Important to know: the status of spearfishing in Egypt in 2026
Many visitors ask about the possibility of spearfishing in the fish-rich waters of the Red Sea. Egyptian marine protection law, however, contains the strictest limits, and every guest of the country must be aware of them.
Strict rules and laws
- Spearfishing with a speargun is strictly prohibited: Bringing spearguns and harpoons into Egypt is forbidden. Breaking this rule is punishable by confiscation, heavy fines and arrest.
- Protection of the coral reefs: The Red Sea is a protected nature reserve; taking fish underwater, whether on scuba or on a breath hold, is illegal.
- The legal alternative — sea fishing: You can book a tour on a specially equipped boat for deep-sea trolling (tuna, barracuda, dorado) — see our private professional fishing trip.
- Freediving without a weapon: Breath-hold dives with underwater photography and video are entirely legal and produce incredible images. Combine them with coral reef snorkelling.
- Do not buy poached fish from beach sellers.
- Coastguard penalties: The marine police patrol the coastal waters regularly in fast boats.
- Protect this unique ecosystem: Enjoy contemplating the underwater world and preserve it for future generations — for example on a scuba diving trip or aboard the Sea Scope semi-submarine.
