient access to the island’s lagoon, reef passes, and surrounding deep Pacific waters. Offshore areas beyond the barrier reef feature strong current zones and steep drop-offs that can attract tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and billfish. Anglers can combine lagoon-edge fishing with offshore trolling around deeper blue-water grounds. Full-day charters can venture beyond the reef system to target larger pelagic species.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Reef passes ➤ outer reef drop-offs ➤ current lines ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Vaitape ➤ Bora Bora resorts ➤ waterfront hotels

Matira Point Fishing Grounds

Matira Point is located on the southern end of Bora Bora and provides access to lagoon waters and the outer reef toward the open Pacific. The surrounding reef edges and channels can concentrate baitfish and attract pelagic predators moving through the currents. Anglers may encounter yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, blue marlin, and skipjack tuna depending on season and ocean conditions. Offshore trips can move beyond the reef to reach deeper blue-water fishing grounds south of the island.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ blue marlin ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Southern reef edges ➤ current seams ➤ reef passes ➤ offshore drop-offs
Where to Stay: Matira ➤ Vaitape ➤ southern Bora Bora resorts

Faanui Bay Fishing Grounds

Faanui Bay is a sheltered bay on the northwestern side of Bora Bora, surrounded by steep volcanic mountains and a broad lagoon. The bay connects to channels and outer reef areas where currents can move baitfish and attract tuna, wahoo, and other predatory fish. Anglers can fish around the bay entrance and reef edges before heading into deeper offshore waters for pelagic species. Its sheltered setting also provides a practical starting point for fishing trips when conditions outside the reef are more challenging.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ lagoon channels ➤ outer reef edges ➤ offshore blue water
Where to Stay: Faanui ➤ Vaitape ➤ Bora Bora resorts

Teavanui Pass Fishing Grounds

Teavanui Pass is Bora Bora’s main reef pass and provides a direct connection between the lagoon and the open Pacific. Strong tidal currents through the pass can concentrate baitfish and attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and other pelagic predators. Anglers can work the pass edges, current seams, and nearby outer reef before moving into deeper offshore water. The pass is particularly useful for combining reef-edge fishing with access to Bora Bora’s surrounding blue-water grounds.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Pass entrance ➤ tidal currents ➤ outer reef drop-offs ➤ deep Pacific water
Where to Stay: Vaitape ➤ Faanui ➤ Bora Bora resorts and waterfront hotels

Best Deep Sea Fishing in Raiatea (French Polynesia)

Uturoa Fishing Grounds

Uturoa is the main town and maritime center of Raiatea, providing access to the island’s lagoon, reef passes, and surrounding offshore waters. The deeper channels and outer reef areas can attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and billfish where currents concentrate baitfish. Anglers can troll along reef edges and current lines before heading into deeper blue-water grounds beyond the barrier reef. Its location also makes Uturoa a practical base for longer offshore fishing trips around Raiatea and nearby islands.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Reef passes ➤ outer reef drop-offs ➤ current lines ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Uturoa ➤ Raiatea resorts ➤ waterfront hotels

Faaroa Bay Fishing Grounds

Faaroa Bay is a sheltered bay on the eastern side of Raiatea, surrounded by volcanic mountains and connected to the island’s lagoon system. The bay provides access to reef edges, channels, and deeper offshore waters where currents can attract pelagic game fish. Anglers may target yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and billfish when moving beyond the sheltered bay toward the outer reef. Fishing trips can combine protected waters with offshore trolling along the eastern coast.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ lagoon channels ➤ reef edges ➤ offshore drop-offs
Where to Stay: Faaroa ➤ Uturoa ➤ eastern Raiatea accommodations

Miri Miri Fishing Grounds

Miri Miri is a coastal area on Raiatea with access to the island’s lagoon and outer reef waters. The nearby reef structure and current-affected passages can create feeding areas for tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and other pelagic predators. Anglers can work the outer reef and deeper contours before moving offshore toward open Pacific waters. The area is suited to trips that combine reef-edge fishing with longer blue-water trolling.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Outer reef edges ➤ lagoon passes ➤ current seams ➤ deep Pacific water
Where to Stay: Miri Miri ➤ Uturoa ➤ Raiatea resorts

