Fishing Regulations

Navigate and fish while staying fully compliant with local laws.

Fishing Licenses and Regulations in Andalusia 2026: A Complete Guide

Angler checking fishing license on the Costa del Sol

Enjoying a day of fishing on the Costa del Sol requires more than just a good rod; having the correct documentation is essential to avoid fines that could ruin your trip.

In Andalusia, the regional government (Junta de Andalucía) regulates recreational sea fishing. If you plan to head out on our fishing boat, you should know there are different license classes:

  • Class 1: Shore fishing (the most common for beaches).
  • Class 2: Boat fishing (required when joining us on a charter).
  • Class 4: Underwater skin-diving fishing.

Note: Fishing licenses issued by other EU countries or Spanish regions are generally valid in Andalusia, provided there is a reciprocal agreement.

RumboMed Team

Prohibited Zones & Reserves in Malaga

Maro Cerro Gordo Natural Reserve
Maro-Cerro Gordo has specific environmental protection restrictions.

Not all of the Malaga coastline is open for free fishing. To protect Mediterranean biodiversity, certain areas are restricted:

Ports and Access Channels

Fishing is strictly prohibited inside ports (such as Puerto Banús or Malaga Harbor) and their entrance channels.

Bather Zones

During the summer season, fishing from the shore is prohibited until the beach hours end or outside designated buoyed areas.

Minimum Sizes and Protected Species

To ensure sustainability, legal minimum sizes apply. For instance, Sea Bass must be at least 25cm and Gilt-head Bream 20cm. Keeping undersized fish can result in heavy penalties.

Permitted Baits

  • Worms (Lugworm, Ragworm, American)
  • Sardines and Squid (Fresh or Frozen)
  • Artificial lures (Soft baits, Jigs, Crankbaits)
  • Bivalve mollusks (Purchased from official markets)

Key Prohibitions

  • Selling your catch (Strictly illegal)
  • Use of toxic substances or explosives
  • Fishing within 100m of other anglers
  • Exceeding the 5kg daily limit per person

Need help with your fishing license?

At RumboMed, we ensure your trip is 100% legal and safe. When you book our boat, we provide guidance on all necessary permits.

Book a Fishing Day