LOCaL GAME FISHING

Experience the fascination of fishing in the Indian Ocean using traditional methods and boats such as ngalawas and dhows. You can then grill your catch with us if you wish!

 

LOCAL Fishing Tour

Fishing methods

Catching tropical fish with local tools is an activity that can be enjoyed by anyone wanting to try something different.

Fishing BOAT

This is a traditional fishing boat that is used every day.

Catch of the day

This is the catch of local fishermen.

Catch of the Day

Tourist Catch of the day - local game fishing

A fresh catch from local game fishing.

Women at fishing

African women fishing in shallow water

Spearfishing

Mother and child spearfishing

Deema Basket Trap

An African basket trap in use

What to expexct:

Fishing is one of the most important economic activities in the village of Jambiani. Even today, fishing is carried out using traditional tools such as ngalawa and dhow boats, deema basket traps, fishing lines and uchokoo spears.

On a local game fishing trip, experienced fishermen will take you out to sea, where you can experience Zanzibar’s maritime culture first-hand.

Try your luck at catching squid, barracuda or colourful reef fish. If you wish, you can enjoy the day’s catch at a communal barbecue in the evening.
This tour offers a combination of adventure, craftsmanship, and authentic encounters with the way of life of coastal communities.

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The following experiences are waiting for you during the tour:

Sailing with a local boat (Ngalawa, DHOW)

Depending on the conditions and the tide levels, you can use one or two of the above fishing methods.

The tour is conducted with our guests’ safety and the weather and tide conditions in mind.

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Catching tropical fish using local fishing methods
  • Traditional Deema basket trap
  • Local fishing line
  • Catch squid with an uchokoo spear
Opportunity for snorkelling

This tour is perfect for experiencing the beauty of the sea and creating unforgettable memories.

Traditional fishing methods and techniques

Local fishermen use techniques that have been passed down through the generations. Handline fishing remains the most common method. They use simple lines that are weighted with stones and baited with small fish or pieces of squid. You will learn to interpret water movements, understand wind directions, and identify the best fishing spots using traditional knowledge rather than modern technology.

 

Local fishing knowledge and expertise

The true value of these experiences lies in the knowledge passed on by local fishermen. They will teach you how to identify fish based on bird behaviour, tidal patterns, and subtle changes in water colour. This traditional ecological knowledge has sustained coastal communities for centuries and offers insights into sustainable fishing practices.

 

Cultural significance and local communities

In Zanzibar, fishing is not just an economic activity; it is the cornerstone of coastal culture. Many communities still practise traditional fishing rituals, such as singing while casting nets and praying before setting out to sea. We will hopefully have the opportunity to observe a group of women performing these rituals. These rituals provide local families with an important source of income while preserving their maritime heritage.

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PRICE & DURATION

$40 –
$70 pp

Local Game Fishing — aPPROX. 6h

Included:
Boat fee, snacks, tropical fruits, water and donation to the village community.

Kosten pro Tag:
Tour for 1 person = 70$ 
Tour for 2 people = 50$ per person
Tour for3 people= 45$ per person
Tour for 4+ people= 40$ per person

Max. 8 people