Te Ava Piti Pass Fishing Grounds

Te Ava Piti Pass is a reef passage providing a connection between Raiatea’s lagoon and the open Pacific. Tidal currents moving through the pass can concentrate baitfish and attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and other pelagic predators. Anglers can work the pass entrance, current seams, and nearby outer reef before heading into deeper offshore water. The combination of moving water and access to the outer reef makes the pass a useful location for both reef-edge and blue-water fishing.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Pass entrance ➤ tidal currents ➤ outer reef drop-offs ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Uturoa ➤ eastern Raiatea ➤ Raiatea waterfront accommodations

Best Deep Sea Fishing in Taha’a (French Polynesia)

Tapuamu Fishing Grounds

Tapuamu is a coastal village on the western side of Taha’a with access to the island’s lagoon, reef passes, and surrounding deep Pacific waters. The outer reef and nearby channels can create current-driven feeding areas that attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and other pelagic species. Anglers can troll along the reef edge before moving farther offshore toward deeper blue-water grounds. Its location also provides access to fishing waters between Taha’a and nearby Raiatea.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Reef passes ➤ outer reef edges ➤ current lines ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Tapuamu ➤ Taha’a resorts ➤ western Taha’a accommodations

Haamene Bay Fishing Grounds

Haamene Bay is a sheltered bay on the eastern side of Taha’a, surrounded by lush volcanic terrain and lagoon waters. The bay entrance and surrounding reef structure provide access to deeper channels and current lines where baitfish can attract pelagic predators. Anglers may target yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and billfish when fishing beyond the reef toward open Pacific waters. The protected bay also offers a convenient departure area for longer offshore fishing excursions.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ lagoon channels ➤ reef edges ➤ offshore drop-offs
Where to Stay: Haamene ➤ Taha’a resorts ➤ eastern Taha’a accommodations

Hurepiti Bay Fishing Grounds

Hurepiti Bay lies on the western side of Taha’a and provides access to the surrounding lagoon and outer reef system. The reef edges and channels outside the bay can attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and other pelagic fish where currents move through deeper water. Anglers can work the bay entrance and nearby reef passes before heading offshore into deeper blue-water fishing grounds. Its position also provides access to the productive waters between Taha’a and Raiatea.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ reef passes ➤ current seams ➤ deep Pacific water
Where to Stay: Hurepiti ➤ Tapuamu ➤ western Taha’a resorts and guesthouses

Best Deep Sea Fishing in Huahine (French Polynesia)

Fare Fishing Grounds

Fare is the main town and maritime center of Huahine, providing access to the island’s lagoon, reef passes, and surrounding Pacific waters. The outer reef and nearby channels can create current-driven feeding areas where tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and billfish may gather. Anglers can troll along reef edges and deeper drop-offs before heading offshore into deeper blue water. Fare’s location makes it a practical base for both shorter fishing trips and longer offshore excursions around Huahine.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Reef passes ➤ outer reef drop-offs ➤ current lines ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Fare ➤ Huahine resorts ➤ waterfront hotels

Avea Bay Fishing Grounds

Avea Bay is a sheltered bay on the southwestern side of Huahine, surrounded by reef, lagoon waters, and mountainous coastline. Fishing beyond the bay provides access to reef edges and deeper channels where currents can attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and other pelagic species. Anglers can work the bay entrance before moving toward the outer reef and open Pacific for deeper-water trolling. The area’s sheltered setting also provides a convenient starting point for fishing trips when offshore conditions are favorable.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ lagoon channels ➤ outer reef edges ➤ offshore drop-offs
Where to Stay: Avea Bay ➤ Fare ➤ southern Huahine resorts

Maroe Bay Fishing Grounds

Maroe Bay is located on the eastern side of Huahine and opens toward the island’s lagoon and outer reef waters. The bay’s channels, reef edges, and deeper offshore contours can attract pelagic fish moving with currents and seasonal baitfish concentrations. Anglers may target yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, blue marlin, and skipjack tuna while transitioning from protected bay waters to the open Pacific. Its eastern position provides access to offshore grounds along the exposed side of Huahine.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Bay entrance ➤ reef passes ➤ current seams ➤ deep Pacific water
Where to Stay: Maroe ➤ Fare ➤ eastern Huahine accommodations

Best Deep Sea Fishing in Maupiti (French Polynesia)

