Fishing in Tokyo: Top Spots, Shops & Charters for Expats and Visitors

Japan is not only surrounded by water but also boasts abundant rivers, lakes, and marshes inland. With high water quality and rich aquatic life, it’s no surprise that Japan consumes one of the largest amounts of fish globally. Fishing is deeply woven into everyday life here, and sport fishing in Tokyo is very popular—wherever there is water, you’ll find people casting lines and reeling in their catch. For those eager to join in, here are the top fishing spots and shops in the Tokyo area.

If you are interested in exploring beyond fishing, consider visiting the beautiful Tokyo Islands for a refreshing getaway. Check out our guide Tokyo Islands Uncovered: Top Travel Tips & Sightseeing Gems for the best spots. For a peaceful resort experience, don't miss A Serene Getaway: Tokyo's Charming Resort Destinations. Also, Enoshima Island makes a perfect day trip from Tokyo.

Tokyo Fishing Permits & Seasons

In Japan, you don’t need a fishing license for saltwater or freshwater fishing unless you engage in commercial fishing. However, most lakes require a fishing permit, which can be purchased at local tackle shops or nearby convenience stores.

Freshwater sport fishing in Tokyo mainly takes place in stocked ponds, where you can expect to catch species like bass, bluegill, carp, and trout. Native trout species include the Yamame trout and Iwana trout (Japanese char), found in mountain streams and rivers.

The fishing season in Tokyo generally runs from the first weekend in March to the end of September. Since catch restrictions vary by location, it’s best to check with local tackle shops for details.

Popular Fishing Locations in Tokyo

Tokyo Bay

Fishing in Tokyo Bay has a history spanning over 300 years, thanks to its abundant marine life. Common catches include Japanese sea perch, sea bream, and flounder, with other species like albacore tuna, skipjack tuna, yellowtail tuna, sea bass, mahi mahi, mackerel, octopus, squid, and horse mackerel also frequent. Autumn is the prime season as many species migrate from northern waters. Shore fishing is good, but joining a charter boat offers the best experience.

Kanagawa and Yokohama

Just south of Tokyo, Kanagawa (capital Yokohama) offers diverse fishing options from sea fishing to stocked lakes and ponds. Forest Springs Kaisei , a fishing park in southwestern Kanagawa, has three stocked ponds with over 10 trout species and several salmon species, making it ideal even for beginners.

Chiba

Ohara Port, on the Pacific side of the Boso Peninsula in Chiba, is a well-known fishing town. It produces about 60% of Japan’s Japanese spiny lobster (ise-ebi). Accessible by a 1.5-hour train ride from Tokyo Station, it is a traditional fishing port serving both commercial and recreational fishing. Numerous charter boats depart from here for rewarding sea fishing trips.

Fishing Laws and Guidelines in Japan

Japan has fishing laws based on the Fisheries Act. It is important to be aware of these laws because violations can result in imprisonment of up to three years or fines up to 30 million yen.

For example, it is prohibited for the general public to catch certain specified aquatic species such as abalone, sea cucumbers, and glass eels (shirasu unagi). Additionally, catching species that are protected under fishing rights, like turban shells (sazae) and wakame seaweed, is considered an infringement of fishing rights. There are also restrictions on the fishing gear and methods that general anglers are allowed to use.

For detailed and information on these laws and regulations, please refer to the following websites. Since rules may change, please confirm the most current information yourself before fishing.

・Fishing and Angling in Tokyo

・What are the Fishing Laws in Japan?

In addition to following the legal regulations, please observe the following general manners:

・Take all trash such as empty cans, leftover food, fishing hooks, and lines home with you.

・Release small fish back into the sea.

・Pay attention to weather forecasts and avoid fishing during bad weather.

・Do not disturb fishermen who are working, and avoid swimming or fishing near fishing nets or aquaculture facilities.

By respecting these laws and manners, you can enjoy fishing safely and responsibly in Japan.

Tokyo Fishing Shops

If you join a fishing charter you will be able to rent the equipment and tackle required for your fishing expedition. If you would like to purchase your own equipment then there are several specialized Tokyo fishing shop options.

Joshuya

Japan’s largest fishing tackle chain with many locations nationwide.

http://www.johshuya.co.jp/shop/en/

Sansui

A pro-fishing tackle shop with an online store.

https://sansui1902.jp/

Sabalo

Specializes in saltwater game fishing gear.

http://sabalo.co.jp/

Fishing Charters in Tokyo

Fishing charters are popular among locals and visitors alike. Many offer English-speaking captains and include all necessary gear. Some options include:

Knot Enough

Specializes in lure casting for seabass (Japanese sea perch) in Tokyo Bay. The website is available in English and provides information for anglers interested in fishing trips.

http://www.fishtokyo.com/english/

Trout & King

Offers 4- and 6-hour fishing trips targeting seabass. The website includes English information and support for foreign anglers.

https://www.troutandking.com/eng/seabass.html

Nagisa Maru

Fishing charter based in Fujisawa, Kanagawa. The website provides information in English about their fishing services.

http://www.nagisamaru.jp/eng.htm

Tokyo Fishing Clubs

Joining a fishing club is a great way to enjoy the sport regularly. Several clubs have English-speaking members:

Meetup

Lists various fishing groups.

https://www.meetup.com/topics/fishing/jp/

Tokyo Fly Fishing and Country Club

An English-speaking club with extensive fly fishing info.

https://tokyoflyfishing.com/en/

 

Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to know about sport fishing in Tokyo, it’s time to cast your line and enjoy the adventure—catches aren’t guaranteed every time, but the experience certainly is!