Christmas Island, a remote Australian territory in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its exceptional recreational and commercial fishing opportunities, particularly for prized sport fish. The island’s most celebrated catches include giant trevally (GT), bonefish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and sailfish, drawing anglers from around the world. The fishing industry here has historically been small-scale, serving local consumption and modest exports, but has seen growth in eco-tourism and guided sport fishing, especially since the 1990s. The pristine flats and surrounding deep waters provide ideal habitats for these top species, with bonefish and GT being especially sought after for catch-and-release fly fishing. Sustainable practices and conservation efforts are increasingly emphasized to preserve the island’s unique marine biodiversity and maintain its reputation as a world-class fishing destination.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.