Spearfishing in Bahrain
Including Hawar Islands Waters. On the map.
The vibe
The shoreline is a playground for hunters, where the sea teems with fish that dart between coral. The peak season is late spring to early summer, when fish are abundant and water is clear. Spearfishing is usually done by local enthusiasts, but some organized tours exist for visitors, keeping it relatively low-key.
Spearfishing licence required
Hawar Islands Waters
Southern Governorate
Petr Kadlec / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Located off the southeastern coast of Bahrain, the Hawar Islands offer rich, clear waters with rocky ledges and patch reefs that attract local and visiting spearfishers. The marine ecosystem here teems with groupers, bream, and other prized reef fish dwelling around submerged structures. It stands out as one of the few remote island zones in the country providing a true marine hunting experience away from the urban mainland.
Access. Access is primarily via private boat charters or specialized marine excursions arranged from the Bahrain mainland. Travelers must coordinate with local maritime operators who hold permits to navigate and fish these southern border waters.
Notes. Visitors require a valid fishing permit issued by the Directorate of Fisheries in Bahrain. Strict catch limits, size minimums, and protected marine zones apply around the archipelago.