Malta sits where different parts of the Mediterranean meet. This creates rich fishing grounds full of various fish species. The islands offer fishing spots for everyone from beginners to experts. Having a boat lets you reach the best areas away from shore. Many visitors consider Malta boat rental options just to access these prime fishing locations. With a boat, you can move between spots as conditions change throughout the day.
South of Malta
The deep waters south of Malta attract serious fishing enthusiasts. Here, the sea floor drops quickly to great depths. These waters host tuna, swordfish, and dolphinfish (known locally as lampuki). The best spots lie about 10-15 kilometers offshore. Tuna fishing peaks from May to July, while lampuki season runs from August to December. These areas require larger, stable boats and proper equipment. The rewards can be impressive, with catches weighing many kilograms.
Comino Channel
The channel between Malta and Comino offers excellent fishing in more protected waters. This area provides good catches without needing to venture far offshore. Common catches include sea bream, dentex, and amberjack. The underwater structure creates perfect hiding spots for fish. The channel works well for fishing year-round, though spring and fall often produce the best results. Boat hire in Malta typically includes options suitable for this area, even for those with limited boating experience.
St. Paul’s Bay
St. Paul’s Bay on Malta’s northern coast offers sheltered waters perfect for fishing with children. The bay contains plenty of smaller fish like bogue, pandora, and wrasse. These fish bite readily, making the experience fun for beginners. The best spots lie near rocky outcrops visible from the surface. Morning and evening hours typically produce more action. The bay provides safe anchorage even when winds pick up elsewhere around the islands.
Gozo’s Western Coast
The rugged western coast of Gozo combines stunning scenery with excellent fishing. The deep water close to shore attracts larger fish species. Grouper, dentex, and amberjack hunt along the underwater cliffs. Trolling (fishing while moving slowly) works well here. The area between Dwejra and Marsalforn holds some of the best spots. This coast can experience rough conditions, so check weather forecasts carefully before heading out.
Filfla Area
Southwest of Malta lies tiny Filfla island, surrounded by protected waters where fishing is allowed but landing on the island is not. This remote area hosts abundant marine life including larger predatory fish. Common catches include dentex, grouper, and when in season, lampuki. The area requires good weather conditions due to its exposed position. The journey itself (about 5 kilometers from the nearest harbor) makes for a beautiful boating experience on calm days.
Seasonal Fish to Target
Malta’s waters host different fish throughout the year. Spring brings good catches of bream, grouper, and dentex. Summer sees the arrival of tuna, followed by amberjack. Fall marks lampuki (dolphinfish) season, eagerly awaited by local fishermen. Winter offers fewer options but can produce quality catches of grouper and bream. Understanding these patterns helps you plan your fishing trip for the species you most want to catch.
