Olympos, one of Antalya’s hidden paradises, and its neighboring shore Çıralı offer rich fishing opportunities both where the sea meets the river and along the coast. Below you will find practical information for visitors to these areas about fish species, precautions, rod setups, fishing methods, and the best times to fish.
For detailed information about Olympos and everything related to its beaches and sea, check our Olympos Travel Guide or our How Is the Olympos Sea & Beach? article.
Fish Species
- In the Olympos River:
- Mullet
- Eel
- Along the Coast and Shoreline:
- Picarel
- Sea bass
- Pike (European barracuda)
- Occasionally Grouper
This variety is due to the mixing of fresh river water and saltwater, allowing both freshwater and marine species to coexist.
Precautions
- Night Fishing Permits
– Gendarmerie patrols are more frequent; confirm rules for beach access and camping at your guesthouse. - Environment & Conservation
– Discarded lines, monofilament, and trash harm the ecosystem and pose safety risks. - Currents & Depth
– Sudden currents can occur at the river mouth; secure yourself on solid rock or firm ground. - Weather Conditions
– Evenings cool rapidly in the Mediterranean; bring a windproof jacket.
Rod & Gear Recommendations
- Bottom Rig (Float Setup)
- Small float, 5–10g sinker, 0.25–0.30 mm line
- Hook size 2–4
- Spinning Setup
- 2.40–2.70 m medium-light rod
- Reel size 2500–3000
- Lures (shiny holographic or fluorescent pink/green)
- Live Bait
- Shrimp (cured with sugar and marinated in fish oil)
- Bloodworms (live marine worms)
Fishing Methods
- Picarel Fishing with Bottom Rig
- Set float depth 8–12m from shore.
- Cast towards feeding schools after sunset.
- Spinning for Pike & Grouper
- Retrieve shiny lures at varied speeds along the shoreline.
- Best results just after sunset; can continue into night.
- River Mouths & Rocky Areas
- At the river confluence, you can target both freshwater and saltwater species.
- Use bottom rigs around rocks for sea bass and eel.
Best Times
- Evening (18:00–21:00)
- Peak activity for picarel and pike.
- Night (21:00–00:00)
- High chances of pike and sea bass.
- Early Morning (05:00–08:00)
- Productive hours for sea bass and occasionally eel.
With this guide, I wish you a more informed, enjoyable, and successful fishing experience on the shores of Olympos and Çıralı. Tight lines!
