Fishing in Kiribati form a very important part in Kiribati's way of living. There are certain fishing norms that are followed while fishing in Kiribati. These norms are followed by every generation. Fishing can be referred to as the mainstay of the people residing here.
The fishing practices differ because it is normally passed from one family group to another group. Writers like David Lewis and Sir Arthur Grimble have recorded the earlier fishing practices or methods but now there is a lot of changes in
fishing in Kiribati. The practices of fishing differ from one island to another. The main reason behind this is the presence of alternative recreation and food. Another reason behind this is application of modern ideas.
The traditional practice of fishing required the involvement of the community or better known as the lets go fishing concept. In the northern islands of Kiribati there are much more marine resources to fishing than the southern islands. Northern islands have abundance of edible cockle, octopus, clam, sypunculid, sea urchin and it makes easier for the locals to get their food that is fish. Sometimes the inhabitants use technical skills which includes calling dolphins on shore which is reported in 'The Pattern of Islands' by Sir Arthur Grimble in 1952.
In the southern islands there is less lagoon and even some islands do not have lagoons at all. In Kiribati Fishing is done mainly for subsistence. The proper knowledge of fishing skills gives status and recognition among the village communities. In Kiribati there are 30 different types of fishing practices. The name of these fishing practices is as follows:
- At the Reef Edge:
- Reef Flat and Lagoon Flat
- Canoes
- On the Open Sea:
Kiribati Fishing shows the culture and tradition of Kiribati.
