Fishing in Cyprus is more than just a leisure activity, it is about a way of life. In fact, there’re many locals who can testify to that. Surrounded by the sea, the island’s population has always relied on fishing, using fish as a food source and as a trade commodity ever since the Bronze Age. Fish was often used as a decorative motif for ancient pottery, mosaics, sculpture, coins and seals.
There’re plenty of small fishing villages along the south coast of Cyprus, still alive today. If you have a conversation with Cypriots, it’s likely that either them or someone they know have plenty of fishing stories to tell.
If you’re new to Cyprus, however, you might be wondering: is it possible to fish in Cyprus? We’ve got you covered — here you will find all the necessary information about the best fishing spots in Cyprus, special terms and regulations and our useful tips.
Types of fishing
Cyprus offers many options — shore and deep water fishing, spearfishing and freshwater angling. Let’s see how they differ.
Shore fishing
Shore angling is perfect as a relaxed leisure activity — it doesn’t require a licence or any special equipment or preparation. All you need is a line/rod and a bait. To find a good spot, you can just walk up to the nearest seafront or pier.
Whilst it’s the easiest and the most cost-effective option, it offers less thrill compared to deep-sea fishing and you are likely to get smaller fish.
Boat angling
Deep-sea fishing, on the other hand, requires special equipment and preparation, however, it’s more rewarding. It offers a truly authentic and immersive experience. You can organise your own trip or opt for a charter with a choice of private or shared charters. Most of them do half-day or full-day trips and provide their own gear and sometimes provide lunch or drinks. The prices vary — €50—€120 per person for a shared charter to €300—€600 for a private one.
Spearfishing
With its picturesque reefs, rocky shores and crystal clear waters, Cyprus is a popular spot for spearfishing. Even though it is quite popular with the locals, spearfishing is heavily regulated.
Freshwater angling
Cyprus has over 20 man-made dams and freshwater reservoirs, perfect for fishing. Conveniently positioned in quiet and scenic areas, they provide privacy, tranquillity and refreshing coolness even on a hot summer day. Quite often, these dams are surrounded by forest and have nature walks and hiking trails nearby. It is home to such freshwater varieties as trout, bass and carp, amongst others.
Fish species you might find in Cyprus
Saltwater: Sea bass, gilt-head bream, grouper, snapper, barracuda, amberjack, blue finned tuna, dorado, mullet, mahi-mahi. Freshwater: Carp, trout, catfish, largemouth bass, roach, perch, tilapia, sturgeon, zander.
Interesting fact: gilt-head bream, locally known as «tsipoura», and sea bass with a colloquial name «lavraki» are the two most popular varieties in Cyprus. They’re delicious, especially when cooked on the grill and are often served at local taverns.
Rules and regulations
Shore and deep-sea recreational angling is allowed in Cyprus without a licence, whilst freshwater fishing and spearfishing require a licence. For spearfishing, only freediving is allowed, whilst angling with scuba gear or at night is illegal. The licence would cost around €30-35 per year.
Spearfishers must carry a floating buoy with a red flag. They must stay at least 100 m. away from organised swimming areas, and 500 m. from marinas and ports. Freshwater angling is allowed only with a licence and is strictly limited to 20 designated dams/reservoirs located around Cyprus. The licence costs around €35 per year for all dams and €17 per year for a single dam of choice.
Applying for a licence in Cyprus
Licence applications could be done online or in person — at the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research (DFMR) offices in major Cyprus cities. You can contact them to arrange an appointment.
Please note: for online applications, CYLogin is required. Document Checklist:
- Your ID or passport
- Application form
- Personal details (your full name, current address, email, contact phone number)
- Vessel Declaration (if applying for a boating licence)
- Guardian consent and guardian ID (for applicants aged 12–18)
Usually, it takes up to 2 working days to process the application and issue a licence.
Top angling spots
Limassol
For shore angling, head to the Old Port/Limassol Marina area or explore some of the Molos Promenade piers. For a truly pristine experience, try Akrotiri Fishing Shelter, offering nice rock and pier spots.
Paphos
Paphos Harbour is the main shore fishing activity hub. Here you also have an option of booking a deep-sea trip, going as far as 5-20 km deep into the sea. For a quiet and scenic experience, explore Latchi Harbour and Pomos Shelter near Polis and Akamas.
Larnaca
Most local fishermen always gather around Larnaca Marina, Port and Finikoudes area.If you want to explore the region, visiting Zygi is a must. This quaint destination has a long history as a fishing village and today hosts its own Fishing Shelter. Known for its rocky coastline, it remains a popular hotspot for locals and visitors alike.
Agia Napa
Agia Napa Harbour is the top spot for both shore and deep-sea fishing.
For a truly unforgettable experience head to Cape Greco, just 6 km away. Its pristine beauty attracts local and international anglers. And its deep waters offer a chance to find not only tuna, amberjack and snapper, but even more rare varieties like mahi-mahi, when in season.
Nicosia
With no direct access to the sea, Nicosia region has some of the nicest freshwater angling spots in Cyprus. Check out Xyliatos reservoir — a quiet scenic spot close to the capital. This freshwater reservoir is a part of Natura 2000 network. It is perfect for largemouth bass and carp. For trout, head to Kalopanayiotis, which has a beautiful picnic spot and cool mountain air in summer. Just 26 km from Nicosia is another beautiful spot — Klirou dam, featured in the Cyprus Bass Fishing Championship in May 2025.
Useful tips
Undoubtedly, Cyprus is one of the top angling destinations — with clear regulations, a plethora of beautiful locations, perfect weather and a variety of fish species:
- The most productive time for angling is early mornings and late evenings.
- Our advice is to always use plenty of sunscreen — Cyprus sun is very strong.
- If you’re new to deep-sea fishing, it is best to use the services of a charter.
- If you feel confident and want to go solo, there’re plenty of places around Cyprus where you can hire gear and equipment.
- Make sure to check the catch size and bag policy on the government website.
If you have already gone fishing in Cyprus and have a fun story to tell, please share it with us in the comments. Or, tell us about your favourite angling spot. And, if you are just planning a fishing getaway, we hope you will enjoy it. As they say here in Cyprus: «Καλή ψαριά!» (Kalí psariá!), meaning «Have a good catch!»
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