Fishing in Cyprus

Cyprus offers two quite different angling settings: freshwater reservoirs inland and Mediterranean shore or boat fishing around the coast.

Freshwater fishing in the reservoirs

The archived guide describes coarse fishing at reservoirs including Evretou, Mavrokolymbos, Asprokremmos, Kouris, Achna and Kalavasos. Carp featured prominently in the old account, alongside other introduced freshwater species, but water levels and permitted fishing areas can change substantially between seasons.

A reservoir that appeared in a historical guide may be closed, restricted or difficult to reach today. Check the current rules for the particular dam, obtain any required permit and confirm which species, tackle, seasons and catch limits apply before setting out.

Shore and boat fishing

Sea fishing ranges from simple shore angling to organised trips farther offshore. Harbour walls, rocky ground and open beaches present different conditions, while a boat trip adds weather, navigation and operator-safety considerations.

Choose a legal, safe position away from swimmers and working harbour traffic. For a boat outing, verify the operator, vessel safety equipment, passenger limits and the plan for changing weather rather than relying on an old advertisement or price.

What to take

Tell someone where you are going when fishing a quiet reservoir or remote stretch of coast. Avoid steep, unstable banks and never enter the water to recover lost tackle when conditions are unsafe.

• A valid permit where required and a copy of the current local fishing rules.
• Sun protection, drinking water, sturdy footwear and a charged telephone.
• Tackle suited to the location, plus a landing net and unhooking tools for careful release.
• A rubbish bag for line, hooks, bait packaging and anything else brought to the water.

Protecting fish and habitat

The earlier site encouraged anglers to photograph and return freshwater fish. Whether releasing or retaining a catch, handle it in accordance with current rules, minimise time out of the water and avoid leaving line or hooks that can injure birds and other wildlife.

Mediterranean habitats are easily damaged. Respect protected areas, do not anchor or trample sensitive seabed, and report pollution or illegal fishing through the appropriate current authority.