SALTWATER & FRESHWATER FISHING IN CYPRUS
SALTWATER FISHING
NO LICENSE IS REQUIRED FOR SALT WATER STANDARD ROD OR LINE FISHING
Although no license is required for standard rod and line fishing from the shore or on chartered boats, a permit is required specifically for spearfishing. In addition to this, some coastal zones and marine protected areas have restrictions in place on fishing gear, locations, and times, and these are all signposted. These regulations may also limit fish sizes, impose bag limits, and protect certain fish species. Fishing at night or while using scuba gear is also prohibited.
Shore Fishing: The Cyprus coast offers abundant fish stocks. Common species include Sea Bream, Sea Bass, Grouper, Mullet, Goatfish, Snapper, Wrasse, Bonito, Albacore, Parrotfish, Dentex, Barracuda, Swordfish, Amberjack, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Octopus and Squid. Fishing piers along the island’s coastline or shore fishing in the rocky areas, particularly around greater Paphos in the west and the Famagusta coast in the east, are excellent for targeting these fish. The coasts of Larnaca and Limassol, in particular the coast of the village of Zygi, which is famous for its fish restaurants, are also popular. The promenade in Paphos, and a specific bay near the castle at the Paphos harbour, is a good float fishing area. Spinning and jigging work well near reefs, and shrimp bait paste or light lures are advisable for this type of fishing. Fishing in the early mornings and late evenings is considered the best time for maximising fish activity and avoiding high heat during the summer.
Surf Fishing: Best in the early morning or late evenings, this form of fishing is available 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: With peak activity for this type of fishing taking place during spring and summer, this type of fishing allows anglers to target larger fish. Several boat charters are available in all of the popular coastal fishing areas, and they usually include all equipment and any standard local fishing permits that may be required. Most charters stay closer to reefs or go to offshore banks for pelagics. A half-day or full-day boat charter is highly recommended when mainly targeting Albacore Tuna during July, or Mahi-Mahi from September to November.
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)
FRESHWATER FISHING
A LICENSE IS REQUIRED FOR FRESHWATER FISHING
A specialised permit for freshwater fishing in dams or reservoirs is required, and local tackle shops or tourist offices will generally supply information regarding the correct licensing authority. A standard fishing license can be obtained from the DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES AND MARINE RESEARCH, which will also supply a full list of regulations. This fishing license mainly stipulates that only one rod with a single hook is allowed to be used, and that seasonal catch limits apply. The Germasogeia and Kouris Dams in the Limassol district, the Lefkara Dam in the Larnaca district, and the Achna Dam in the Famagusta district are largely considered the best reservoirs for landing Carp and Largemouth Bass.
Fishing in Reservoirs & Dams: Stocked with an impressive variety of fish, Cyprus has over 20 reservoirs and dams, as well as rivers that are open to anglers for freshwater fishing. Fishing in the early mornings and late evenings is considered the best time for maximising fish activity and avoiding high heat during the summer. Both fly and bait fishing are common, and local tackle shops can provide specialised lures like the ‘senko’ for Largemouth Bass. Trout, Barbel, Carp, Catfish, Tilapia, Pikeperch, Bream, Grey Mullet, and Roach are also common.
GENERAL FISHING ADVICE
As a general rule, fishing should take place during the early mornings or late evenings to avoid the heat of the day. This is also when fish are more active. Sandy, shallow beaches where fish are more sparse should be avoided, and fishing should be focused around deep, rocky coastal areas. Light Rock Fishing using small soft plastics or spoons also works well, and using floating bread or shrimp paste on a light float rig is advisable.
A GREAT HOBBY SPORT
Open to beginners and experienced fishing enthusiasts across the island, this popular hobby-sport is a popular pastime that offers a fun and rewarding experience. With this in mind, fishing enthusiasts often enjoy both saltwater and freshwater fishing all year round. A diverse range of marine livestock is available for saltwater across the island’s long, uninterrupted rural coastline, and several dams and reservoirs offer a whole range of freshwater fishing options.
GENERAL FISHING ADVICE
While the Mediterranean isn’t strongly tidal, seas are generally calmer in the mornings. With this in mind, dawn and dusk are generally the more productive times for fishing. Pelagic species such as tuna and bonita are more common in late spring to early autumn, but bottom-dwelling fish, such as grouper and dentex, can be caught year-round in rocky areas. 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 trip charters often provide necessary fishing gear. Tackle shops, fisheries offices, and fishing clubs all 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.
OBTAINING A FISHING LICENSE
A FISHING LICENSE 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 there are restrictions in place for some protected areas that do not permit any fishing altogether. 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. They are often knowledgeable, and they tend to offer friendly fishing advice. Some also offer guided fishing tours and daily boat hire.
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, offering a specialised theoretical and practical knowledge course for local fishermen, is now available on the island. Organised within the framework of the local development strategy implementation for the fisheries areas of Larnaca and Famagusta districts, the scheme is aimed at holders of professional fishing licences A and B, and can also be used for the re-issue of coastal vessel skipper certificates.
Amongst other things, training sessions include two modules. These 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