Maupiti Lagoon & Passe Fishing Grounds

Maupiti Lagoon and the nearby pass provide access between the island’s protected lagoon and the open Pacific. The pass is influenced by strong tidal currents that can move baitfish and attract tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and other pelagic predators. Anglers can work the pass edges and current seams before moving beyond the reef toward deeper blue-water grounds. The area also provides access to offshore fishing waters surrounding Maupiti when sea conditions permit.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ wahoo ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Passe entrance ➤ tidal currents ➤ outer reef drop-offs ➤ deep blue water
Where to Stay: Maupiti village ➤ lagoon resorts ➤ Maupiti guesthouses

Tereia Beach Offshore Waters Fishing Grounds

Tereia Beach is located on the southwestern side of Maupiti and provides access to lagoon and outer-reef waters leading toward the open Pacific. Offshore areas beyond the beach can feature deeper contours and current lines where pelagic fish move and feed. Anglers may target yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, blue marlin, and skipjack tuna depending on season and ocean conditions. Fishing trips can combine the calmer waters near the island with longer runs toward deeper offshore grounds.

Types of Fish: Yellowfin tuna ➤ mahi-mahi ➤ wahoo ➤ blue marlin ➤ skipjack tuna
Where to Fish: Southwestern reef edges ➤ lagoon channels ➤ current lines ➤ offshore drop-offs
Where to Stay: Tereia ➤ Maupiti village ➤ Maupiti accommodations

Conclusion

The Society Islands offer a diverse range of fishing opportunities in the tropical waters of French Polynesia. From the offshore waters around Tahiti and Moorea to the productive fishing grounds surrounding Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Huahine, anglers have many locations to explore.

Depending on the season, weather, and fishing area, trips may target tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin, giant trevally, and other game fish. Offshore conditions can change quickly, so checking local conditions and choosing an experienced fishing charter can help make your trip safer and more productive.

Whether your goal is big-game fishing, catching your first tuna, or simply spending a day on the open Pacific, exploring the best deep sea fishing spots in the Society Islands can be an unforgettable part of a French Polynesia vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is deep sea fishing good in the Society Islands?

The Society Islands offer access to deep Pacific waters, reefs, channels, and offshore fishing grounds. These environments support a variety of pelagic and reef-associated fish.

2. What fish can you catch deep sea fishing in the Society Islands?

Depending on the island and season, anglers may encounter tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin, giant trevally, and other tropical game fish.

3. Which Society Island is best for deep sea fishing?

Fishing opportunities are available around several islands, including Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Huahine. The most suitable island depends on your target species, season, and charter availability.

4. Can you go deep sea fishing in Bora Bora?

Yes. Bora Bora offers offshore fishing opportunities and local fishing charters. Anglers can target a variety of pelagic and reef species depending on the season and conditions.

5. Can you go deep sea fishing in Tahiti?

Yes. Tahiti provides access to offshore Pacific waters and is one of the main bases for fishing charters in French Polynesia.

6. What is the best time for deep sea fishing in the Society Islands?

Fishing conditions vary throughout the year. The best period depends on the species you want to target, local weather, water conditions, and seasonal fish movements.

7. Can you catch tuna in the Society Islands?

Yes. Tuna are among the offshore species that anglers may encounter around the Society Islands. Species and availability vary according to location and season.

8. Can you catch marlin in French Polynesia?

Marlin can be encountered in the offshore waters of French Polynesia, including around parts of the Society Islands. Success depends on location, season, weather, and ocean conditions.

9. How much does deep sea fishing cost in the Society Islands?

Prices vary depending on the island, charter company, boat, trip duration, number of anglers, and equipment provided. Private charters generally differ in price from shared trips.

10. Do I need a fishing license in French Polynesia?

Fishing activities are subject to local regulations and conservation rules. Requirements can vary depending on the location and type of fishing, so check current regulations with your charter operator or local authorities.

11. Can beginners go deep sea fishing in the Society Islands?

Yes. Many fishing charters accommodate beginners and provide the necessary equipment and instruction. Tell the operator about your experience level when making a reservation.

12. What should I bring on a Society Islands fishing trip?

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, lightweight clothing, comfortable non-slip footwear, and any personal medication. Ask your charter operator which fishing equipment, bait, food, drinks, and safety equipment are included.

13. How long are deep sea fishing trips in the Society Islands?

Trip lengths vary by operator and destination. Half-day and full-day fishing trips are commonly offered, while longer offshore excursions may also be available.

14. Is deep sea fishing available year-round in the Society Islands?

Fishing opportunities are available throughout the year, but species availability and ocean conditions change seasonally. If you are targeting a specific species, check local seasonal information before booking.