Montenegro fishing - complete guide to fishing in Montenegro

If you are ready for a new adventure fishing in Montenegro is something you should consider!
When it comes to hidden gems for fishing enthusiasts, Montenegro stands out as a paradise waiting to be explored. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro offers breathtaking coastal landscapes, abundant marine life, and a fishing culture deeply ingrained in its history.
Whether you are an experienced angler or a novice looking to cast your line for the first time, Montenegro has something to offer for everyone. 
In the following paragraphs, we will delve into the world of Montenegro fishing, exploring the reasons why you should give it a try, the best locations for sea and river fishing in Montenegro, and the process of obtaining a fishing permit in this fascinating country.
 

In Montenegro, fishing enthusiasts can engage in various types of fishing, each offering its own unique experience and challenges. Let's explore some of the popular types of fishing you can enjoy in Montenegro.

Sea fishing Montenegro

Sea fishing is one of the most popular types of fishing in Montenegro due to its abundant marine life and stunning coastal landscapes. Anglers can embark on fishing trips in the Adriatic Sea and target various species such as sea bass, mackerel, snapper, bream, and even larger game fish like tuna and swordfish. Fishing can be done from the shore, piers, or by hiring a boat or charter service.
 

Shore fishing in Montenegro

Shore fishing, also known as surfcasting, is a favorite choice for many anglers in Montenegro. This type of fishing involves casting your line from the shoreline, beaches, or rocky areas. The coastline of Montenegro offers numerous fishing spots where you can target species like sea bass, mullet, bream, and sardines. Shore fishing provides a more accessible and budget-friendly option for anglers, allowing them to enjoy the sport without needing a boat.

Big game fishing Montenegro

Engaging the services of a fishing charter is highly recommended for big game fishing in Montenegro. Charter operators offer experienced guides familiar with the local waters, ensuring a higher chance of success in targeting and landing large game fish. In addition, these charters often provide well-equipped boats with specialized fishing gear and tackle suitable for battling powerful species.

Fly fishing Montenegro

Fly fishing in Montenegro is a captivating and rewarding experience for anglers. With its pristine rivers, serene mountain lakes, and abundant fish populations, Montenegro offers a diverse range of opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts. Some popular destinations for fly fishing include Tara River, Lake Skadar, and Moraca River.

Montenegro Sea Fishing - Why Should You Try It?

Montenegro's fishing scene offers an unparalleled experience for fishing enthusiasts. Here are some compelling reasons to try sea fishing in this coastal paradise.

Immerse yourself in nature

Sea fishing in Montenegro allows you to connect with the vastness and beauty of the Adriatic Sea. As you cast your line and wait for a bite, you can take in the stunning coastal landscapes, breathe in the salty sea air, and witness the wonders of marine life. The experience provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the power and tranquility of nature, surrounded by the vastness of the open sea.

Relaxation and serenity

Engaging in sea fishing can be a calming and therapeutic experience. The rhythmic sound of the waves, the gentle rocking of the boat, and the act of focusing on the task at hand can help to clear your mind and provide a much-needed break from the daily hustle and bustle.
Whether you're fishing from a boat or casting your line from the shore, fishing allows you to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and find tranquility on the water.

Cultural connection

Sea fishing is deeply ingrained in the culture of coastal communities worldwide, and Montenegro is no exception. By trying fishing in Montenegro, you can gain insights into the local fishing traditions, techniques, and the close relationship between the people and the sea.
You might have the opportunity to interact with local fishermen, learn about their customs, and even sample traditional seafood dishes that showcase the region's culinary heritage. Engaging in sea fishing can offer a cultural experience beyond just catching fish.
 

New experience

Sea fishing in Montenegro offers a thrilling and novel experience for those who have never tried it before. If you're accustomed to freshwater fishing or have never fished at all, this type of fishing opens up a whole new world of possibilities. It introduces you to a diverse range of fish species that are not commonly found in freshwater environments.  

The equipment and techniques used, can differ from those used in freshwater fishing. As a result, you may need to adapt your fishing gear, learn new casting techniques, and become familiar with saltwater-specific tackle.

