Top Lesotho Fish Catches

Lesotho, a landlocked country in southern Africa, has a relatively small but growing fishing industry primarily centered around its abundant freshwater resources, including the Lesotho Highlands Water Project reservoirs and rivers such as the Senqu (Orange) River. The top fish catches in Lesotho are dominated by species such as rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and brown trout (Salmo trutta), both introduced during the 20th century to support recreational angling and local consumption. While traditional fishing in Lesotho historically focused on indigenous species like yellowfish (Labeobarbus spp.), the establishment of trout farming in the highland dams has become increasingly important, both for local livelihoods and as an export product to neighboring South Africa. The fishing industry remains relatively small-scale and artisanal, but aquaculture and sport fishing tourism are growing sectors, contributing to rural development and economic diversification in the country.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.