Underwater Fishing or Rod Fishing in Greek Islands: Information and Permits

Do you love fishing? Perhaps in the evening at sunset when the beaches empty? Or freediving among the rocky seabeds that surround the beautiful Greek islands? The exact spots where the best catches have been made are, of course, a bit of a secret, just as mushroom hunters will never tell you exactly where they find the best ones, and the same goes for fishermen. Therefore, we'll proceed in broad terms: the Greek islands most suitable for fishing, both with rods and underwater, are mainly in the North Aegean and the Ionian Sea. The Cyclades are less abundant with fish, and in summer, the frequent presence of the Meltemi wind makes fishing more difficult. Below, you'll find some information on the necessary permits and the best Greek islands for both rod and underwater fishing (listed in alphabetical order).

If you are an EU citizen, rod fishing from the shore on Greek islands does not require permits, nor are permits needed for underwater spearfishing while freediving. Of course, the fish caught should not be "excessive" and should not be sold. Sport fishing with the aid of light sources, as well as the fishing of sponges and corals, is prohibited. There are several areas on Greek islands where fishing is forbidden because they are marine parks or replenishment zones: it is advisable to check with the port authorities.

Cefalonia (Ionian Islands)

Cefalonia has a rich sea and relatively little tourism, making it a good place even in high season. Rod fishing is good in ports, on rocks, or on the numerous pebble beaches.

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Kythira (Ionian Islands)

Kythira has a very fish-rich sea and is suitable for rod fishing from the many piers, or underwater fishing, particularly near the numerous islets and outcrops.

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Ereikoussa, Mathraki, Othoni (Ionian Islands)

All three are fish-rich, especially Mathraki. Othoni is also excellent for underwater fishing.

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Fourni, Ikaria, Samos (North Aegean)

The stretch of the Aegean Sea between these islands is the most fish-rich in Greece, especially the Fourni archipelago, where fishing is a centuries-old tradition. The large number of fishing boats present attests to this. Much of the fish sent to Athens or Thessaloniki comes from this stretch of sea and is highly appreciated.

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Paxos, Antipaxos, Corfu, Lefkada (Ionian Islands)

These Ionian islands, both large and small, have coasts well-populated with fish.

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Psara (North Aegean)

This small island has a generous sea, especially rich in lobsters, making it highly appreciated by underwater fishermen.

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Samothrace (North Aegean)

Samothrace is an excellent place for underwater fishing.

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