Fishing in Crete isn’t just about catching fish – it’s a way of keeping the local tradition alive. Home to the Minoan civilization and renowned for its architecture, this historic Greek island never ceases to attract people from around the world. But visiting ruins and museums isn’t the only way to learn about Crete. Take a trip with a local fishing guide and learn some of the local knowledge about these waters that’s been passed down for generations.
For those of you who want to take it slow, there are lots of short, inshore trips. These can bring you Mullet, Common Pandora, Saddled Bream, Striped Seabream, and European Seabass. They may not be big – but they’re tasty! If you have more time on your hands and want to spend a whole day fishing, you can go offshore for Tuna, Amberjack, Dentex, and Swordfish.
You can come fishing any time of year, but the best catches usually happen at the beginning of summer. For those of you specifically targeting Amberjack, come from May–June. If you want to see Tuna at the end of your line, you’ll have the best chances from June–August. You’ll usually go trolling, spinning, and bottom fishing on these trips but it doesn’t end there. Fishing from the rocks is popular among locals and they often go spearfishing.
There are great fishing spots around the whole island, but the northern side tends to be popular. You can choose from a variety of guides available year round in Chania, Iraklio, Agios Nicolaos, and Agia Pelagia.
Prepare your bouzouki playlist and get ready for fishing in Crete! This is your chance to experience what being Cretan truly feels like.