By: Festus Justus Margai- Strategic Regional Coordinator South-Bonthe Islands
The Head of Barefoot Adventure, Joe Sparrow, has announced that his company will be hosting an international fishing competition in Bohoi Village, Bonthe District, on February 12th, 2026. Speaking at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) weekly press conference in Bonthe Island, Sparrow highlighted the benefits of sport fishing, which he described as a non-consumptive activity that promotes conservation and tourism.
According to Sparrow, sport fishing is not about killing fish, but rather about the experience and the thrill of the catch. “We catch the fish, take a picture, and release it back into the water,” he explained. “This way, we get to know what kind of fish we’ve caught without harming it.”
Sparrow emphasized that sport fishing can attract people from all over the world, creating opportunities for growth and development in the community and district. He noted that his company, Barefoot Adventure, has already made a positive impact on the lives of people in Bohoi Village and the district as a whole.
The upcoming international fishing competition will feature 10 to 15 boats from countries including France, Spain, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, and others. The competition will see participants from seven nationalities, including Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, South Africa, Cameroon, and Ghana, vying for the biggest catch.
Sparrow expressed gratitude to the Minister of Fisheries for her support and cooperation. He also commended the fruitful discussions held with various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
The competition is expected to promote tourism and economic development in the district, while also showcasing the rich marine biodiversity of Sierra Leone.
