Zanzibar Fishing

When it comes to trying something a little different in Zanzibar, fishing from Kizimkazi offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and the chance to catch some impressive fish. While this experience isn’t necessarily for everyone—especially if you’re after high-energy or personalized fishing—you’ll find value in the intimacy, scenic views, and local vibe.

We love that the tour offers flexible departure times, small boat sizes, and an approachable crew. It’s a great option for those who want a relaxed, no-fuss morning or afternoon on the water. On the flip side, one common concern is that the fishing activity can feel quite passive, with many guests noting you don’t get much hands-on involvement. This experience suits travelers seeking a laid-back, authentic fishing outing rather than a high-stakes angling adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in experiencing Zanzibar’s waters without the crowds or hefty price tag, and you enjoy the idea of a calm, scenic boat ride with fishing opportunities, this could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with a partner or just want a quiet day out on the water, soaking in the sun and hoping for a big catch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible timings at 6:00 AM or 1:00 PM cater to different schedules.
• Small boats of about 7 meters create an intimate experience, with only two fishermen per vessel.
• Knowledgeable crew provides guidance, fish bait, water, and fruit to keep you refreshed.
• Mostly caught fish include tuna and kingfish; occasional marlin or dorado sightings.
• Cost is around $100 per person, which offers decent value given the duration and inclusions.
• Limited activity involvement—some guests find it monotonous, as rods are set up for you.
• Weather considerations: Sunscreen and a hat are recommended, as there’s no roof on the boat.
• Language diversity: The crew speaks multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Swahili.
• Cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect on Your Zanzibar Fishing Trip

Departure and Timing

You can choose to leave at 6:00 AM or 1:00 PM, depending on whether you prefer catching the sunrise or enjoying a more relaxed afternoon. Both times offer roughly 4 hours of fishing, though the duration can be tailored to your preference. Early mornings might be cooler and less crowded, while afternoons could offer calmer waters or different fishing conditions.

The Boat and Crew

The boats are small, about 7 meters long, designed with no roof so you can freely cast your lines. Each boat hosts only two fishermen, creating an intimate atmosphere—perfect for couples or small groups. The crew, including a captain and an assistant, are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude. They handle all the gear, bait, and navigation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience.

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The Fishing Experience

Guests frequently catch tuna and kingfish, prized by anglers for their fighting spirit and flavor. Occasionally, more elusive species like marlin or dorado surface, adding an element of excitement. However, some guests, like Mathilde, found the experience somewhat dull—”you just sit in the boat, without any activity,” she said, noting that the rods were pre-set up for you, and there was little opportunity to actively fish.

What You’ll Be Doing

Most of the time, you’ll be sitting back, soaking up the sun, and waiting for a tug on your line. Water and fruit are provided, but you’ll need sunscreen and a hat, as there’s no shade on the boat. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness are often highlighted, with guests like Stéfie remarking, “The crew is cool, and we caught a tuna!”

The Value for Money

At $100 per person, the trip offers a decent return—especially with all fishing equipment, bait, water, and fruit included. Some reviews point out that the experience feels a bit overpriced for what it is, especially given the passive nature of fishing here. For example, Mathilde expressed disappointment, citing the lack of activity and communication issues, which impacted her overall enjoyment.

Additional Insights

The tour includes entry fees for the national park (where Kizimkazi is located), so there are no hidden costs once on the water. The crew speaks multiple languages, making communication easy for international travelers.

Authenticity and the Real Experience

Many guests appreciate the chance to spend time on Zanzibar’s waters with local guides who know the best fishing spots. In particular, the knowledgeable crew and friendly atmosphere stand out as highlights. However, some guests, like Mathilde, express disappointment over the lack of active participation and limited communication, which can make the experience feel somewhat passive.

That being said, others have had a fun day, catching sizable fish and enjoying the scenery. The unpredictable weather, described by a traveler as “a lot of sun, rain, and fins,” adds to the adventure, reminding you that fishing trips are often about the experience as much as the catch.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sunscreen and a hat: With no roof, you’ll be exposed to the sun for hours.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Lightweight, quick-drying fabrics work best for boat trips.
• Prepare for passive fishing: If you want to actively fish, clarify with the crew beforehand—many guests found it more sit-and-wait.
• Check the weather forecast: Calm seas make for a more enjoyable ride, and rain can happen unexpectedly.
• Book in advance: Tours operate with flexible timing, but securing your spot ahead of time ensures availability.

The Sum Up: Is This Zanzibar Fishing Tour Worth It?

For travelers craving a relaxed, scenic day out on the water with a good chance of catching tuna or kingfish, this trip delivers on many fronts. Its small boat size and friendly crew create an authentic, intimate atmosphere that’s hard to find on larger commercial trips. The inclusions of gear, bait, fruit, and water add to the value, making it a convenient option for a half-day adventure.

However, if you’re a passionate angler expecting a hands-on, highly active fishing experience, this tour might leave you wanting more. The passive nature, combined with some guests’ frustrations about communication and activity levels, suggests it’s better suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides with a bit of fishing thrown in—rather than dedicated fishing fanatics.

This experience offers a balance of simplicity and opportunity. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Zanzibar’s waters without breaking the bank, and who value good guides and the thrill of possibly landing a sizable fish.

FAQ

What are the departure times?
You can choose to leave at 6:00 AM or 1:00 PM, both offering approximately 4 hours of fishing.

Is the boat covered?
No, the boats do not have roofs, so sunscreen and hats are essential to protect against the sun.

How many people are on each boat?
Each boat accommodates only two fishermen, creating an intimate setting.

Are fishing activities active or passive?
Most guests find the fishing quite passive, as the rods are pre-set up for you, and there’s limited involvement in the actual fishing process.

What fish can I expect to catch?
The most common catches include tuna and kingfish, with occasional sightings of marlin or dorado.

Does the tour include anything extra?
Yes, the price includes fishing gear, bait, water, fruit, and the national park entrance fee.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, light clothing, and possibly some snacks if you want extra refreshments.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for children or non-anglers?
Since the activity is quite passive, it might suit those who prefer relaxing boat rides more than active fishing, but check with the provider for age restrictions or suitability.

This Zanzibar fishing trip balances the thrill of being on the water with the relaxed pace of fishing. Whether you’re after a quiet day in nature or hoping to land a prized catch, it offers a genuine, if straightforward, taste of local life and waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: