A GREAT HOBBY SPORT
Cyprus offers a variety of fishing styles and opportunities, and both freshwater and coastal sea fishing are readily available throughout the island. Fishing in Cyprus can be a fun and rewarding experience thanks to its long coastlines, clear Mediterranean waters, diverse marine life and several of its freshwater reservoirs. This hobby sport is open to beginners as well as experienced anglers all over the island, and several fishing enthusiasts enjoy the popular pastime all year round
A FISHING LICENSE
A FISHING LICENSE is required to fish in Cyprus. It can be applied for online at the DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES AND MARINE RESEARCH. Regulations are in place that dictate the size and quantities of caught fish and some protected areas that do not permit fishing also exist. Further information regarding this can be obtained from the DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES AND MARINE RESEARCH. As well as renting and selling fishing equipment, local tackle shops and most fishing shelters also act as a good source of information and friendly advice. Some also offer guided fishing tours and daily boat hire.
AN ABUNDANCE OF FISH
Cyprus has over 20 reservoirs open to anglers for freshwater fishing. Most are stocked with an impressive variety of fish. These include trout, largemouth bass, carp, pikeperch, silver bream, carp, grey mullet, bass, catfish and roach. The coastal areas are just as abundant offering sea bream, sea bass, mullet, snapper, amberjack, tuna, octopus and squid.
GENERAL FISHING ADVICE
Pelagic species such as tuna and bonita are more common in late spring to early autumn. Bottom-dwelling fish such as grouper and dentex can be caught year-round in rocky areas. While the Mediterranean isn’t strongly tidal, dawn and dusk are generally productive times for many species, plus calmer seas in the early morning. For shore fishing, a light to medium rod approximately 2 to 4 metres with a range of 15 to 40 grams in weight and a small spinning reel works for smaller shore species. Booking a local guide or charter operator can greatly improve success and safety. Boat trips charters often provide necessary fishing gear. Tackle shops, fisheries offices, and fishing clubs can offer spot-specific tips, rentals, and advice on local fishing rules.
Practical steps to get started
Step 1: Decide on the mode of fishing. These often include shore, boat charter, or freshwater.
Step 2: Check licensing requirements for the intended fishing area.
Step 3: Contact a local licensed charter operator or tackle shop for up-to-date rules and the best spots.
Step 4: Bring appropriate gear or rent on-site and a basic tackle setup suitable for Mediterranean fish species. Be prepared to dispose of line and hooks properly, avoid protected areas, and follow any applicable catch-and-release practices.
COMMON FISHING OPTIONS
SEA FISHING
Coastal and offshore sea fishing: Common spots include rocky shores and fishing piers along the Cypriot coastline. These include Ayia Napa, Protaras, Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos in particular, but other places like the village of Zygi, which is famous for its fish restaurants, are also popular. Expect species such as white mullet, sea bream, and goatfish near rocks.
Surf fishing: Best in the early morning or late evenings, this form of fishing is avialable from both beaches and rocky ledges. This form of fishing is geared toward catching small to medium fish, as larger specimens can be elusive.
Boat charter fishing: A popular option for sport and food fishing. Depth varies; some charters go to offshore banks for pelagics; others stay closer to reefs.
Night fishing: In some spots, local anglers fish at night for species attracted to lights or to avoid the heat.
Trolling or bottom fishing trips can target species like:
- Bluetip tuna, bonito, albacore (seasonal)
- Amberjack, grouper, dentex
- Barracuda, swordfish (seasonal in deeper waters)
- Common sea bream, parrotfish, and snapper on bottom rigs
- Seasonal squid (inshore and around piers)
Permits: A standard local fishing license is often required, but some exemptions or day passes are available. Rules, however, vary by vessel and location.
Size limits and quotas: Current regulations limit fish sizes, impose bag limits, and protect certain fish species. Some coastal zones and marine protected areas have restrictions on fishing gear, locations, and times. All of these use local signage.
Size limits and quotas: Current regulations limit fish sizes, impose bag limits, and protect certain fish species. Some coastal zones and marine protected areas have restrictions on fishing gear, locations, and times. All of these use local signage.
FRESHWATER FISHING
Reservoir Fishing: Cyprus has several reservoirs and rivers that offer barbel, carp, bream, and occasionally catfish.
Licensing and rules: A fishing license for freshwater fishing is required, and rules can vary and are dependent on different angling clubs. Local tackle shops or tourist offices supply information regarding the correct licensing authority.
POPULAR FISHING STORES
Super Action Sports Centre Deryneia
Tel: 23 825 180
Ck Fishmania Xylofagou, Larnaca
Tel: 99 674 619
KN Fishing Stores Nicosia
Tel: 22 041 744
Ninos Sports Limassol
Tel: 25 372 667
Fish hunter Paphos
Tel: 26 930 088
Blue Adventure Polis Chrysochous
Tel: 99 699 089
APPLYING FOR A FISHING LICENSE
All individuals that do not possess a valid fishing license are not allowed to engage in any fishing activity on the island. A FISHING LICENSE can be applied for online and all applicants will receive an sms and an email confirmation after their submission. All applications are then processed within two working days. All licences expire on December 31st of the year in which the licence is issued.
For further information
Tel: 22 807 818
Tel: 22 807 829
Email: licenses@dfmr.moa.gov.cy
A FISHING PROGRAM
A fishing training programme is being launched in the east of the island, offering a specialised theoretical and practical knowledge course for local fishermen on the island. The programme is also aimed at holders of professional fishing licences A and B, and also for the re-issue of coastal vessel skipper certificates.
The project is organised within the framework of the Local Development Strategy implementation for the Fisheries Areas of the Districts of Larnaca and Famagusta.
Amongst other things, the training sessions will include two modules that will include a basic safety refresher course and a medical first aid course. The training programme will accept a maximum of 24 trainees and a minimum of 10.
Development Company of Larnaca & Famagusta
Tel: 24 815 280
Email: info@anetel.com
