Fishing is the economic lifeblood of Sherbro Island, and the offshore waters and mangrove channels support an enormous variety of fish. Barracuda, snapper, grouper, and various bream species are the main catches. The Sherbro people have been fishing these waters for centuries and have developed intricate knowledge of the tidal patterns, seasonal movements, and best spots that no outside visitor is going to replicate.
The most rewarding way to experience this is simply to ask around in Bonthe or one of the fishing villages whether a boat crew will take you along on an early morning run. This is not an organised activity — it requires a bit of initiative and the willingness to negotiate informally and get up very early. But going out in a traditional wooden fishing boat as the sun rises over the estuary, watching the nets go down and come up, is one of those experiences that stays with you. Bring something to contribute — fresh food, fuel money — and you will be welcomed.