Fishing News 20240923-20240929
Latest Fishing News 20240923-20240929 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
Peru Cracks Down on Chinese Fishing Fleet (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
September 23, 2024
(source: dialogo-americas.com – by Juan Delgado/Diálogo)
Increased Surveillance
The Peruvian government has stepped up its efforts to combat illegal fishing by Chinese vessels operating off its coast. The Ministry of Production (PRODUCE) is focusing on controlling the Chinese fleet, particularly their pursuit of squid, a key resource for Peru. In 2020, Peru implemented a new regulation requiring foreign vessels to install an additional satellite tracking device before entering its ports. While this measure aimed to enhance monitoring, Chinese vessels continued to enter Peruvian ports, often under emergency entry claims.
Suspicious Activity and Illegal Fishing
These emergency entries sparked concerns among experts, who suspect the Chinese vessels are seeking to avoid heightened surveillance. Furthermore, reports have surfaced of Chinese vessels engaging in illegal fishing within Peru’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). One notable case involved the Tian Xiang, a Chinese vessel caught fishing illegally and subsequently fined. However, Peruvian fishing sector representatives deemed the fine “laughable.”
Government Action and Local Protests (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
Responding to the increasing concerns, PRODUCE announced an emergency decree to strengthen control over fishing activities. The decree mandates that vessels have their satellite tracking systems operational for six months prior to requesting access to Peruvian waters. In July, artisanal fishermen from the Peruvian Port of Paita protested against the perceived lack of government regulation and control over Chinese vessels’ illegal activities. Fishermen observed Chinese vessels operating in prohibited areas, and the situation led to several days of demonstrations at sea.
Environmental and Economic Concerns
NGOs, including the Peruvian Society of International Law, have expressed their concerns about the detrimental impact of illegal Chinese fishing on the environment and local fishermen. Artisanal fishermen have reported a significant decline in their catch due to the aggressive fishing practices of the Chinese fleet, which indiscriminately harvest squid of all sizes and ages. Experts highlight the detrimental effect of overfishing squid on the marine ecosystem, as it is a crucial food source for a wide range of species, from whales to birds.
Beyond Environmental Damage: Human Rights Violations
Beyond the environmental consequences, Schvartzman, the Oceans and Fisheries project coordinator at the Argentine NGO Círculo de Políticas Ambientales, raises concerns about human rights abuses within the Chinese fishing fleet. He cites evidence indicating that crew members, primarily Filipinos and Indonesians, are often subjected to semi-slavery conditions, lacking basic health and safety standards.
The Case of the Zhe Pu Yuan 98 (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
An investigation by the Peruvian NGO ArtisOnal revealed the Zhe Pu Yuan 98, a Chinese vessel operating as a floating hospital for sick or injured crew members. This vessel functions illegally, bypassing port inspections, and has been implicated in the disembarkation of seriously ill crew members and one deceased individual in the port of Callao.
Call to Action
Schvartzman emphasizes the urgent need for heightened awareness about the Chinese fleet’s detrimental impact on marine ecosystems, endangered species, and the economies of affected countries. He calls for collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and civil society to address this pressing issue.
Oceana Calls for Transparency in EU Seafood Labeling (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
September 24, 2024
(source: thefishingdaily.com – by Oliver McBride)
Lack of Information for Consumers
Oceana, a non-profit organization focused on ocean conservation, is calling on the European Commission to require more comprehensive labeling on processed seafood products. A recent analysis by Oceana revealed a concerning lack of information for consumers on key aspects of seafood products, such as the species, origin, and fishing methods used. For nearly 40% of processed seafood products analyzed in Belgium, France, and Spain, consumers are left in the dark regarding these critical details. This situation stands in stark contrast to the mandatory labeling requirements for fresh seafood entering the EU market.
The Need for Informed Choices
Oceana argues that the lack of transparency for processed seafood products hinders consumers’ ability to make informed and sustainable choices. For example, a can of tuna may simply be labeled as “tuna,” leaving consumers unaware of the specific species, which could include overfished stocks. Increased transparency would empower consumers, allowing them to choose seafood based on environmental and ethical considerations. Moreover, it would aid authorities in combating illegal fishing, food fraud, human rights violations, and illicit trade.
Hidden Seafood Supply Chains (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
Seafood supply chains are complex and often traverse multiple continents before reaching EU consumers. Recent research uncovered connections between European companies and seafood products sourced from China, raising concerns about forced labor in fishing and processing plants. Similarly, many fish fingers, a popular EU food item, are produced using fish caught by Russian vessels, despite Russia’s ranking as one of the worst performers in combating illegal fishing. Unlike other Russian-origin products, seafood remains exempt from EU sanctions.
