Cyprus fishing – the complete guide for tourists and anglers

Fishing in Cyprus is not just a hobby – it’s a real adventure that combines the thrill of the catch, the romance of the sea, and the beauty of the Mediterranean.

The island offers a wide range of fishing experiences: from comfortable yacht trips for sea fishing to exciting bass fishing in freshwater reservoirs.

Sea Fishing or Freshwater Fishing in Cyprus – What to Choose?

Sea fishing in Cyprus is perfect for families. While some enjoy fishing, others can swim, sunbathe, or even taste freshly cooked fish right on board. It’s the ideal balance of adventure and relaxation.

Freshwater bass fishing is for the active and adventurous. You’ll explore reservoirs, move along rocky shores, and chase the legendary bass. This type of fishing is dynamic, sporty, and definitely not for the faint-hearted.

Sea Fishing in Cyprus – Main Features

Sea fishing in Cyprus gives you the chance to catch tuna, marlin, dorado (mahi-mahi), grouper, amberjack, barracuda, sharks, and even swordfish. Most tourists choose yacht fishing because it’s safe, comfortable, and fully organized by the captain and crew.

An extra deckhand can make your trip even better:

• Prepares bait and tackle
• Cleans and fillets fish
• Cooks fresh meals (like tuna sashimi)
• Helps with children on board

This makes sea fishing in Cyprus not only exciting but also stress-free.

Fishing Programs in Cyprus

Depending on the season and time of day, you can choose:

• Morning trolling (4–6 hours): Tuna, marlin, barracuda, dorado.
• Deep-sea fishing (from 9 AM): Grouper, sharks, hake, dorado – up to 900m depth.
• Night fishing: Squid and herring, including giant deep-water squid weighing up to 5 kg.
• Vertical fishing: Perfect for beginners, catching red snapper (hanos) and pandora (lithrini).
• Combined program: Morning trolling + afternoon deep-sea fishing.
• Extras: Jigging, swimming, and cooking your fresh catch on board.

Shore Fishing in Cyprus

Shore fishing requires patience and skill. The best spots are Paphos and Limassol with rocky bottoms and reefs. Larnaca, with its sandy seabed, offers fewer trophy fish, but piers are great for beginners.

Bass Fishing in Cyprus

Bass fishing in Cyprus is a true sport. Bass are clever and strong, making it a thrilling challenge. Beginners should go with a local guide to increase their chances of success.

Reservoirs across the island are rich with bass, and the excitement is comparable to professional tournaments in the USA, where bass fishing is a multimillion-dollar sport.

Tuna Fishing in Cyprus – The Highlight

Tuna is the ultimate prize for anyone fishing in Cyprus. From June to September, the waters fill with albacore (5–12 kg) and bluefin tuna (50–80 kg).

Freshly caught tuna is often prepared immediately as sashimi or grilled steaks – turning your fishing trip into a gourmet experience.

Deep Sea Fishing in Cyprus

This is a calmer but highly rewarding type of fishing. Using electric reels, lines are dropped to 600–900 meters to catch grouper, hake, sharks, and red snapper. Even first-time anglers often return with an impressive catch.

Fishing Seasons in Cyprus

• Tuna: June – September
• Dorado (Mahi-mahi): September – October
• Deep-sea fishing: Year-round
• Squid and octopus: November – January
• Jigging, amberjack, barracuda: Year-round
• Vertical fishing (lithrini, hanos): Year-round

Find your perfect fishing yacht – submit a request

Popular Fish Species in Cyprus

Sea fishing: Tuna, dorado, grouper, amberjack, barracuda, marlin, sharks, squid.

Freshwater fishing: Bass – the iconic fish for sport anglers.

Why is Fishing in Cyprus so Popular?

Crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and stunning views

Fishing opportunities all year round

Variety of programs: family trips, trophy hunts, night fishing

A mix of leisure, sport, and adventure

Freshly cooked catch straight on board

Fishing in Cyprus is the best way to combine relaxation, adrenaline, and gourmet pleasures in one unforgettable trip.

FAQ

When is the best season for fishing in Cyprus?
The best season for tuna fishing in Cyprus is from June to September. Dorado (mahi-mahi) is active in September–October, while deep sea fishing and shore fishing are available all year round.

What fish can you catch in Cyprus?
Popular catches include tuna, dorado, marlin, grouper, amberjack, barracuda, squid, and bass in freshwater reservoirs.

Do I need a license for fishing in Cyprus?
For sea fishing trips with a charter boat, no license is required – the captain covers it. However, for freshwater bass fishing in Cyprus, you need a special permit for reservoirs.

Is fishing in Cyprus good for families and beginners?
Yes! Family fishing trips in Cyprus are popular. Onboard assistants prepare gear, cook fresh fish, and help with kids. Beginners can also try vertical fishing or shore fishing.

Where are the best fishing spots in Cyprus?
Top destinations include Paphos (reefs and rocky bottoms), Limassol (yacht fishing), and Larnaca (great for beginners). For freshwater fishing, reservoirs across the island are ideal for bass.

How much does a fishing trip in Cyprus cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of trip. Private yacht charters for sea fishing range from €600 to €3,000, depending on the duration and size of the boat.

Can I combine fishing with other activities in Cyprus?
Absolutely! Many Cyprus fishing tours include swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, and even cooking your fresh catch right on board.