Many people first heard of Madagascar from the famous animated series, with its tropical plants and vast wilderness forming their initial impression. Some even say Madagascar is the most beautiful place on Earth. Located off the southeastern coast of Africa, Madagascar is the world’s fourth-largest island, separated from the African continent by the Mozambique Channel, like a pendant on a blue necklace. And in this beautiful country lies one of the world’s most stunning diving spots—Nosy Be.
Nosy Be might not be a very famous place, but it has earned the title of “Top 10 Islands” in global travel awards and is hailed as one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world. How did it stand out among vacation paradises like Réunion, Mauritius, and Comoros?
Nosy Be is a volcanic island located on the northwest coast of Madagascar, near the northeastern end of the Mozambique Channel, and is part of the Ankazobe Province. It is the largest coastal island in Madagascar and one of the country’s most renowned tourist destinations.
Nosy Be means “Big Island” in Malagasy. Covering an area of 294 square kilometers, it stretches 26 kilometers north to south and 20 kilometers east to west, situated about 15 kilometers from the nearest coastline. The island features a tropical rainforest climate with average temperatures ranging from 18-35°C and significant rainfall throughout the year, creating a warm and humid environment. Known for its abundant spices like vanilla and ylang-ylang, Nosy Be is also called the “Island of Spices.” It boasts some of the world’s most beautiful and least crowded beaches, where tranquility reigns with only the gentle sound of the waves. The azure sky meets the white, soft sand, making it feel like a paradise summer.
Nosy Be has earned numerous accolades, including the 2013 World’s Best Island Destination, Africa’s Best Resort Island, one of the World’s Best Fishing Spots recommended by the International Game Fish Association, and one of the World’s Best Diving Destinations. These honors are well-deserved, with 345 days of sunshine per year and sea temperatures consistently above 25°C. These factors make Nosy Be one of the best diving islands globally. Its warm, unpolluted waters create ideal diving conditions, maintaining a pristine, natural state that’s like a natural aquarium.
Nosy Be is also home to a rich variety of shellfish and coral, with abundant fish resources. You can see some of the world’s largest fish, including whales and sharks. For the adventurous, it’s even possible to swim alongside whale sharks.
Fishing in Nosy Be
Nosy Be Island enjoys a warm and humid climate, making it an ideal destination for fishing year-round. The surrounding waters of Nosy Be are vast, with varying fish distributions depending on the area, offering different levels of fishing challenges.
While tropical cyclones and heavy rains occasionally occur from mid-January to early March, the rest of the year is perfect for fishing, making Nosy Be a true fishing paradise.
- Spring (April to June): With moderate sea temperatures, various fish species become active during this season. Common catches include jacks and yellowfin tuna, which swim energetically just beneath the surface, waiting to challenge anglers.
- Summer (July to September): As the water warms, larger fish like swordfish and marlin begin to appear. This season offers the best opportunity to target big game fish, providing experienced anglers the perfect stage to show off their skills.
- Autumn (October to December): During the breeding and migration season, the variety of fish in Nosy Be’s waters increases. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, autumn ensures plentiful catches for everyone.
- Winter (January to March): While winter weather can be unpredictable, occasional clear days offer excellent fishing opportunities. It’s essential to monitor weather forecasts closely during this period and choose the right time to head out to sea.
Although fishing is possible year-round in Nosy Be, the weather and choice of location are crucial. While January and February pose a risk of cyclones, the island is generally shielded by the Ankarana mountain range, and fishing activities can still proceed with minimal disruptions. However, the northernmost areas (north of Cape Saint Sebastian) and the western regions of Nosy Be (such as Le Liven) are more exposed to winds and trade winds (known locally as Varatraza), making them less ideal for fishing.
When selecting a fishing spot, it’s essential to consider the weather conditions and your skill level. Beginners can start by fishing in the shallow coastal areas, which are rich in fish and relatively safe. Experienced anglers may opt to venture into deeper waters or fish near coral reefs, aiming for larger catches and a more challenging experience. Always check the weather forecast before setting out to avoid rough conditions, as high winds and waves can create safety risks. Additionally, keep an eye on tides and currents to determine the best time for your fishing trip.
The northwest coast of Madagascar, known as the “Virgin Islands Coast,” is a perfect blend of adventure and untouched natural beauty, attracting explorers and fishing enthusiasts alike. This region boasts numerous islands, such as Nosy Manonaka, Nosy Valiha, Befotaka Bay, and Nosy Hara. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse marine life, making it a world-famous fishing destination. The jagged coastline, coral reefs, shallow waters, and bays offer a variety of fishing environments and endless fun for anglers. However, fishing activities here are limited from late June to early September due to the impact of the Varatraza trade winds.
The Mitsio Islands and surrounding waters are another sought-after fishing paradise, with their mysterious, beautiful natural scenery and abundant marine ecosystem. Shallow banks, reef plateaus, and underwater canyons create excellent fishing conditions. The area is well-sheltered from winds, offering a unique coastline and rich fish resources, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts.
Although the central area of Nosy Be may not yield as many catches, the southern region of Radama offers excellent shelter from the wind, ensuring year-round fishing. This area is known for its abundant fish species, including yellowfin tuna, sailfish, mackerel, grouper, and the massive black marlin. The dramatic underwater terrain provides ideal fishing grounds, giving anglers a chance to catch rare species.
In Nosy Be, you not only enjoy the thrill of fishing but also immerse yourself in breathtaking natural scenery, experiencing the grandeur and tranquility of the surrounding environment.
For beginners, Nosy Be Island is an excellent place to start. It offers the perfect environment to practice fundamental fishing techniques, such as casting, reeling, and using bait. Novices also have the opportunity to learn from experienced captains and crew members, gaining insights into the habits and characteristics of different fish species. While enjoying the thrill of fishing, beginners can gradually improve their skills and knowledge.
For seasoned anglers, Nosy Be presents a stage for self-challenge and the pursuit of mastery. They can venture into deep-sea waters or fish near coral reefs, targeting larger species and aiming for bigger catches. Here, experienced anglers can fully utilize their advanced fishing techniques, savoring the excitement of battling with nature. Additionally, they have the chance to meet like-minded individuals, exchange experiences, and form lasting friendships.
