Maldives Targets Fishing Tournament

The Maldives aims to become the Monaco of sport fishing with a boutique competition for elite anglers in 2027.

“We can be the Monaco of fishing”

HARIM Group's Vision

Mohamed Ali Janah, group chairman of the HARIM Group, says the Maldives has outstanding weather when Northern Hemisphere is freezing.

“When the weather is freezing in the Northern Hemisphere, we have outstanding weather”

Combining Fishing with Tourism

Janah plans to launch a competition in partnership with the government next year to attract global anglers.

Potential Game Fish

Possible game fish include marlin, sailfish, tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi already used in Maldivian fishing excursions.

Fishing Traditions

Maldivian fishing competitions have deep roots with women prominent among successful competitors.

Shaheedha Mohamed Wins

Shaheedha Mohamed of Team Sea Pearl won Best Fisherwoman at Ooredoo Masrace 2026 after catching 19 fish.

International Appeal

The Maldives offers warm weather during Northern Hemisphere winter for international fishing competitions.

Commercial Potential

Visiting teams could create business for local operators and extend holidays for competitors with families.

Balaton Carp Cup Partnership

Janah considers partnering with the International Balaton Carp Cup for organizational model and experience.

Conservation Precedent

The IBCC uses catch-and-release rules with verification and handling standards for fish.

Indian Ocean Games Opportunity

Maldives may include sports fishing in the 2029 Indian Ocean Games for Small Island Developing States.

Formula One of Fishing

Jasim Janah, Group CEO of Harim Group, says the event could attract a few thousand participants in years.