Fishing in Vanuatu

Situated geologically at the edge of the Pacific Plate, the islands' land masses rise to heights of 5 m above the surface, with their bottoms at depths of 1000 m within a distance of 1 km from the coast (they are termed undersea mountains[2]).

This situation has created a very congenial setting for pelagic or open water fishing, close to the coastline of the country.

With the wild stock of Giant clams exhausted, the country has looked for investors in the farming of the species.

Other opportunities for fish-farming that are being considered include Shrimp, as well as Milk Fish, Prawns, Oysters, and Mullet.

[6] All marine activities in Vanuatu must comply with the law, which includes acquiring a fishing license from the department.

[7] Since 1983, Vanuatu has participated in the Artisanal Fishing and Subsistence program in cooperation with the Fisheries Department and ORSTOM.

Game and reef fishing packages include hi-tech equipment, with day trip or liveaboard options.

When sport fishing for dogtooth, yellowfin tuna, or wahoo, the catch is either tagged and released or provided to local villagers.

[9] Women play a proactive role in fishing operations, along with men, mostly in the shallow near-shore waters.