The Cocos (Keeling) Islands, an Australian external territory in the Indian Ocean, have a small-scale fishing industry primarily focused on subsistence and local consumption rather than commercial export. The surrounding pristine waters are rich in marine biodiversity, with top fish catches including species such as trevally (Caranx spp.), groupers (Epinephelus spp.), snappers (Lutjanus spp.), and the prized coral trout. Traditional fishing methods, including handlines and small boats, have been practiced by the local Cocos Malay community for generations, reflecting a sustainable approach rooted in the islands’ history. While commercial fishing is limited due to the islands’ remote location and small population, recreational fishing and eco-tourism are growing, with the abundant fish stocks and unspoiled coral reefs attracting anglers and visitors from around the world.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.