Oceana’s Recommendations
To address this pressing issue, Oceana urges the European Commission to revise the Common Market Organisation (CMO) Regulation. This regulation sets labeling requirements for fishery and aquaculture products, and Oceana proposes the following changes:
- Expand Scope to Processed Seafood: Oceana recommends that the CMO Regulation be expanded to include processed seafood products, mandating basic information such as species, origin, fishing gear, and production methods for all products.
- Science-Based Sustainability Information: The inclusion of science-based sustainability information on all seafood products is critical, enabling consumers to identify sustainable options based on clear and objective criteria.
- Include Food Service Sector: The regulation should be extended to the food service sector, requiring mass caterers, hotels, and restaurants to provide consumers with information about species, origin, fishing gear, and production method. This would promote transparency throughout the seafood industry, ensuring that consumers are empowered to make informed decisions about their seafood choices.
The Importance of Transparency (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
Oceana underscores the vital importance of transparency in seafood labeling. Currently, legislation only mandates information for fresh and frozen seafood, excluding most processed products. Understanding the origins and methods of production of the seafood we consume is crucial for making informed and sustainable choices that support responsible fishing practices and protect the health of our oceans.
A Call to Action: Reversing Ocean Collapse Through Fisheries Reform (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
September 25, 2024
(source: news.mongabay.com – by Shanna Hanbury)
The Dire State of Global Fisheries
A groundbreaking study conducted by an international team of scientists paints a stark picture of the global fisheries industry, highlighting its devastating impact on the health of our oceans. The report unequivocally states that industrial fishing practices are driving the world’s oceans toward collapse. The study outlines 11 critical actions that must be taken to restore and maintain healthy oceans. These actions include reducing harmful fishing methods and ensuring that fish populations remain at 60% of their natural levels.
The Devastating Impact of Bottom Trawling
One of the most destructive fishing methods targeted for reform is bottom trawling. This practice involves dragging heavy nets and weights across the ocean floor, causing significant damage to marine ecosystems. A staggering 28% of the global fish catch is attributed to bottom trawling, which also leads to the capture of massive amounts of bycatch, unwanted marine animals caught in the nets. These bycatch species include dolphins, seals, turtles, and numerous bird species, resulting in a detrimental impact on marine biodiversity.
Beyond Overfishing: A Looming Ecosystem Collapse (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
The study’s lead author, Callum Roberts, emphasizes the urgent need for change, stating that fishing practices are destroying marine ecosystems and reducing their functionality. He warns that we are already witnessing the consequences of ocean dysfunction, such as jellyfish explosions and harmful algae blooms. Species like giant skates, angel sharks, and halibut have experienced alarming declines of up to 99% due to overfishing.
Diverse Perspectives and Calls for Stronger Protections
While the study’s recommendations for reform are widely supported, some experts believe they do not go far enough. Marine ecologist Graham Edgar argues for the expansion of no-fishing areas to serve as refuges for marine life and calls for increased funding for independent ecological monitoring programs. Conversely, other experts, like Ray Hilborn, express concerns about the potential for stricter regulations to lead to food insecurity.
Fishing for the Future: A Sustainable Approach (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
Roberts counters these concerns, emphasizing the need for sustainable fishing practices that prioritize long-term survival, not just for fisheries but for the entire planet. He argues that maintaining healthy marine ecosystems is crucial for ensuring the ocean’s ability to perform vital functions, such as producing clean water and storing carbon. Fishing practices must be reformed to ensure the health and resilience of these vital ecosystems.
The Silent Threat: Marine Plastic Litter and its Devastating Impact (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
September 26, 2024
(source: openaccessgovernment.org – by ???)
A Sea of Plastic: The Silent Threat
Marine plastic litter poses a serious threat to marine ecosystems, leading to ingestion, entanglement, and the potential release of harmful toxins. A concerning study in the North Sea revealed that 93% of fulmar birds analyzed had ingested plastic, with a significant proportion exceeding a critical level of plastic ingestion. The Mediterranean Sea shows a similar trend, with 85% of assessed turtles having ingested marine debris. While most marine plastic originates from land-based sources, a concerning 27% is attributed to fishing-related activities.
Ghost Fishing: A Hidden Peril
Lost or discarded fishing gear, often referred to as “ghost gear,” presents a significant threat to marine life. In the Baltic Sea, an estimated 450 tonnes of lost gillnets continue to catch approximately 300 tonnes of cod annually, a phenomenon known as “ghost fishing.” The consequences extend beyond environmental damage, impacting fishing activities, navigation, and even human health and safety.
Addressing the Crisis: Collaboration for Change (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
The global community is recognizing the urgent need to address the marine plastic litter crisis. Multinational, national, and private organizations, including the European Union, United Nations, and Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI), are intensifying their efforts to find solutions that engage all stakeholders involved in the marine environment and fishing industry.
