Best Fishing Campgrounds Near Tokyo

Fishing while camping in Japan

Fishing is deeply embedded in Japanese outdoor culture. Many campgrounds in the Tanzawa and Sagami river systems are built alongside stocked trout streams or natural river sections where anglers can fish for ayu (sweetfish), yamame (cherry trout), and iwana (char). The tradition of catching your own fish and grilling it over charcoal at your campsite is one of the quintessential Japanese camping experiences.

For foreign visitors, the biggest adjustment is understanding the permit system. Unlike many Western countries where a single state or national license covers most waters, Japan uses a river-by-river permit system managed by local fishing cooperatives. Our Tanzawa riverside camping guide covers the best river areas in detail.

Fishing permits and licenses

Most natural rivers in Japan require a fishing permit (遊漁券 / yugyoken). These are sold by the local fishing cooperative (漁業協同組合) that manages each river system. The Japan Fisheries Agency oversees the national framework, but permits are purchased locally.

• Day permits — Typically ¥1,000–2,000. Available at convenience stores near the river, fishing tackle shops, and sometimes at the campground reception.
• Season permits — ¥3,000–8,000 depending on the river and fish species. Worth it if you plan multiple trips.
• Managed fishing areas (管理釣り場) — These stocked ponds and streams do NOT require a separate permit. You pay an entrance fee (¥3,000–5,000 for a day) that includes the right to fish. Great for beginners and families.

Fishing without a permit on a managed river is a violation and can result in fines. Always check before casting.

Types of fishing at Kanagawa campgrounds

• Managed trout streams (マス釣り場) — Stocked with rainbow trout (ニジマス). Pay a fee, catch a set number of fish, and grill them at your site. The most beginner-friendly option and very popular with families.
• Natural river fishing — Yamame and iwana in the upper Tanzawa streams. Requires a permit and more skill. The season runs from March to September.
• Ayu fishing — The iconic ayu (sweetfish) season runs June through October. Traditional ayu fishing uses a unique "friend fishing" (友釣り) technique with a live decoy fish. Popular on the Sagami and Nakatsugawa rivers.
• Lake fishing — Lake Sagami and Lake Tanzawa offer bass, trout, and carp fishing with boat rentals available at some lakeside campgrounds.

Best seasons for fishing

• March–May — Trout season opens. Mountain streams are at their best with clear, cold water. Managed fishing areas are less crowded than summer.
• June–August — Ayu season. Peak time for river fishing but also the busiest. Campgrounds along fishing rivers book out on weekends.
• September–October — Late-season trout and the end of ayu. Cooler weather makes for comfortable camping. Many consider this the ideal combination.
• November–February — Most natural rivers close for the season. Some managed fishing areas remain open year-round.

Fishing campgrounds