Is Fishing Haram in Islam? Understanding the Permissibility and Conditions

Is Fishing Haram in Islam? Clarifying the Islamic Perspective

If you’re passionate about fishing, you might have questions about its permissibility in Islam. This post aims to clarify whether fishing is considered haram, especially in different contexts such as for livelihood, sport, or on specific days like Saturday.

Allah mentions in the Quran:

“The two bodies of water are not alike: one is fresh, palatable, and pleasant to drink and the other is salty and bitter. Yet from both, you eat tender seafood and extract ornaments to wear. And you see the ships plowing through them, so that you may seek His bounty and give thanks.” [Surah Fatir, 12]

This verse indicates that fishing is not haram, as Allah has provided seafood for us to consume.

Is Fishing Haram?

Fishing is not haram in Islam. As long as the intention is to use the fish for eating or selling, it is permissible. Allah states:

“It is lawful for you to hunt and eat seafood, as a provision for you and for travelers. But hunting on land is forbidden to you while on pilgrimage. Be mindful of Allah, to Whom you all will be gathered.” [Surah al-Maa’idah, 5:96]

Is Fishing as a Sport Haram?

Fishing as a sport is halal if the catch is intended for consumption or sale. However, if done purely for fun without any intent to use the fish, it becomes makrooh (disliked). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Do not take any living being as a target.” [Sahih Muslim, 1957]

Islamic scholars agree that fishing solely for leisure, without intending to utilize the catch, is makrooh.

Halal and Haram Fish

Any seafood is generally halal, but scholars exclude certain animals like crocodiles, frogs, and turtles from this ruling. Poisonous fish or those that can cause harm are also not permissible to eat.

Fishing in Sacred Months

Fishing during the sacred months or while fasting is permissible. The sacred months include Rajab, Dhu’l-Qa’dah, Dhu’l-Hijjah, and Muharram. There are no restrictions on fishing during these times.

Catch and Release Fishing

Catch-and-release fishing is not permissible because it may harm or kill the fish. As Muslims, we are instructed not to harm animals unnecessarily.

Conditions for Halal Fishing

  • Fishing for Food: Permissible if the fish is intended for consumption.
  • Fishing for Livelihood: Permissible if the fish is sold to earn a living.

When Does Fishing Become Haram?

Fishing becomes haram if it involves unnecessary pain to the fish or if it is done purely for fun without any intent to utilize the catch.


Related Questions:

  • Is it permissible to fish during Ramadan?
  • What are the rules for hunting animals in Islam?
  • Can you keep a pet fish in Islam?

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This post has been rewritten to align with the content focus of QalkRecite.com, a platform where users are paid for answering Islamic questions.