Gulf of Paria: Our Fishing Haven

Learning about the Gulf of Paria

The Gulf of Paria is a body of water that bounds the west coast of Trinidad and Tobago and the east coast of Venezuela. It is approximately 7,800km2 of shallow sea with a wide range of biodiversity. This sea in particular has a mixed diversity of the Caribbean and South American marine life. Rivers from South America such as the famous Amazon River and the Orinoco River drain into the Gulf of Paria. Locally, the Caroni River and the Oropuche River are the major rivers that drain into the Gulf of Paria.

Figure 1: Showing the location of the Gulf of Paria (Stabroek News 2018)

The diversity of marine life found in the Gulf of Paria makes it one of our main fishing hubs. The Gulf of Paria is home to more than 70 fish species and at least 5 shrimp species (IMA 2018) most of which are commercially fished. It supports more than 2500 fishers and fishing communities which makes sustainable fishing practices of utmost importance. We are responsible for preserving the fish populations for future generations.

Figure 2: Fishermen on the shores of the Gulf of Paria (Newsday 2019)

What are sustainable fishing practices we can implement in T&T?

Knowing the fish you catch:

Fishermen and fishers should be aware of the reproductive, migratory, and feeding patterns of the fish species they are targeting. Fish should not be captured which they are spawning. Many times these fish are carrying or protecting eggs when they are caught, which inhibits the reproductive cycle. Migration is typically linked to reproduction or changes in temperature. This can be an advantage for fishermen so they can put in less effort for a greater haul, especially targeting the larger, mature fish.

Figure 3: showing a fisherman and a large redfish (Trini Fishing Crew 2020)

Using the right fishing equipment:

The use of clear, monofilament nets should only be applied when fishing during the day, not while fishing at night. It is extremely difficult to see monofilament nets at night. It is recommended that green nets be used instead when fishing night. It will not affect the potential to catch fish and it is easier to retrieve the net after fishing. Another common issue with using nets is the size. The net size should be relative to the fish you are trying to capture so that only the larger fish are caught while the smaller, juvenile fish can pass through the net. In this way, we can ensure the protection of the species.

Figure 4: showing a net being cast (iStock 2022)

Obey the Law:

In Trinidad and Tobago, we have legislation under the Fisheries Act that stipulates fish must meet a certain size requirement and if it is not met, the fish must be released. This legislation was produced for the species of fish that are commercially fished in our waters, however sadly, many disregard the importance of this during commercial fishing. Much juvenile fish and non-target fish species also die in the process due to nets being left unattended for extended periods of time.

 

Figure 5: the front page of the Fisheries Management Bill 2020 which is set to amend the Fisheries Act 2000 (GoRTT 2020)

What do you think we can do to create sustainable fishing practices in Trinidad and Tobago?

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