Fishing rules in Cyprus
A short practical guide to behaviour, restrictions and common mistakes. If you are unsure, choose the safe option and check DFMR before fishing, especially from a boat or in protected zones.
Reservoirs and dams
- Reservoirs and dams require a licence.
- Fishing is allowed only from shore.
- Fish during daylight: from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
- No nets, chemicals, lights, hand lines, boats, or floating devices.
Sea from the shore
- A normal rod from shore is usually the no-licence case.
- Some areas are restricted: beaches, protected zones, farms, and shelters.
- Boat fishing has separate DFMR rules, catch records, and vessel conditions.
Everywhere
- If a licence is required, carry it with your ID.
- Respect limits, minimum sizes, and protected species.
- Do not sell recreational catches.
- Leave shores and spots clean.
Protected species and juveniles need careful release
This guide does not present sharks or rays as target species. If this bycatch happens accidentally, the angler's job is to return the animal to the water quickly and safely.
Handling guide- 1.
Sharks and rays are not recreational target species: do not target, retain, land, or keep them.
- 2.
If a shark, ray, or another protected species is caught accidentally, release it safely and as quickly as possible.
- 3.
Release juveniles, undersized fish, and fish you will not keep immediately: wet hands, minimal air time, and no hot rocks.