Fishing in Senegal: Capturing Coastal Life | Sean Davis

Fishing in Senegal

Travel Photography from Senegal

Artisanal fishing is a cornerstone of coastal life in Senegal, where communities like Joal-Fadiouth, Mbour, Kayar, and Saint-Louis rely on the sea for both sustenance and cultural identity. In Joal-Fadiouth, the country’s largest artisanal fishing port, fishermen navigate traditional wooden pirogues through mangrove-lined estuaries, bringing in daily catches that support local markets and families . Mbour’s bustling landing sites are renowned for sardinella fishing, a vital source of income and nutrition for the region . In Kayar, a town north of Dakar, fishing is the main economic activity, with a significant number of pirogues operating daily . Saint-Louis, with its vibrant Guet Ndar district, showcases a dynamic fishing community where the rhythms of life are intimately tied to the tides . These communities exemplify the resilience and dedication of Senegal’s artisanal fishers, who continue to uphold their traditions amidst changing environmental and economic landscapes. 

I traveled from Saint-Louis all the way down the coast to Cap Skirring to document the lives of the families that work the sea.