Malta is often overlooked as a fishing destination, but that's no reason to cross it off your list. In fact, less fishing pressure is exactly why you should cast a line here, since you won't have to compete with other anglers! This island in the Mediterranean has access to some of Europe's most prestigious game fish, along with an assortment of exotic and colorful reef fish you can't catch in other places. Whether you experience the fishing in Malta aboard a common speed boat or a vibrantly painted traditional luzzu, you're in for a treat!
Known For
Deep Sea Fishing
Malta doesn't have access to the widest variety of big game fish in the Mediterranean, but it does play host to a few favorites. Summer months are spent trolling for Albacore, Skipjack, and Bluefin Tuna, along with Mahi Mahi (Lampuki in Maltese) in August. Offshore jigging for Amberjack (Pixxispad) is equally popular around here. These big game trophies are usually biting 10-20 miles offshore, but occasionally make their way closer to the coast. If you're in the market for one of these bad boys, plan on booking a full day trip with a local charter operator who can put you on the hottest fishing spots. Most charter boats provide fishing licenses for their customers, but you'll need to get a special permit if you plan on targeting Bluefin Tuna.
Reef Fishing
Anglers who have spent some time on the Mediterranean before will find reef fishing in Malta refreshing. Sure, you can hook into some Snapper and Grouper while you're here, along with European staples like Dentex and John Dory. However, you're more likely to be taken with scores of other fish biting near the local reefs, including colorful Sea Breams, Cleaver Wrasse (Ruzetta), Rainbow Wrasse (Gharusa), Painted Comber, Pandora (Pagella Hamra), and more. Even with only a few hours to spare, you can dabble in a little reef fishing several miles from shore. These trips are perfect for families traveling with children because the water tends to be calmer and the coast is never far from sight.
Shore Fishing
Shore fishing in Malta is a favorite local pastime. You can hook into a variety of Bream, Wrasse, Mullet, and Parrotfish while casting a line from the beach. Top catches include Saddled Bream (Kahlija), Striped Sea Bream (Mingus), Gilthead Sea Bream (Awrata), Pandora (Pagella), and Mullet.
The rocky coastline stretching from St. Paul's Bay to St. Julian's is prime shore fishing territory. Handline fishing is especially productive on the cliffs surrounding Miġra l-Ferħa. You can also try your luck around various seaside beaches, sheltered bays, and ports. Be sure to ask around ahead of time in case you need to buy a permit to fish in certain areas.
Need to Know
Regulations
A fishing license is required for recreational angling in Malta. Some charter boats have inclusive licenses which cover all passengers on board. If you book a charter, ask the captain about fishing licenses and permits ahead of time.
You may need a permit to fish from shore, depending on where you cast your line. Always talk to local tourist offices and tackle shops to learn more about regulations before fishing on your own.
You are normally welcome to enjoy any fish you catch for dinner, but it is illegal to sell any fish caught while sportfishing for profit. If you do not wish to keep all the fish you catch, it may be donated to a charitable cause.
Bluefin Tuna fishing is mainly limited to catch and release for recreational anglers.
Malta Fishing Techniques
Anglers in Malta typically troll for big game fish between May and December, when Tuna, Swordfish, and Mahi Mahi are in season. Light trolling produces Bonito, Mackerel, Barracuda, Blue Runner, and more. Combining live bait trolling with jigs is an effective way to catch Amberjack, Dentex, Grouper, Pandora, and Scorpionfish.
Handline fishing remains a popular sport fishing technique among locals, and can be used to catch a variety of fish on the reefs or from shore. When bottom fishing in waters around 250 feet deep, you can target Hake, Scabbard, Rockfish, Stone Bass Grouper, and Deep Sea Bream using electric reels.
If casting from shore, try using a light to medium action rod fitted with a medium spinning reel and 10 lb test monofilament line. Paste or live bait such as Rag Worms and Shrimp works well in local waters. Spinning, float fishing, and ledgering are just a few techniques you can use while shore fishing. Fishing on your own? Pay a visit to the Aquatica tackle shop in St. Paul's Bay and stock up on anything you need, from rods and reels to live bait.
Budget
Private fishing charters in Malta range from about 300-1,000 euros, depending on the length of your trip and what type of fishing you plan to do. Reef fishing trips usually last 3-6 hours and cost between 300-500 euros. You can join a shared trip for less than 100 euros per person.
Deep sea fishing trips start at around 450 euros for a half day trip (4-5 hours). Charter operators sometimes categorize and price their trips based on the target species or technique you'll be using. Generally, you can expect to pay between 500-900 euros for an offshore fishing trip that lasts 6-12 hours.
Getting There
You can book a direct flight to Malta from many European cities. Malta International Airport is located in the town of Luqa, just a 15-30 minute drive from some of the area's best known charter boats. Most destinations on Malta and Gozo are easily accessible by car and public transportation.
Whether you're setting sail for the day or casting a line from the beach, good fishing is never far away in Malta!
