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Nigeria, with its diverse water bodies, offers a wealth of fishing opportunities for both local and visiting anglers. From vast lakes to winding rivers and coastal areas, Nigeria boasts fishing spots where fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines. Let’s explore some of the best fishing spots across Nigeria.

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Lake Basins

Nigeria is home to several notable lakes that provide excellent fishing spots. Lake Chad, shared by four countries including Nigeria, is a large freshwater body surrounded by dunes. Although only a small portion lies within Nigerian borders, it stretches for about 160 miles, offering ample space for fishing. In Kogi State, Lake Kainji is a human-made lake created in 1968 by damming the Niger River. Covering an area of about 1,300 square kilometres and reaching depths of 12 meters, it’s a popular spot for anglers. For those in the Southeast, Oguta Lake in Imo State is the largest natural freshwater lake in the region. Fed by the Njaba River and connected to the Niger system through the Orashi River, it provides a diverse habitat for various fish species.

River Basins and Flood Plains

The Niger River and its flood plains offer extensive fishing opportunities. The lower Nigerian flood plain, known locally as “Fadamas,” stretches from the Niger Delta to where the Niger and Benue rivers meet at Lokoja. These flood plains serve as additional fishing grounds to the main river channel. Similarly, the Benue River and its flood plains cover a vast area from the Cameroon border to Lokoja. The floodplain adds to the fishing possibilities along the main river and its tributaries. Other important river systems for fishing include the Imo River, Qua-Iboe River, and Sokoto River. These smaller waterways can be excellent spots for catching various freshwater fish species.

Coastal and Brackish Water Fishing

Nigeria’s coastal areas offer unique fishing spots. The Niger Delta region is crisscrossed with creeks and swamps, including the Bonny River and New Calabar River. These waterways, where inland rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean, provide diverse fishing environments.

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Lagos and Lekki lagoons are also popular fishing spots, especially for those near the bustling city of Lagos. These brackish water bodies support a mix of freshwater and saltwater fish species, making them interesting locations for anglers.

Offshore Fishing

Nigeria’s coastal waters offer exciting opportunities, for those interested in deep-sea fishing. The country’s maritime area is part of the East Central Atlantic Fisheries zone. Fishing offshore is done by commercial operations. However, some companies offer deep-sea fishing trips for recreational anglers. The coastal brackish water zone is where most local fishing boats operate. It extends up to 25 kilometres from the shore and depths of 50 meters. Six coastal states contribute significantly to Nigeria’s marine fish production, with Rivers State being the largest contributor. Beyond this zone lies the deep-sea area, where larger vessels venture for commercial fishing. This area is divided into three main fishing grounds: the central equatorial zone (Gulf of Guinea), the north equatorial zone (south of Senegal), and the south equatorial zone (from the mouth of the Congo River).

Fishing Tips and Considerations

When planning a fishing trip in Nigeria, it’s important to consider the type of environment you’ll be fishing in. Different habitats require different techniques and equipment. Common techniques in freshwater bodies like lakes and rivers include bait fishing, lure fishing, and net fishing for larger operations. For coastal and brackish water fishing, it’s crucial to pay attention to tides and water conditions. These areas often have a mix of freshwater and saltwater species, so versatile equipment is beneficial. If you’re interested in deep-sea fishing, it’s best to go with experienced operators who understand the local waters and regulations. They can provide the necessary equipment and knowledge for a successful offshore fishing experience. Remember to respect local fishing regulations and practice sustainable fishing methods. This helps ensure that Nigeria’s rich fishing grounds remain productive for future generations of anglers.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor to Nigeria, exploring these diverse fishing spots can provide exciting adventures and the chance to catch a variety of fish species. From the serene lakes of the interior to the dynamic coastal waters, Nigeria offers something for every type of angler.

Featured Image Source: Wigmore Trading

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This article was first published on 26th June 2024

chidiogo-akaelu

Chidiogo Shalom Akaelu holds a degree in English and Literary Studies, from the University of Nigeria. She is a freelance writer, editor and founder of Loana Press, a budding online publishing outlet.