When it comes to enjoying the beauty of beaches in Doha, how can we forget to mention the best fishing spots in Doha? Fishing in Doha, Qatar is a hobby and lifeblood for many of the city’s residents. It’s also an industry that brings in about $3 billion per year.
The fishing industry does not have the same restrictions as most other industries, so fish are often caught using practices that are not sustainable or environmentally friendly. But if you are into fishing to have a good time in Doha, we will make sure to offer you details about the best fishing spots in Doha.
Aquatic Life on Doha Beaches
Aquatic life on the Doha beaches is quite exciting for fishing lovers. They can also catch different types of seafood off the beach. However, the catch limit that can be taken varies from up to 45 kg in an hour. But where and how you fish is your decision. According to these guidelines, there are certain spots along Doha beaches that boast better fishing conditions than others.
Best Fishing Spots in Doha
For the best experience with fishing in Doha, you need to know the best fishing spots in Doha. Unfortunately, there are not many beaches with luxurious fishing facilities in Doha. However, you can enjoy the best experience of fishing in Doha. We have compiled some facts about the best fishing spots in Doha for you so that when you plan your trip, you will be aware of the places to check out and get within a short distance of it.
1. Banana Island
Banana Island is one of the most popular fishing spots in Doha. There is a small jetty at the south end of the beach, where you can park your boat and get into the sea. Nearby boats often take anglers for a nominal fee to make sure that their fishing trip does not land on a sharky beach. The island has about a 20 km long coastline and provides privacy for people who want to fish there. The sand dunes are protected by fish that usually coil around from the shore.
Towards the north side, the sea is less tamed with rocky terrain. In this area, it is said that there are good opportunities for big fish to be caught by big boats. The fishing trip should be planned in a way to ensure that your boat will sail to the right spot.
If you want to fish near the shores of Banana Island, you should plan your trip well in advance, as when you get there, they need a couple of hours before they are ready to go out again.
2. Al Aaliya Island
It is one of the popular fishing spots in Doha, a small patch of rock with a sand bottom. The rocky area is just big enough for two fishing boats to tie up at once and fish on the rocks. This area is also known as Al-Reef, and they say that they have some of the best opportunities for fishing in Doha, although it turns out that there are not so many opportunities available.
If you plan to fish near al Aaliya Island, you should be informed about the policy of fishing that applies there. The fishing area spreads over almost 2 KM, and that is enough to offer you an amazing fishing experience if you are into this sport for fun and pleasure during your stay in Doha.
3. Halat Umm al Khayfan
Halat Umm al Khayfan is a popular fishing spot in Doha that gets crowded with anglers on most weekends. The area which can be reached by boat is very small, so they do not have much space to spare on the beach. The best fishing spots in Doha are pretty close to each other, and you should consider whether you have enough time to look at each of them.
This fishing spot is now getting busy with people who enjoy fishing for their hobby or for their salary. Even if this spot does get crowded, it does not dampen your enjoyment or the experience because a lot of people still manage to find good times there.
4. Al Safliya Island
This is one of the best fishing spots in Doha. It is an island that provides a good breeze to fight waves and throw them back into their proper place. The island is very close to the coast, so it might not be the best fishing spot for a long-term trip since you will have to return there when you have finished your trip to other places. However, if you are just there for the weekend, it will be a good fishing experience because there are lots of fish that have been harvested in this area.
If you’re planning on going fishing on Al Safliya Island, make sure you are aware of the restrictions around that area so that your trip does not end up landing on another fishy spot.
5. Doha Main Navigation Channel
Qatar’s navigation channel is a popular fishing spot in Doha. The navigation channel extends far into the sea, and the area that goes up to the coast has great potential for fish. The area has been declared off-limits to most fishing vessels because of the dangers that may occur when you’re not careful.
So, there will be no problem if you want to go out in this area; it will just need permission from your captain so that you can play safe while on an interesting fishing trip. It’s still worth noting that this place is a great place when it comes to having an impressive catch.
6. Corniche Fishing Spot
This is the place where you can go to be able to enjoy fishing in Doha. The place is very wide open, and you should take allowed boats to avoid any inconvenience that may occur if you want a convenient trip. If fishing is not your idea of fun and activity, it’s also a great place for water sports. The only thing that can bother you is that there are more boats than in most other areas, and it will be difficult for you to have quiet time on the beach, but the location makes up for it by allowing you to experience the sights of sea life and home life.
However, the fishing spot is located behind some big hotels, so it might not seem like a convenient place either since the area tends to get crowded on weekends.
7. Ras Al Nasa Fishing Point
This is another popular fishing spot in Doha that offers a great view of the sea. The area is very close to the shore, and you will have to pay a small fee to get there. People who practice fishing in Qatar are allowed to fish at this point, but they do so only between sunrise and sunset.
So, it can be said that if you are just out fishing, be sure to check out this place too because the nature is so familiar and you don’t have to worry about any fishy problems when you are there.
How to Plan your Fishing Trip?
Planning is the key to a successful fishing trip. Make sure you are aware of the area and the opportunities that are available near your planned destination. For example, if you’re planning on fishing on Al Aaliya Island, don’t go there with just a fishing rod in your hand because all you will have is a fun trip back home.
There are some things that you need to know about the place, particularly if this is your first time. For example, some areas are off-limits due to environmental laws that protect natural resources and make sure that there is no damage done to the ecosystem by humans. Here are some essential items that you must have with you on a fishing trip:
- Fishing rod
- Fishing license
- Net
- Snack and drinks for your trip to avoid dehydration
- Sunscreen and sun hats to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun.
- Line and sinkers if you are going to use them or if you have an option to choose between both.
Most of the time, these essential items are also available at the shops near fishing spots. If you are not sure about the shops, make sure to bring these items with you; otherwise, you might end up ruining your trip. It is always to have all these items with you before starting the trip.
Check with Authorities for Fishing Permit
You will have to get a fishing license, and you can apply for the same in the country where you are living. You will also have to check with the authorities there if there are any fishing permits that are required when you’re in Qatar, especially since this is a Muslim country.
The thing is that without the proper documents from authorities, you may get in trouble once you’ve arrived at your destination and started fishing. So, if this is not your first time in Doha, then it’s important that you know about these things so that it doesn’t ruin your trip.
Conclusion
There is a lot that you can do when you visit Doha in Qatar, especially if the purpose of your trip is to enjoy yourself. Fishing is one of them, but there are other activities that you can take part in as well. You can enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches or go snorkeling in the beautiful blue waters.
The best fishing spots in Doha are not too crowded, and it is easy to have a peaceful time at these places, which makes it one of the best options you can have when you want to explore Qatar as a tourist.
There are many local tournaments that are held periodically to keep visitors engaged with all possible fishing opportunities. So if you’re there for some days and if fishing is not your main goal, still make sure that you take part in this local activity because this will be very interesting for you and it will help you enjoy your stay a lot more.