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Adventure Collective Journal

Fly Fish Tenerife: Ten Minutes of Pure Atlantic Whip and Lift

Fly Fish Tenerife: Ten Minutes of Pure Atlantic Whip and Lift

Short, fast, and salt-sprayed: Tenerife’s most fun ten minutes on the water.

Costa Adeje, Canary Islands
By Eric Crews
water activities, boat chartersSeptembersummer

The rope hums before you feel it. A salt-sweet wind slips across the marina, teasing the triangular inflatable at your feet—a bright, winged creature itching to leap. You straddle the Fly Fish, knuckles finding the rough grip of the tow lines. The skipper raises a hand. The Atlantic, impatient, dare-you blue, taps at the hull. Then the throttle punches and the ocean starts talking in spray.

Trail Wisdom

Book the earliest slot

Morning sessions usually mean calmer seas and lighter trade winds, translating to smoother, more controllable rides.

Hold right, look ahead

Keep arms slightly bent, feet braced, and eyes forward; your body follows your gaze and absorbs bumps better when you’re not staring at your hands.

Secure or skip sunglasses

Use a retainer strap or leave them ashore—splash and speed can grab loose gear without warning.

Reef-safe sunscreen only

Apply 20–30 minutes before your slot; you’ll protect your skin and help keep Tenerife’s marine environment healthier.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • The sunset vantage along Playa del Duque’s promenade for post-ride people-watching and golden light
  • The natural-rock tidal shelves near La Caleta on calm days—great for a quiet cool-down dip

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins (often farther offshore), Loggerhead sea turtles (occasional nearshore sightings)

Conservation Note

Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid dropping plastics or gear overboard—these beaches and bays support marine life that’s increasingly pressured by tourism.

Tenerife’s south coast blossomed from fishing hamlets into a water-sports hub in the late 20th century, while the island’s volcanic roots remain evident from black-lava headlands to Teide’s silhouette inland.

Seasonal Guide

spring

Best for: Milder temperatures, Morning smooth water

Challenges: Afternoon wind picks up, Occasional spring swell

April–May brings pleasant air, water around 19–20°C, and mellower crowds—great for first-timers if you ride early.

summer

Best for: Warmest water, Consistent sunshine

Challenges: Strong UV exposure, Busier beaches and bookings

June–August is prime time with 22–24°C water and bluebird days; secure reservations and hydrate well.

fall

Best for: Warm seas linger, Fewer crowds

Challenges: Intermittent Atlantic swell, Variable wind later in the day

September–November offers a sweet spot—summer-warm water and more space on the water, especially midweek.

winter

Best for: Clear days between fronts, Affordable shoulder-season travel

Challenges: Cooler water (18–20°C), More wind and chop

December–March stays rideable most days; bring an extra layer and aim for mid-morning sessions between breezes.

Photographer's Notes

If allowed, mount a waterproof action cam on a chest or mouth mount for stable POV; set to wide FOV and burst or 60+ fps for crisp spray. Ask a friend to shoot from shore with a fast shutter (1/1000+) and continuous AF; keep horizons level and time frames for when the inflatable crests a wave. Golden hour softens glare and enriches water color; a polarizer helps cut reflections from the Atlantic.

What to Bring

Rash guard (UPF 50+)Essential

Sun protection that won’t wash off at speed and helps prevent board-rub on the inflatable.

Light wetsuit top (2 mm)

Takes the edge off cooler water and wind chill during winter or breezier days.

Sunglasses with retainer strap

Glare is real on the south coast—use a strap or leave them onshore to avoid losing them.

Close-fitting water shoes

Improve footing on the inflatable and protect feet during boat entry and exit.

Common Questions

Do I need to be able to swim?

A life jacket is mandatory and provided, but you should be comfortable in deep water and able to re-board the inflatable with assistance.

How long is the Fly Fish ride?

Expect about ten minutes of on-water action, plus time for check-in, fitting, and the boat ride—plan 30–45 minutes total.

What’s the minimum age?

The minimum age is 10; minors must ride with a responsible adult and follow the crew’s instructions.

Will I fall off?

Probably—and it’s part of the fun. The skipper adjusts speed and angles to match group comfort, and the crew will guide you back aboard quickly and safely.

Are there weight or health restrictions?

Riders with back or neck issues, recent surgeries, or who are pregnant should skip this activity. Specific weight policies vary by operator—confirm at booking.

Can I bring a camera?

Only if it’s waterproof and leashed; some operators restrict handheld devices for safety. Ask the crew—many offer photos or video for purchase.

What to Pack

Reef-safe sunscreen (protects skin and marine life); Rash guard or light wetsuit top (wind and abrasion protection); Sunglasses with strap (glare control without losing them); Dry bag with towel and water (quick warm-up and hydration post-ride).

Did You Know

Mount Teide, rising to 3,715 meters, is the highest peak in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Quick Travel Tips

Aim for morning sessions for calmer water; Confirm camera policy with the operator before bringing gear; Bring a small cash tip for crew—cards aren’t always accepted; Parking near popular beaches is limited—arrive early or walk the promenade.

Local Flavor

Refuel with papas arrugadas and red or green mojo at a beachside chiringuito, then stroll to La Caleta for fresh-caught fish and a sunset cerveza. Try a barraquito (layered coffee with condensed milk and cinnamon) for a sweet Canarian finish.

Logistics Snapshot

Closest airport: Tenerife South (TFS). Typical departure area: south-coast beaches near Costa Adeje. Drive time from TFS: ~20 minutes. Cell service: generally strong along the coast. Permits: none required; life jacket provided. Minimum age: 10. Book ahead in peak summer.

Sustainability Note

Choose reef-safe sunscreen, keep gear secured, and pack out all trash. Respect marine life and give space to any wildlife spotted near the boat.

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