Traditional fishing dhow, ZanzibarAdventure & Sports
Traditional · with local fishermen

Local Game Fishing

A morning at sea with a small crew of Zanzibari fishermen — out on a wooden dhow, working the inshore reefs with hand-lines and simple traditional gear. Targets are the everyday fish that feed the island: tuna, barracuda, grouper, snapper and queenfish. A real working trip, not a charter — slower, quieter, and far closer to how the coast has fished for centuries.

Duration
Half Day6am – 11am
From
East coastHotel pickup
Group
Up to 4Wooden dhow
Best for
Authentic experienceAll abilities

Target species

  • Tuna and queenfish
  • Barracuda
  • Grouper and snapper
  • Whatever the day brings

Bring

  • Hat & strong sunscreen
  • A light long-sleeve shirt
  • Closed shoes (deck is rough)
  • Cash to tip the crew
$40per personLocal fishing experience per personBook this →All excursions
Hour by hour

A typical day

Minute by minute, what you can expect. Times are a guide — we adapt to weather, tides, and the mood of the day.

06:00
Hotel pickup

Short drive to the dhow launch.

06:30
Push off in the dhow

Wooden boat, lateen sail, no engine. Out with the morning breeze.

07:00
Working the inshore reefs

Hand-line down. The crew shows you how — simple but effective.

09:00
Tea on board

Boil water on a small stove. Sweet chai with the crew.

09:30
Try a second spot

Move along the reef to where the queenfish are running.

10:30
Sail back

With the morning breeze on the beam.

11:00
Drop-off

Back at your hotel.

What's always included

  • Hotel pickup & drop-off
  • Licensed local guide
  • Bottled water all day
  • All park & entry fees
  • Equipment provided

Not included

  • Tips for guides & crew
  • Alcohol (where applicable)
  • Travel insurance
  • Spending money

Booking & payment

  • Book at least 48 hours ahead
  • 20% deposit, balance on the day
  • Free cancellation up to 24h before
  • USD, EUR, GBP, TZS — all accepted

Ready to book Local Game Fishing?

Tell us your dates and we'll come back within 24 hours with available pickup times and a final price — no commitment.

Chat with the team