UAE Fishing Seasons: What to Catch and When

Fishing conditions in UAE waters change dramatically throughout the year. January can offer fast action for kingfish and queenfish, while the intense heat of July often pushes fish into deeper, cooler water.

Understanding the seasons helps you choose the right target species, fishing time and tackle. Here is a practical season-by-season guide for Dubai and the wider UAE coastline.

Winter: November to March — Peak Fishing Season

Winter is generally the best fishing season in the UAE. As the water cools, many gamefish become more active and move closer to shore, creating excellent opportunities for both shore and boat anglers.

Main targets: Kingfish, queenfish, trevally, hamour (grouper), cobia and barracuda

Best time to fish: Dawn and the final two hours before sunset, particularly around tide changes

Recommended lures:

• Metal jigs weighing 20–60 g
• Poppers and pencil baits for surface-feeding fish
• Soft-plastic baits rigged on jig heads for hamour around rocks and underwater structures
• Minnow lures for barracuda and queenfish

Spring: April and May

Fishing can remain productive during spring, although rising temperatures make early-morning sessions more comfortable and effective.

Some species may enter breeding periods at this time. Seasonal fishing restrictions may also apply, so always check the latest regulations issued by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the relevant emirate authority before keeping your catch.

Main targets: Trevally, queenfish, barracuda and emperor

Best time to fish: Early morning, before the temperature rises

Recommended lures:

• Minnow lures
• Medium-weight metal jigs
• Spoons
• Small soft-plastic baits

Summer: June to September — Challenging Season

During summer, sea temperatures rise considerably. Many gamefish move into deeper water or become less active during daylight hours.

Dubai’s recreational fishing arrangements and permitted fishing periods may also change during the summer. Check the Dubai Municipality portal and current local regulations before planning a fishing trip.

Main targets: Barracuda and smaller reef species

Best time to fish: Before sunrise or after sunset

If you fish during summer, carry plenty of drinking water, use sun protection and avoid prolonged exposure during the hottest part of the day.

Summer is also an ideal time to:

• Service and clean your reels
• Replace worn braid or fishing line
• Inspect rods and guides for damage
• Restock leaders, hooks and swivels
• Organise tackle boxes
• Prepare your equipment for the winter season

Autumn: October — The Action Returns

October marks the transition into the cooler fishing season. As water temperatures begin to fall, predatory fish become more active, and the first winter species start appearing.

Main targets: Barracuda, early-season kingfish and trevally

Recommended lures:

• Fast-retrieve metal jigs
• Casting spoons
• Minnow lures
• Pencil baits

October is also a good time to respool your reels, replace old leaders and prepare your heavier tackle for the peak winter months.

UAE Fishing Season Quick Reference

Species	Best months	Recommended tackle
Kingfish	November–March	Metal jigs and wire leader
Queenfish	November–March	Poppers, pencil baits and minnows
Trevally	November–April	Poppers, jigs and soft-plastic baits
Hamour (grouper)	November–March	Soft-plastic baits on jig heads, fished near structure
Cobia	November–March	Heavy jigs and large soft-plastic baits
Barracuda	Year-round	Minnows, jigs and wire leader

Fish Responsibly

Help protect UAE marine life and fishing locations by following these basic guidelines:

• Carry a valid recreational fishing licence where required.
• Follow all seasonal fishing bans and minimum-size regulations.
• Release undersized fish carefully and as quickly as possible.
• Many shark species are protected in the UAE. Release any shark you catch safely.
• Never leave fishing line, hooks, lure packaging or other rubbish behind.
• Keep only what you genuinely need.

Get Ready for the Fishing Season

Preparing for your next fishing trip?

Visit Jighead Fishing Tackle Store in Al Hudaiba, Dubai. We are open daily except Wednesday, from 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

WhatsApp: 052 374 2753
Shop online: www.jighead.ae

We deliver fishing tackle across the UAE.

Planning a shore-fishing trip? Read our guide to shore fishing spots in Dubai.

Fishing seasons can vary depending on water temperature, weather and baitfish movement. Regulations are determined by UAE federal and emirate-level authorities and may change. Always check the latest rules before fishing or keeping your catch.