Mozambique is the ideal fishing paradise for the passionate fisherman as most of the coastlines and freshwater fisheries are yet to be explored, and therefore still unknown. Saltwater fishing was very popular in the past, especially by South African and Rhodesians, but with the rise of the civil war in 1975 to 1992 sport fishing and holiday making in Mozambique practically seized.
The 2400km plus coastline, stretching from the most southern border of South Africa to the northern border of Tanzania, possesses the most unexplored coastal fishing in the world. Due to civil war period and with only primitive fishing vessels, it is believed that the Mozambique ocean regenerated in abundance and therefore possesses rich and plentiful marine life which is both ideals for the fisherman as well as diving enthusiasts.
Fly-fishing, coastline and deep-sea fishing is becoming more popular amongst tourists, and many services now exist which cater for these tourists in terms of accommodation, restaurants and equipment. Some of the high spots for deep-sea fishing is found at the Inhaca, the Quirimbas Islands, Pemba, Xai Xai, Ponto do Ouro, Nacala, and Bazaruto Archipelago, with the latter being known as one of the best destinations to find the black marlin (especially during the months of October to January). During the months of September to January, the striped and blue marlin are also found in the waters.
The Mozambican coastline indeed is a treasure chest of marine life as dolphins, sea turtles and even the rare whale shark is home to these waters throughout the year.
If deep-sea fishing is not your forte, why not enjoy fly-fishing in the channels between Benguerra and Bazaruto? Several species of world-class rock and surf include couta, springer, the big garfish, king mackerel, yellowfin and kingfish. Even shark species of bull, blackspot, zambezi, silvertip, tiger and blacktip is found offshore, and fisherman will not only enjoy the fishing but can take in the beauty of the surroundings as well.
Even shore-based anglers have found a treasure chest of fish varieties and quantities in the Mozambican waters. Sandbanks and channel edges have provided plenty of fishing spots and some anglers even question the need of taking crafts into the waters for fishing.
The government is slowly but surely improving the infrastructure, especially for roads, in the country in order to attract more tourists. Other strict laws to protect marine life and beaches also exist although locals are often found selling turtle and varieties of seashells that had been harvested from the ocean. Seashells no longer wash up on the shores, and visitors to the country should therefore not purchase these items as it will only fuel harvesting.
There are numerous lodges, hotels, and camps available that caters for a variety of visitors. Visitors can also hire tackle and equipment and most deep-sea fishing boats are equipped with navigation and fish-finding devices; a policy of tag and release is widely encouraged.