This technical report aims to expound on the constraints and opportunities faced by women, men, marginalized poor and youths whose livelihoods depend on aquatic food systems. To address this, the report uses case studies and examples of research through the CGIAR Research Program on Fish Agri-Food Systems (FISH) that provide four pathways to advance women’s empowerment and gender equality in aquatic food systems. The report is targeted toward researchers, practitioners and other bodies working and interested in making an impact in aquatic food systems, with a special focus on addressing social inclusion and inequities that arise from the systems.