Fishing Tourism in Akassa Kingdom: A new concept

It was originally adopted in Akassa less than a year ago as a way to provide opportunity to go fishing with local fishermen and share in the culture, tradition and lifestyle at sea. Fish tourism is an increasing development in other countries where fishing was an established tradition.

Fish tourism is part of the wider context of marine ecotourism amongst Akassa communities in the gongola region of the Niger Delta and involves the embarkation of non-crew members on fishing boats for recreational-tourism purposes. Non-crew members are allowed to participate in the fishing activities with crew members.

Fish tourism activities are conducted by local professional fishermen using local wooden or fibre boats  which are less equipped for fishing. A variety of destinations can be reached along the coastline, on/around the islands and deep sea fishing. Non-crew members (tourists) must always return to original port of departure.

Fish tourism provides tourists with the opportunity to go out to sea with real fishermen and to learn what life at sea is really like. Activities include boat excursion (including overnight on board), watching and participating in fishing activities, introduction to the fishing methods and gear, game fishing, , providing information on the marine environment and coastal biodiversity of the local area. Activities can be conducted all year round, day or night, depending on the fishing method and weather conditions.

Additional services can also be provided depending on tourists requests including accomodation, preparation of traditional fish recipes by crew members or in local restaurants.

In other countries which have developed fish tourism it has proven to be an excellent vehicle for eco-awareness and sustainability as well as a new method to regenerate local fishing communities. 

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