Spearfishing in Lebanon
Including Batroun Coast. On the map.
The vibe
Hunting beneath the surface feels like a dialogue with the sea’s ancient rhythm, as you stalk schools that swirl around rocky outcrops. The prime window runs from late spring to early autumn when fish are abundant and the water is warm enough for extended dives. The activity draws a small, knowledgeable crowd that respects local customs, often arranging trips through word‑of‑mouth networks.
a spearfishing licence
Batroun Coast
North Lebanon
Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
The rocky coastal shelves and ancient Phoenician underwater walls of Batroun offer classic Mediterranean shore-diving and shallow reef hunting. Spearfishermen target white sea bream, dusky grouper, and rabbitfish among the craggy ledges and submerged promontories. The clear blue water and variable bottom topography provide scenic terrain for experienced breath-hold hunters.
Access. Mostly a DIY shore-hunting destination where travelers connect with local spearfishing enthusiasts through regional diving clubs or independent coastal contacts. Specialized spearfishing charters are sparse, so most visiting hunters bring their own gear or source pneumatic/band guns locally via specialized dive contacts in Beirut.
Notes. Lebanese marine regulations require adherence to seasonal closures and bag limits, and explosives or chemical fishing are strictly prohibited. Visitors should verify current Ministry of Agriculture regulations regarding recreational fishing permits.