It allows you to step outside your comfort zone, learn new skills, and embrace the challenges and rewards of fishing in the open sea. Whether you're a seasoned angler seeking a fresh challenge or a beginner eager to try something new, fishing in Montenegro offers an exciting and unforgettable experience.

Regarding fishing in Montenegro, you can choose between sea fishing and river and lake fishing.

Best locations for sea fishing in Montenegro

If you are a fan of sea fishing, you are in good luck! Montenegro coastal towns provide amazing opportunities, and having a property - a house or apartment in the area makes this activity available all the time.
Montenegro is blessed with several fantastic fishing locations along its coast. Here are some of the top spots you should explore.

Kotor fishing

The Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a prime fishing destination. Its calm waters are ideal for beginners and offer abundant opportunities to catch various fish species, including bream, mullet, and flounder.

Ulcinj fishing

Located in the southernmost part of Montenegro, Ulcinj is renowned for its rich fishing grounds. The area is famous for its big game fishing, attracting anglers seeking a thrilling experience with the chance to reel in large fish like marlins and swordfish.

Fishing in Budva

Even though fishing isn't the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning Budva, Budva offers fantastic fishing opportunities. With its proximity to various underwater reefs and rocky formations, the area attracts a diverse range of fish, including sea bass, bream, and grouper.

Bar Montenegro fishing

Bar, Montenegro's largest coastal town, is a paradise for shore anglers. Its long coastline and numerous piers provide ample space for casting lines and trying your luck at catching species like sea bass, mackerel, and sardines.

Best locations for fly fishing in Montenegro

Montenegro boasts picturesque locations that are ideal for fly fishing. Here are some popular lake and river fishing destinations in Montenegro.

Lake Skadar

Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, is a paradise for anglers. Its clear waters are home to various fish species, including carp, pike, bleak, and various types of trout. Fly fishing from a boat or the lake's shores allows anglers to explore different parts of the lake and enjoy the tranquility of this natural gem.

Tara river

The Tara River, one of Europe's most beautiful rivers, is a prime destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. Its crystal-clear waters flow through the dramatic Tara River Canyon, offering a picturesque setting for casting dry flies and nymphs. Brown trout and grayling are the primary targets in this pristine river.

Moraca river

Flowing through stunning mountainous landscapes, the Moraca River is another excellent fly fishing destination. It is known for its brown trout and grayling populations, providing ample opportunities for anglers to test their skills. The Moraca River offers a mix of challenging stretches and calmer sections, catering to different fishing preferences.
 

To engage in sports or recreational fly fishing and sea fishing in Montenegro, it is necessary to obtain a fishing permit.

Sports and recreational fishing in Montenegro is regulated by the Law on Sea Fisheries and Mariculture and the Rulebook on Sports and Recreational Fishing at Sea. Therefore, every person who engages in sport and recreational fishing must have the appropriate license. The permit can be permanent or temporary. 

A permanent permit is issued only to persons residing in Montenegro and is valid for the calendar year for which it was issued. A temporary license can also be given to persons who are not citizens of Montenegro.
Permits for sport and recreational fishing are issued by clubs that are members of the Association for Sport Fishing in the Sea of Montenegro.

Montenegro fishing license price

The fee for sport and recreational fishing with a permanent and occasional permit is:

Permanent license

• for persons under 18 years of age – €5.00
• for persons older than 18 years, for all fishing tools and equipment, except underwater rifle - €20.00
• for persons older than 18 years for spearfishing and all other fishing tools and equipment - €40.00

In addition to the amount mentioned above, persons older than 18 pay an annual membership fee of €5.00 to the club where they obtained their license.

Temporary license

• for 1 day of fishing – €5.00
• for fishing up to 5 days – €10.00
• for fishing up to 10 days – €15.00
• for fishing up to 30 days – €30.00

The daily amount of catch

The holder of a sport-recreational fishing license can catch up to 3 kg of fish and cephalopods per day, as well as one fish weighing more than 3 kg.

The stated permitted catch does not apply to tuna and swordfish and to catch during sports competitions.