Top Zambia Fish Catches

Zambia’s fishing industry is a vital part of the nation’s economy and food security, centered around its extensive river systems and lakes, notably the Zambezi River, Lake Kariba, and Lake Bangweulu. The country’s top fish catches include species such as bream (Oreochromis spp.), kapenta (Limnothrissa miodon), catfish (Clarias gariepinus), and tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus). Fishing in Zambia has deep historical roots, with traditional fishing communities relying on artisanal methods for generations. In the 1960s and 1970s, the industry expanded with the introduction of commercial fishing, particularly for kapenta in Lake Kariba. Today, both artisanal and commercial fishing coexist, with kapenta and bream dominating catches for local consumption and regional trade, while the sector continues to face challenges such as overfishing, seasonal bans, and the need for sustainable management.

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