top of page
Search

🎣 Fishing in North Cyprus: A Hidden Gem for Anglers

  • Writer: John Nordmann
    John Nordmann
  • Jul 30
  • 3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Fishing in North Cyprus: A Hidden Gem for Anglers
Fishing in North Cyprus: A Hidden Gem for Anglers

When it comes to outdoor adventures in the Mediterranean, fishing in North Cyprus is often overlooked—but it shouldn't be. With its crystal-clear waters, long stretches of coastline, and year-round fishing opportunities, this peaceful corner of the island offers one of the most authentic and rewarding fishing experiences in Europe.


Whether you're a casual angler, a spearfishing enthusiast, or hoping to hook a trophy tuna on a boat trip, North Cyprus delivers.


🌊 Why Fish in North Cyprus?


North Cyprus is a paradise for anglers who enjoy simplicity, serenity, and great seafood. You’ll find:

  • Pristine waters with low pollution

  • Quiet, uncrowded shorelines

  • Abundant fish species, including some you won’t find elsewhere

  • Affordable fishing charters

  • Year-round fishing in most areas


No mass tourism. No strict bureaucracy. Just the sea, your rod, and the thrill of the catch.


🐟 What Can You Catch?


The waters around North Cyprus are rich with Mediterranean species, both native and invasive.

Most Common Species:

  • Sea Bass (Levrek)

  • Gilt-head Bream (Çupra)

  • Groupers

  • Barracuda

  • Amberjack

  • Dentex

  • Octopus and Squid


Invasive but Delicious:

  • Lionfish – venomous spines, but prized as food

  • Rabbitfish – common near reefs, mild flavor


During deep-sea trips, you might also encounter:

  • Bluefin Tuna (in season)

  • Swordfish


🎣 Types of Fishing


1. Shore Fishing

This is the easiest way to get started. No license required.

Top Spots:

  • Kyrenia Harbour (outside tourist zones)

  • Alagadi Beach (avoid during turtle nesting season)

  • Lapta and Karsiyaka rocks

  • Salamis coastline

  • Golden Beach (Karpaz)


2. Boat Fishing / Charter Trips

Perfect for deeper water species like tuna, amberjack, and large groupers.

Recommended operators:


Charters usually include:

  • Rods and bait

  • Hotel pickup

  • Snacks or lunch

  • Cleaning and filleting your catch


3. Spearfishing

Legal for freedivers (without tanks). No permit needed if not using scuba gear.

Best For: Groupers, lionfish, bream, and octopusNote: Always avoid marine reserves or turtle areas.


4. Night Fishing

A local favorite—especially for squid and predatory fish.

Bring lights, patience, and a calm setting like:

  • Quiet coves

  • Breakwaters

  • Piers near Lapta or Bogaz


🗓️ Best Time to Fish in North Cyprus

Season

What to Expect

Spring (Apr–Jun)

Sea bass, bream, squid, and octopus active near shore

Summer (Jul–Sep)

Prime time for tuna, amberjack, night squid fishing

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Great for groupers and deeper water predators

Winter (Dec–Mar)

Slower season, but shore fishing still possible


🪪 Do You Need a Fishing License?


✅ Shore Fishing:

  • No license needed

  • Just bring your gear and fish respectfully


✅ Boat Fishing:

  • Charter companies cover the permits

  • Private boats may need recreational registration


✅ Spearfishing:

  • Freediving OK without a permit

  • Scuba spearfishing requires official license


🚫 Prohibited Areas:

  • Ports and marinas

  • Marked swimming zones

  • Turtle nesting areas (e.g. Alagadi in summer)


🎒 Gear & Tackle Tips


  • Rods, reels, and tackle are available in shops across Kyrenia, Famagusta, and Lefkoşa

  • Top bait choices: squid strips, fresh shrimp, mackerel, and worms

  • Lures work well for barracuda and amberjack

  • Use lighter tackle for bream and bass off the rocks


🐠 Eco-Friendly Fishing


Please help keep Cyprus’ waters clean and sustainable:

  • Catch and release undersized fish

  • Remove lionfish (they’re invasive!)

  • Never leave lines or plastic behind

  • Respect local wildlife and sea turtles


🍽 Where to Cook Your Catch


Some local restaurants will prepare your fresh catch if you ask in advance. Try:

  • 🐟 Grida Balik Evi – Kyrenia

  • 🦑 The Wild Duck – Lapta

  • 🐠 Balıkçı Deniz – Famagusta


Or grill it yourself with some local olive oil and lemon—you won’t find fresher seafood!


🧭 Combine Fishing with Exploring


Why not turn your fishing trip into a full island experience?

  • Cast your line in the morning, then wander Kyrenia Castle

  • Fish in the Karpaz, then camp under the stars at Golden Beach

  • Dive into history at Salamis after an early morning catch


🎯 Final Thoughts


Fishing in North Cyprus is more than a hobby—it’s a way to connect with nature, unwind, and taste the Mediterranean at its freshest. Whether you're flicking a line from a rocky shore, diving for lionfish, or battling a tuna offshore, you'll discover just how special this island is.


So pack your rod, grab some bait, and head to the sea—your next great fishing story starts here.

 
 
 
bottom of page