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THE BEST SELECTION OF LODGES ON THE UPPER, MIDDLE AND LOWER ZAMBEZI |
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WE CATER FOR ALL FISHING STYLES: SPINNING, TROLLING, BAIT AND FLY! |
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THE ZAMBIA ZAMBEZI FISHING BAN OCCURS 01 DEC - 28 FEB EACH YEAR |
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We have long campaigned for the implementation of strict “catch and release” measures to protect the fishery and jobs. Fishing camps basically close during what should be a peak period tourism wise. I would like to invite any member of this group to please put forward an argument supporting the ban.
2025-08-20 | 10 min read |
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Written by
Chris Wood |
I would like to invite any member of this group to please put forward an argument supporting the ban. Here are some of the main arguments against the Zambia Zambezi fishing ban, as reported by local stakeholders, experts, and in parliamentary discussions.
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1. Lack of Transboundary Coordination |
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Fishing bans in Zambia often aren’t mirrored by neighboring riparian countries. This discrepancy leads to free-riding—where fish migrate across borders but only some countries restrict fishing. As one MP noted in Zambia’s National Assembly:
“If you enforce a fishing ban in Zambia while the other countries have not…it is meaningless to impose a fishing ban…you are just depriving your citizens of income…”
Research on the Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area highlights how varying rules across countries—Zambia’s three-month ban versus shorter or no bans elsewhere—undermine effectiveness and generate resentment. |
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2. Economic Hardship & Tourism Impact
The ban often coincides with peak fishing and tourism season, adversely affecting lodges, guides, and other businesses dependent on sport fishing. Critics argue there’s no scientific basis for banning during these periods. Others point to alternative approaches like catch-and-release, used in neighbouring countries. |
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3. Insufficient Evidence for Benefits; Alternative Measures Possible
Some critics question whether bans lead to meaningful improvements in fish stocks. One article argues that multi-species fisheries—like those in Zambia—aren’t necessarily helped by closures. Instead, measures like gear selectivity, fish-size limits, or licensing may be more effective. |
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4. Disruption of Livelihoods & Enforcement Challenges
Many rural communities rely directly on fishing for sustenance and income. During the ban, without alternative opportunities or support, people are pushed into illegal fishing. In some areas, the guidelines aren’t even clear to locals. One fisherman in Mufumbwe described how crossing a river slightly could result in apprehension due to unclear park boundaries.
Lack of resources compounds the issue: patrols and enforcement are insufficient, and tools like drones, vessel tracking, or adequate staffing are often missing. |
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Chris Wood Owner and Guide: TigerFishingZambezi and Maplanga Africa |
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I would like to invite any recipient of this emailer to forward me their views;
chris@tigerfishingzambezi.com |
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3 nights FROM |
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R11,670 PPS |
| Validity: 01 Jan – 31 Dec 2025 |
Includes: Return road transfers from Vic Falls Airport, 3 nights accommodation, breakfast, complimentary shuttle service to the Victoria Falls/Town, a full Day fishing including boat, captain/guide, tackle, bait, refreshments (soft drinks/beers), lunch and transfers. |
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4 nights FROM |
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$1,725 PPS |
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