🐟 Fish You Can Find Off the Coast of Montenegro – What Lives in the Adriatic Sea?

Planning a trip to Montenegro and love the sea? Then you’ll be fascinated to learn about the many types of fish that swim in the clear, warm waters along Montenegro’s coastline. The Adriatic Sea is not only beautiful, but also full of marine life — from popular catches to hidden underwater wonders. This article gives you a clear and friendly overview of the most common fish you can see, catch, or taste near the Montenegrin coast.

🌊 Why Is Fishing and Snorkeling in Montenegro So Special?

The Adriatic waters near Montenegro are known for being clean, warm, and rich in marine life. The coastline has a variety of landscapes — from rocky cliffs and hidden bays to sandy beaches and deep underwater slopes. These features create ideal habitats for fish and other sea creatures.

Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, a beginner angler, or just love fresh seafood, Montenegro offers you many ways to enjoy the sea — from shore fishing and boat trips to diving or simply watching marine life near the beach.

🐠 Most Common Fish Near the Montenegrin Coast

1. Gilt-head Bream (Dorada – Sparus aurata)

One of the most delicious and well-known fish in the Adriatic. Easily recognized by the golden stripe between its eyes. Gilt-head bream live in shallow waters and love sandy or rocky sea bottoms. In local restaurants, you’ll often find this fish grilled with lemon and Mediterranean herbs.

Fun fact: Can be caught from the shore, especially during early mornings or sunset.

2. Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

A silver-bodied predator with soft, tasty meat. Sea bass prefer waters near river mouths or areas with more movement and current. You’ll find wild sea bass along the coast, but they’re also farmed locally.

Good to know: Wild-caught sea bass is more flavorful and prized in restaurants.

3. Dentex (Dentex dentex)

A powerful predator with strong jaws and sharp teeth. Dentex are large, fast, and smart — which makes them a prized catch among serious fishermen. Their meat is firm and rich in taste, perfect for grilling or baking.

4. Scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa)

Brightly colored, usually red or orange, this fish hides in rocks and coral. But beware — its spines are venomous! Divers need to be careful not to touch it. Despite the danger, scorpionfish is delicious, especially in fish stews.

Safety tip: Always wear gloves while diving near rocky areas.

5. Garfish (Belone belone)

This long, thin fish has a beak-like snout and moves quickly through the water. It often jumps out of the water when startled. Garfish form small schools and swim close to the surface.

6. Mullet (Mugil spp.)

A common and hardy fish found near harbors, river mouths, and shallow bays. Mullets are surface feeders and can live in both salty and brackish water. Their meat is soft, and they are often grilled whole.

7. Barracuda (Sphyraena sphyraena)

Sleek, fast, and armed with sharp teeth, this predator is a rare but thrilling sight near the coast. Barracudas usually swim in deeper water but can approach the shore when hunting smaller fish.

8. Horse Mackerel (Trachurus trachurus)

Found in large schools near the surface, this fast-swimming fish is a favorite among amateur fishers. You’ll often catch them from piers or small boats using light tackle.

9. Anchovies and Sardines

These small, silver fish move in giant schools near the surface. You might spot them shimmering under the sun. Anchovies and sardines are not only an essential part of the local diet but also feed larger fish and seabirds.

🦑 Other Sea Creatures in the Adriatic

Montenegro’s waters are full of more than just fish. Keep an eye out for:

• Squid – often seen at night near lights and piers.
• Octopus – hiding in rock crevices and seabeds.
• Crabs and sea urchins – common in rocky coastal zones.
• Mussels and oysters – especially in the Bay of Kotor, where shellfish farms are popular.

🎣 Fishing in Montenegro: What You Need to Know

• Recreational fishing is allowed, but you may need a fishing license, especially for boat fishing or spearfishing.
• Daily and weekly permits are available for tourists.
• There are seasonal restrictions for certain fish species, so always check before fishing.
• Harmful methods like explosives, poison, or electric devices are strictly prohibited.

🤿 Where to See Marine Life While Snorkeling?

If you’re not into fishing but love the sea, snorkeling in Montenegro is a great way to discover underwater life. Best places include:

• Beaches in Budva and Petrovac – plenty of fish hiding near rocks.
• Sveti Nikola Island (Školj) – excellent for snorkeling just a short boat ride from Budva.
• Bay of Kotor – calm waters and great for beginners.
• Floating docks and piers – fish often gather under them for shade and food.

📌 Final Thoughts: Montenegro’s Underwater World Is Worth Exploring

The coastline of Montenegro isn’t just beautiful — it’s alive. From delicious fish like sea bass and dorada to exotic sightings of barracuda and octopus, the Adriatic Sea offers a truly unforgettable experience for sea lovers. Whether you’re fishing, diving, or just swimming near the shore, you’ll have the chance to get close to marine life in a peaceful, scenic setting.