Just as it holds true with respect to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Tenerife, fishing and deep sea fishing are highly rewarding activities in Gran Canaria. The climate and the richness of marine life are the main closers for people in doubt whether to resort to such pastimes or not. Marlins and swordfish are the usual big catches of a fishing trip, but the fishing of tuna fish and sharks is not unheard of in Gran Canaria.
The waters around Mogan and La Aldea de San Nicolas are said to be the most favorable to fishing. However, regardless of the fishing site, tourists should keep in mind they need to acquire a fishing license in order to be able to indulge in this activity in the event they want to go fishing by themselves. On the other hand, the services offered by the specialized centers which offer fishing trips include the implicit acquirement of a permit, which is a further argument for resorting to such centers.
La Consejeria de Agricultura, Ganaderia, Pesca y Medio Ambiente del Gobierno de Canarias is the governmental authority in charge with dealing with aspects related to fishing, sports and leisure fishing included. This authority is the one which issues the above mentioned permits.
The Tamabada Nature Park is one of the most impressive nature spots in Gran Canaria, filling an area of more than 7,538 square meters.
The Barranco Oscuro Nature Reserve stretches in the Doramas Rural Park in west Gran Canaria. The laurel forest is home to some 40 rare species.
The fame of the Maspalomas Sand Dunes Nature Reserve is enhanced due to the fact the site was absorbed in the gay tourism circuit of Gran Canaria.