The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) boasts one of Africa’s richest inland fisheries, thanks to its vast network of rivers and lakes, including the Congo River—the world’s second-largest by discharge. The country’s fishing industry is predominantly artisanal, supporting millions of livelihoods, particularly along the Congo River and in the Great Lakes region. Top fish species caught include tilapia (Oreochromis spp.), catfish (Clarias spp. and Synodontis spp.), Nile perch (Lates niloticus), and various species of cichlids and carp. Historically, fishing in the DRC has been a traditional activity, with indigenous techniques passed down generations, but the sector remains largely underdeveloped due to limited infrastructure, preservation challenges, and political instability. Despite these hurdles, fish remains a crucial protein source for the Congolese population, and the country holds significant potential for expanding both inland and aquaculture fisheries.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Freshwater fishes nei | 265,585 |
| 2 | Largehead hairtail | 2,120 |
| 3 | Croakers, drums nei | 1,945 |
| 4 | Marine fishes nei | 1,705 |
| 5 | Sharks, rays, skates, etc. nei | 705 |
| 6 | Sea catfishes nei | 540 |
| 7 | Threadfins, tasselfishes nei | 455 |
| 8 | Tonguefishes | 420 |
| 9 | Crevalle jack | 375 |
| 10 | Conger eels, etc. nei | 265 |
| 11 | Barracudas nei | 140 |
| 12 | Rays, stingrays, mantas nei | 130 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.