Can I fish in the Udawalawe Reservoir?

Recreational or sport fishing is strictly prohibited for tourists within the protected boundaries of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

That reservoir is an ecologically sensitive water source, and it supports the national park’s diverse wildlife populations. Only local communities with specific inland fishing permits, issued by the Sri Lankan government, are legally allowed to fish there using traditional methods. If visitors are caught trying to fish inside the national park, they will face severe fines and immediate expulsion by wildlife rangers.