Side-Turkey.

If you'd rather skip the crowded group boat and have the deck, the skipper and the catch entirely to yourselves, private fishing excursions along the Turkish Riviera are exactly what you're after. Departing from the harbours near Side and Manavgat, our private boats let you set the pace, fish where the bite is best, and turn the morning into your own slow Mediterranean adventure.

What a Private Fishing Excursion Actually Looks Like

You board a small, comfortable wooden gulet or a fast fibreglass boat with just your own group aboard — no strangers, no fixed timetable beyond the tide. The skipper, who has fished these waters his whole life, motors out past the harbour wall to the rocky reefs and drop-offs a few miles offshore where bream, bass, bonito and the occasional amberjack feed. He cuts the engine, baits the lines, and shows even total beginners how to drop, feel the strike and reel in.

Because the boat is yours alone, the day bends to you. Want to anchor in a quiet cove and let the kids swim between casts? Done. Prefer to chase the early bonito run at first light and be back for breakfast? Just say so. The skipper reads the water — wind, current, water temperature — and repositions until the rods bend.

Trolling, Bottom Fishing or Jigging

Most private trips mix techniques. Trolling lures behind the moving boat tempts pelagic fish like bonito and little tunny; bottom fishing over reefs brings up bream and grouper; light jigging is the playful, hands-on option children love. Your skipper carries rods, reels, bait, ice and tackle for all three, so you simply turn up.

When to Go and Who It Suits

Fishing runs spring through late autumn. Late spring and early autumn offer the calmest seas and the liveliest bite, while high summer means glassy dawn waters before the day heats up — which is why most private excursions start early. The trip suits couples wanting privacy, families with curious kids, groups of friends, and serious anglers who want to target a species without a crowd dictating the agenda.

No licence, no experience and no equipment of your own are required. We handle the paperwork, the gear and the local knowledge; you bring sun cream, a hat and a sense of adventure.

What Affects the Cost — and How to Pay Less

Private fishing pricing depends on boat size, trip length, fuel, bait and the season you choose. The single biggest saving is booking direct with us rather than through a hotel desk, agency or online travel platform — every middleman adds a commission that you ultimately pay. Booking direct removes that markup entirely, and our best-price guarantee means you'll never find the same private excursion cheaper elsewhere. Travelling in shoulder season and choosing an early slot also stretches your value further.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approx. 4-6 hours (half day); full-day on request
• Pick-up Time: Early morning, typically 07:00-08:00
• Drop-off Time: Early afternoon, around 13:00-14:00
• Includes: Private boat & skipper, all fishing gear, bait, ice, hotel transfer, swim stops
• Excludes: Personal extras, gratuities, optional onboard catering
• Family Friendly: Yes — ideal for children
• Recommended Age: Suitable for all ages; under-12s with an adult
• Best Season: April to October
• Difficulty Level: Easy — relaxed, no experience needed

Related Excursions

• Excursions in Side
• Excursions in Antalya
• Excursions in Alanya
• Excursions in Kemer
• Excursions in Belek
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel transfer included?

Yes. We arrange complimentary pick-up and drop-off from hotels in Side, Manavgat and the nearby resorts. Just share your hotel name when you book.

Is a private fishing excursion suitable for children?

Absolutely. With your own boat there's no pressure or crowd, the skipper helps kids land their first fish, and we add swim stops so younger ones stay happy all morning.

Can I pay on the day?

Yes. You can settle on the day of the excursion. Booking ahead simply secures your boat and preferred time slot, which fill quickly in peak season.

Do I need to book in advance?

We strongly recommend it. Private boats are limited and the best early-morning slots go first, especially in summer. A quick WhatsApp message reserves your date.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. If the sea is unsafe we'll offer the nearest suitable date or a full refund — you never lose out due to weather.

Do I need a fishing licence or my own equipment?

No. All rods, reels, bait, tackle and necessary permissions are provided. Beginners are welcome and fully guided.

Can we keep and cook the fish we catch?

Yes, your catch is yours to take. Many guests have their hotel or a local restaurant prepare it the same evening.

Where do the boats depart from?

Departures are from the harbours close to Side and Manavgat, a short transfer from most coastal hotels.

Ready to set sail? Book your private fishing excursion direct with the local Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. You'll get instant confirmation, honest local advice and our best-price guarantee — with no agency commission added. Message us today and pick your morning on the water.