Montenegro is a hidden gem for anglers fishing in Europe. With access to the sapphire waters of the Adriatic Sea, turquoise mountain streams, and several of the deepest river canyons in the world, you’ll enjoy some of the most stunning nature on the planet here. It’s about much more than the view, though! Anglers spend their time in Montenegro fishing for some of Europe’s most iconic game fish, from Trout and Grayling to Tuna and Swordfish. Grab your favorite fishing rod and head here for your next holiday to see what you’ve been missing!

Montenegro Fishing Highlights

The Adriatic Sea

Anglers on the coast of Montenegro have access to a wide variety of game fish in the Adriatic Sea. A quick trip just 7-10 miles from shore will have you bottom fishing for local favorites like Dentex, John Dory, Mackerel, Amberjack, and more (depending on the season). Big game fishermen can catch Bluefin and Albacore Tuna, Swordfish, and Sharks on a full day of deep sea fishing 15-20 miles offshore.

Ocean fishing is open to anglers year-round, and the most productive season runs from April through November. This is when you can expect some of the best weather in the country and a variety of migratory game fish. Shark fishing picks up momentum in June, while Tuna fishing reaches its height in August. Mahi Mahi are most abundant in late summer, as well.

Getting There: There are two main areas on the coast where you’ll find Montenegro charter fishing boats for hire. The most popular fishing spots are on the north coast, around Tivat, Budva, and Herceg Novi. You can catch a domestic or international flight to Tivat and then drive or catch a taxi to any of these nearby port towns.

Ada Bojana on the southern border also has good fishing. You can drive from Podgorica or Tivat and reach Ada Bojana in just a couple of hours.

Lake Skadar

Lake Skadar (Skadarsko Jezero) is one of the most well known fishing holes in the country. The lake covers 379 km and stretches over the border into Albania. Montenegro lays claim to about two-thirds of the lake, and these waters are teeming with Carp, Trout, Eel, and close to 40 other species.

Lake Skadar is open to anglers from June until March. It closes in spring in order to allow local species enough time to spawn. Of the 9 months when fishing is permitted, you can expect favorable weather about ⅓ of the time, since heavy rainfall and strong winds prevail in fall and winter.

Getting There: Lake Skadar is about a half hour drive from the capital city Podgorica.

Tara River

Tara River is the longest river in the country, which springs in the Komovi mountains and flows northeast. Due to its crystal clear waters, it’s also called the “Tear of Europe.” Naturally, this is the perfect place to try some of the fly fishing Montenegro is known for. You can catch Huchen, Grayling, and a variety of Trout in these waters. The best part of the river to fish flows through Durmitor National Park.

Anglers are only permitted to fish in Tara River using artificial baits. Tiny, dry flies are the weapons of choice in these waters, including Quills, Midges, Blue Winged Olives, Grizzly Palmers, and more. Wet flies, nymphs, and streamers also work well.

Getting There: Tara River is easily accessible to visitors in Durmitor National Park. You’ll find accommodations in the town of Zabljak, just outside of the park and a 2 hour drive from Podgorica.

...And More

The Montenegro fishing experience hardly ends there! Many rivers throughout the country are considered some of the leading fly fishing spots in Europe, featuring gin-clear, turquoise waters and feisty game fish. The Lim, Ljuča, Morača, Mrtvica, and Zeta rivers are renowned for their beauty and hefty portions of Grayling, Danube Salmon, Brown Trout, and Marbled Trout. Numerous lakes, pons, brooks, canals, and reservoirs throughout the country host Catfish, Zander (Pike-Perch), Carp, and Rainbow Trout.

Need to Know

Regulations

Charter boats in Montenegro usually provide a fishing license for customers. If you plan to fish on your own, you can buy a license at a local fishing club or tourist center. You do not need a license for saltwater fishing from shore.

Many lakes and rivers have closed seasons when you are not allowed to target game fish. Be sure to ask about local regulations in local tourist offices beforehand, or hire a local guide. Ocean fishing is open year-round.

Budget

Montenegro fishing charters generally range from 350-700 euros, depending on the length of your trip and the quality of the boat.

Four to 6 hour nearshore trips cost around 350 euros, while 6 hour trips that focus on offshore and big game fishing typically cost 400-600 euros. Eight hour trips cost 600 euros on average.

Freshwater fly fishing guides usually offer a price quote once you contact them.

Affordable rates, hard-fighting game fish, and scenic nature—need we say more? Choose Montenegro for your next angling adventure and discover some of the most scenic fishing grounds in Europe!