Side-Turkey.

Never held a fishing rod in your life? That is exactly the point. A Side fishing trip is one of the easiest ways to get out onto the Mediterranean, and it is built around people who have never fished before. You step on board, the captain and crew sort out the gear, and within a short while you are sitting in the sun with a line in the water and nothing to prove. Families, couples and solo travellers all end up grinning the same way when the rod finally twitches.

Why a Side Fishing Trip Is Perfect for Beginners

The whole appeal of these trips is that the hard parts are handled for you. Rods, tackle and bait are usually provided on board, so you do not need to buy or carry anything. The crew shows you how to drop a line, where to hold it and what a bite actually feels like — and they are genuinely happy to help, because watching a first-timer catch something is half the fun for them too.

You also do not need to be sporty or strong. Fishing from a boat is mostly sitting, waiting and chatting, with little bursts of excitement in between. That relaxed rhythm is why it works so well for mixed groups, where one person is keen and another just wants to enjoy the sea air.

What You Might Catch (No Promises)

The Mediterranean off Side, Manavgat and the wider Antalya coast holds species such as sea bream, bonito and mackerel, but what actually ends up on your line depends on the season, the spot the captain chooses and plain luck. Some days are busy, some are quiet — that is honest fishing. Treat the catch as a bonus, not a guarantee, and you will have a great day either way.

What a Typical Day on the Water Feels Like

After hotel pick-up, you head to the boat and set off across calm coastal water. The captain motors out to a likely fishing area, gives a quick briefing, and then it is rods down and lines in. There is usually a swimming stop too, so you can cool off in clear Mediterranean water between sessions — a favourite moment for kids and non-fishers alike.

Bring sun cream, a hat, sunglasses and a light layer for the breeze, plus a towel for the swim. Everything else about the day — exact timings, what is served, how long you are out — is confirmed at booking, because it varies by boat and season.

Quick Facts

• Duration: A half day or full day, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Boat trip with captain & crew, fishing rods, tackle and bait (usually provided), swimming stop
• Excludes: Personal items, optional extras — confirmed at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes — relaxed, beginner-friendly, suitable for children with parents
• Best Season: Warm coastal months across the long Antalya summer season
• Difficulty: Easy — no experience or fitness required

Related Excursions

• Tours & excursions in Side
• Things to do in Antalya
• Day trips from Alanya
• Excursions in Kemer
• Activities in Belek
• More travel tips on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any fishing experience?

No. These trips are designed for complete beginners. The captain and crew show you everything and help throughout the day.

Do I have to bring my own rod or bait?

Usually not — rods, tackle and bait are typically provided on board. Exact inclusions are confirmed at booking.

Is it suitable for children and families?

Yes. It is a relaxed, family-friendly day on the water, and the swimming stop keeps younger ones happy too.

Will I definitely catch a fish?

No catch is ever guaranteed. What you reel in depends on the season, the location and luck. Enjoy the trip itself and treat any fish as a bonus.

Is there a swimming stop?

There is often a swimming stop so you can swim in the clear Mediterranean. Bring a towel and swimwear; details are confirmed at booking.

How long does the trip last?

It runs as a half day or full day depending on the boat and season — the exact duration is confirmed at booking.

Where does pick-up happen?

We arrange hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts. The exact time is confirmed at booking.

How do I get the best price?

Book DIRECT with us. There is no travel agency or online platform taking a commission, and we back it with a best-price guarantee.

Ready to cast your first line? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com. As a local operator we cut out agency and OTA commissions and back every booking with our best-price guarantee.