Fishing Zanzibar and Pemba

[Chris Præstegaard]

Going to Zanzibar or Pemba ? Here is a few tips on traveling and fishing to help you on the way.

I have been living and working on Zanzibar since 2002 so I know most corners of this unique Island.

Zanzibar has changed a lot during the last 3-4 years and many new hotels and various tour operators has sprung up.
For some it can be a bit tricky to come to this Island for the first time.

Stonetown is probably your first encounter with Zanzibar..and this town is not to be missed...There is much to be seen here and the wonderful thing about this very old historic town is that its alive..this is not a museum..people are living there life here and some things hasn't changed much for many years...So go and get lost. !!

Zanzibar is blessed with some of the best beaches in the world...especially the north and the east coast of the Island.
If you are into diving, fishing,snorkelling, windsurfing, para sailing and a bit of night life, you should head north for either Nungwi or Kendwa.
Her you will find the biggest selection of water sport operators, restaurants and bars on the island..However..this is not Ibiza....Thank God for that.!!
A good advise when it comes to all kind of activities..do not get temped by very low prices offered of “beach boys”....Go and book your activity in one of the professional water sport operators..for you own safety !!

The stretch between Nungwi & Kendwa can be dangerous..DO NOT walk between these to places in the night...There has unfortunately been some fatal robbery's here...Take a taxi !!!!

North of Zanzibar you have Pemba Island...This Island is very different from Zanzibar and still kind of untouched.
Only a handful of hotels is to be found on this Island....Zanzibar can be busy and Pemba is just the opposite.
This is the place to go for diving & fishing in world class and to kick back from everything and enjoy the peace and quietness.

FISHING !!!!!
Zanzibar has a handfull of profesionel fishing charters.Most of these companys are in Nungwi and the rest on the east coast of Zanzibar.

Most fishing on Pemba starts from Zanzibar since there isent any based companys on Pemba..yet..however Pemba is moving with new hotels coming up, so I think its only a matter of time.

Fishing rates..Half day trips from 400-700$, Full day 550-1000$ depending on company and type of boat.

Prices are all inclusive and full charter of the whole boat...So are you traveling 3-4 guys or girls together its not that expensive..however if you are alone...its very expensive for most.

Fishing on Zanzibar/Pemba can be good most year around with a good chance of catching Tuna,Kingfish,GTs,Barracuda,Dorado and with chances of Sailfish & Marlin on a good day.

Trolling,jigging,popping you can do it all.

Shorefishing/flyfishing

Zanzibar hasent the best conditions for this..however it is surely possible if you find a quiet corner and go in the early morning or late evening..give it a go !!!

Pemba has much better places for this kind of fishing and especially flyfishing with many areas "untouched" and you will proberbly be the first around with a fly rod...So go and explore this uniqe Island.

Good luck.

This was just a few tips..if anyone wants to know more about these to wonderful Islands..you are welcome to write me.

Chris

[barbelblanker]

Sounds absolutely amazing. Just the name, Zanzibar! Beats Barry Island.