Fisheries Division Conducts Training on Laws, Regulations and Sustainability

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By Brent Simon

Today 4th April,2025, the Fisheries Division in the Ministry of Agriculture hosted another training session aimed at equipping trainees in the fishing industry with essential knowledge on fisheries laws, regulation and sustainable practices.

The session led by Mr. Ian Horsford/Chief Fisheries Officer, covered critical topics including the basic requirements for registration, closed seasons, and illegal activities within the industry.

One of the primary focuses of the session was educating participants about the closed seasons for various marine species as outlined by the Fisheries Division.

These regulations are designed to ensure the sustainability of marine life and prevent overfishing. According to the division’s guidelines:

Nassau Grouper, Red Hind, and Coney are off-limits from January 1st to March 1st

Parrotfish (Chub Fish) of all species are protected from May 1st to July 31st

Lobster cannot be caught, possessed, or sold from May 1st to June 31st, and specific restrictions apply to undersized, molting, or egg bearing lobsters

Conch is regulated from July 1st to August 31st, with limitations on shell size, flared lip thickness, and meat weight

Marine Turtles are completely protected, with no open season, prohibiting any form of capture, disturbance, or sale.

Violators of these closed season restrictions may face severe penalties, including incarceration or fines of up to $ 50,000 ECD.

The session also highlighted illegal activities such as unregistered fishing operations and the sale of protected species.

Mr. Horsford emphasized the importance of compliance to avoid legal consequences and contribute to long-term fisheries sustainability.

This is the third of the year, in a series of workshops to enhance the fisheries and its stakeholders. The first two focused on Safety at Sea and Small Business Management and other modules will be announced in the weeks to come.

Additionally, in March, of this year the Fisheries Division in collaboration with CARIFCO and JICA introduced trainees to the use of biodegradable panels in fish pots to reduce ghost fishing.

The biodegradable panels ensure that if a fish pot is lost, it will eventually open allowing trapped marine life to escape.

Participants received hands-on guidance on installing these panels, reinforcing the division’s commitment to responsible fishing practices.

The Fisheries Division continues to advocate for responsible and legal fishing activities, ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda’s marine resources remain abundant for future generations.

Fishermen and stakeholders are encouraged to report illegal activities by contacting the Fisheries Division at 462-1372 or 462-6106 or via email at [email protected].

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