Fishing in Lanzarote
A paradise-like place!
Lanzarote, situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, is a true haven for sea fishing, characterized by its clear waters and rich marine life. This makes the island a paradise for fishing enthusiasts.
It is important to take into account the specific recommendations and rules for safe fishing in Lanzarote, considering the terrain, wind, and currents. Some areas have specific fishing regulations or prohibitions.
I myself went to Lanzarote for the first time in 2023;
- 2023 – Lanzarote
Favorite fishing holiday countries for me (besides the Netherlands) are:
Based on this trip, I was able to speak with local fishermen and gather information about the fishing world of the Canary Islands.
Fishing in Lanzarote, everything you need to know
Popular fish species in Lanzarote
Lanzarote has a rich fish population, making it a great destination for any fishing enthusiast. Particularly, sea fishing is extremely popular. You can see this reflected in the fishing shops, which are filled with artificial lures, poppers, and big game fishing gear. Some of the most popular fish species you can catch here in saltwater are:
- Sierra
- Barracuda
- Common Pandora
- Sea Bream
- Sea Bass
- Dentex
- Mackerel
- Combers
- Horse Mackerel
- Saddled Seabream
- Annular Seabream
- Sea Trout
- Tuna
- Tarpon
- Cod
- Sailfish
- Halibut
Practical guide for fishing in Lanzarote
I’ll provide you with all the essential information you need for a successful fishing day in Lanzarote. From licenses and regulations to fishing equipment and necessities.
The fishing techniques and popularity among the local population vary by coastal area, in my opinion, this is the most realistic distribution in popularity.
Lanzarote, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, is a true haven for sea fishing, characterized by its clear waters and rich marine life. This makes the island a paradise for fishing enthusiasts.
Fishing locations in Lanzarote
- Playa Quemada: Here you’ll find sierra and barracuda in the mornings, and later in the day, common pandora, sea bream, and sea bass. The beach also offers beautiful views of Isla de Lobos and Fuerteventura.
- Playa Blanca: A popular fishing spot between sand and rocks, where you can catch barracuda, sierra, pejerrey, mackerel, and comber.
- La Santa: Ideal for early morning fishermen looking for sierra and barracuda.
- El Golfo: Open water that offers spectacular fishing opportunities, but experience is required due to strong currents. You’ll find various fish species here, such as dentex, mackerel, and combers.
- Arrecife: Suitable for kayak fishing for horse mackerel, geep, and amberjack, or from the shore for common pandora, saddled seabream, and annular seabream.
Types of fishing in Lanzarote
- Traditional fishing: Intended for self-consumption, often with simple techniques and small boats.
- Sport fishing: Regulated with various styles and techniques, including competitions and championships.
- Underwater fishing: Swimming or freediving, requires a 2nd category license.
- Kayak fishing: Increasing in popularity, where anglers use kayaks to search for valuable catches such as sea trout, tuna, tarpon, cod, sailfish, mackerel, and halibut.
Best fishing spots and locations in Lanzarote
Lanzarote is full of beautiful fishing spots that will surprise you with their experience. In my opinion, these are the most interesting places to fish in Lanzarote:
- Arrecife
- Puerto del Carmen
- Playa Blanca
- El Golfo
- Playa Quemada
If you go to Lanzarote more often, you will discover places that appeal to you more or less. I have also noticed this with various friends and colleagues; depending on your fishing preferences and enthusiasm, there is a difference in preferred fishing spots.
Sea fishing in Lanzarote
Sea fishing in Lanzarote is a unique experience, thanks to the island’s location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and its crystal-clear waters. These factors make the island a true paradise for sea fishing enthusiasts.
The coast of Lanzarote offers various fishing locations with a rich variety of fish species. Popular spots like Playa Quemada, Playa Blanca, La Santa, El Golfo, and Arrecife attract fishermen looking to catch species such as sierra, barracuda, common pandora, sea bream, sea bass, mackerel, and amberjack.
The experience of sea fishing in Lanzarote varies from traditional fishing to sport fishing, underwater fishing, and kayak fishing. Each offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Lanzarote and catch some of the most sought-after fish species in the Atlantic Ocean. Sea fishing in Lanzarote is not just a sporty activity but also an opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty and adventure that this beautiful location has to offer.
Fishing license in Lanzarote
To obtain a fishing license in Lanzarote, valid for three years, there are two options: online or in person.
Online process: This can be done through the Online Platform of the Canary Islands Government via the following link for Fishing Licenses. You can obtain the required license without visiting any office personally. After all necessary checks, you will receive a notification that you can view in the ‘My Profile’ section on the Canary Islands Government website.
In-person: You can apply for your fishing license in person by visiting the Information and Citizen Service Office at:
Avenida Fred Olsen, s/n, Arrecife.
Please note that this license does not exempt you from following the regulations for each type of fishing and fishing spot. For fishing in Lanzarote with a boat (even in inland waters), you also need authorization from the General Fisheries Directorate of the Canary Islands Government.
3 golden tips for a successful fishing day in Lanzarote
As an experienced fisherman who has been to Lanzarote, I’m happy to share some useful fishing tips and techniques that have greatly helped me and will help you make your fishing day a success.
- Talk to the local population and fishing shops, the people in Lanzarote are very helpful.
- Definitely go boat fishing when you’re in Lanzarote, this type of fishing is unique.
- Don’t fish in one zone for one week, explore the waters and get to know the area. Success can vary depending on the fishing spot and the day.
The ideal season for fishing in Lanzarote
Lanzarote offers great fishing opportunities throughout the year, thanks to its warm climate, but each season has its own highlights. Discover which fish species you can best catch during the different seasons.
Spring (March, April, May)
- Bigeye tuna is easy to catch in these months, especially by trolling.
- Jigging is popular in rocky areas for species like dentex.
Summer (June, July, August)
- High season for Big Game fishing, with species like blue and white marlin, dorado, and various tropical tunas.
- Light trolling is effective for bonito, red snapper, wahoo, and skipjack.
Autumn (September, October, November)
- Continuation of the Big Game season, ideal for catching blue and white marlin.
- Jigging remains popular for amberjack and barracuda.
Winter (December, January, February)
- The bluefin tuna visits the island, a top target for fishermen. Bottom fishing and trolling are less productive, but kayak fishing offers opportunities for horse mackerel, geep, and amberjack.
Fishing in Lanzarote with the whole family
Lanzarote is an ideal destination for families looking to fish together, with opportunities in every season. Even in winter, the island offers exciting fishing adventures, especially for sea fishing such as mackerel, bluefin tuna, and sea bream. These fish remain active during the winter months, although they may be deeper. By using the right fishing methods and bait, one can be successful in the winter season.
As a versatile destination, Lanzarote offers unique fishing experiences for anglers of all ages, all year round. A family fishing trip to Lanzarote promises to create unforgettable memories. So grab your fishing rods, get ready for fun, and experience fantastic moments with your family in beautiful Lanzarote.
Fishing equipment and necessities for fishing in Lanzarote
To fully enjoy your fishing adventure in Lanzarote, it’s important to bring the right fishing equipment and necessities. Here’s a list of essential items:
For us, two fishing setups are the best for fishing in Lanzarote. One is the equipment for medium/light sea fishing.
And as a second setup, a big game rod could be good, with this you can tackle the biggest powerhouses of the sea.
Please note that a specific rod choice for a specific fish species is always what we recommend. For specialist advice on this, feel free to contact BIVoutdoor.
General tips:
- Visiting local harbours may lead to discounts on fishing charters.
- Shore fishing with small lures or bait such as mussels and squid can be successful for smaller fish species.
- Exploring different locations across the island by car expands fishing opportunities.
Fishing holiday in Lanzarote
If you truly want to enjoy an unforgettable fishing experience in Lanzarote, why not plan a fishing holiday? Here are some great options for a waterfront stay:
Top 5 cottages by the water in Lanzarote
- Villa Donato
- Casa el Charcon Bajo
- Nomad House Haria
- Casa Montana Clara
- Casa Dasha
With this comprehensive guide to fishing in Lanzarote, you have everything you need to have a great fishing experience in this beautiful country. Lanzarote offers an unforgettable time for every angler.
Enjoy your fishing holiday in Lanzarote and create memories that will last a lifetime!
The top 5 sport fish species in Lanzarote are:
- Tuna
- Marlin
- Sea bass
- Squid
- Shark
You can apply for your fishing license in person by visiting the Office for Information and Citizen Services at Avenida Fred Olsen, s/n, in Arrecife.