Navigating the Complexities: Marking and Tracking Fishing Gear
Lost or discarded fishing gear presents a unique challenge due to the difficulty of locating submerged objects. International guidelines recommend marking fishing gear to facilitate identification, primarily focusing on surface-level navigation safety. However, the need for underwater marking of submerged gear remains a key challenge.
A Technological Solution: Underwater Localization and Traceability
A promising solution lies in the development of a standardized underwater marking system for fishing gear. This system would facilitate easier localization, traceability, retrieval, recycling, and certification, benefiting both professional and recreational fishermen, as well as marine organizations. It would also support circular economy practices in marine resource management and assist fishing gear manufacturers in meeting future requirements for increased producer responsibility.
Innovation for a Sustainable Future: Cleaning and Marking (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
Recognizing the profound impact of marine plastic litter, there are ongoing research and innovation efforts aimed at developing solutions for reporting, cleaning, marking, and raising awareness about marine debris. These initiatives are supported by various funding opportunities, including the European Horizon program and the GGGI.
The “Find Me” Project: A Collaborative Effort
The Swedish “Find Me” project represents a collaborative effort to address the challenges of underwater localization and retrieval of lost fishing gear. Partners from diverse sectors, including enterprises, research institutes, and professional fishermen, are working together to mitigate the damage caused by lost fishing gear. The project faces significant technological, regulatory, and economic hurdles.
The Future of Marine Litter: A Collaborative Path Forward
The development of affordable and reliable underwater ID marking tags, with integrated traceability through the Internet of Things, has the potential to become a globally functional solution for managing marine plastic litter. The path toward a circular economy for fishing gear logistics and plastic litter management is being paved, creating opportunities for international cooperation within the global fishing industry.
Fishing Fun for All: IBEW Local 972 Hosts Take Kids Fishing Day (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
September 27, 2024
(source: mariettatimes.com – by Michelle Dillon)
A Day of Fishing and Community
Sunshine bathed Buckeye Park as families gathered for the annual Take Kids Fishing Day, hosted by IBEW Local 972. The event, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., provided a chance for families to enjoy a day of fishing, food, and fun. Children and adults alike were seen eagerly surrounding the pond, rods and reels in hand, hoping to land a big catch.
IBEW Local 972 Connects with Community
IBEW Local 972 provided each child attending the event with a brand-new fishing pole, complete with line and hook. Nicole Webster, an IBEW Local 972 member, explained that the event was designed to bring people together and showcase the organization’s commitment to both labor and community. “It’s fun to see how excited the kids get,” she remarked.
A Successful Turnout (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
The event, which had been paused due to the pandemic, returned three years ago and saw a record turnout of over 130 people. Webster expressed her satisfaction, stating, “I think it’s the best turnout we’ve had in the last three years.”
Family Fun and Fishing Adventures
Terri Hallowell and her husband Ronnie brought their grandchildren, Kylie Stevens and Abby Lockyear, to enjoy the event. They had a fun time fishing, despite not landing any catches yet. Stevens, a seasoned angler, remarked, “I like to hold the fish,” revealing her passion for the sport. Even though their lines tangled, they remained undeterred, emphasizing the joy of the experience.
Community, Connection, and Conservation
The IBEW Local 972 Take Kids Fishing Day served as a reminder of the importance of community engagement, fostering a love of fishing among the next generation. The event provided a platform for families to create lasting memories while promoting conservation awareness through responsible fishing practices.
A New Era of Bluefin Tuna Conservation: The UK’s First Championship (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
September 28, 2024
A First for the UK
The UK is hosting its inaugural Bluefin Tuna Championship, a catch-and-release tournament focused on the conservation of this magnificent species. The event represents a significant milestone in the UK’s growing recreational fishery for bluefin tuna, which has returned to UK waters in recent years. In partnership with anglers and skippers, the University of Exeter has tagged tuna with high-tech devices to track their movements and inform conservation efforts.
A Partnership for Conservation
The championship builds upon the success of a pilot scheme for commercial fishing of bluefin tuna, established last year. This scheme, limited to 10 licenses and strict quotas, is designed to sustainably manage the species’ return. Bluefin tuna, known for their impressive size, can reach lengths of 10ft and weigh over 1,000lbs.
Sharing Knowledge and Promoting Research (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
The University of Exeter, a leading institution in bluefin tuna research, is participating in the championship, sharing insights from six years of tracking these remarkable fish. Dr. Lucy Hawkes, a researcher at the university, highlights the data collected from over 150 tagged tuna, revealing fascinating migration patterns and providing valuable information for policy and management decisions.
A Celebration of Sport, Science, and Sustainability
The championship, held in the picturesque Falmouth Harbour, is envisioned as an annual event attracting an international angling community. Tristan Rowe, Falmouth Harbour’s commercial operations manager, emphasizes the event’s unique combination of sport, science, and sustainability. He expresses excitement about hosting the University of Exeter team, whose research and expertise will be of great interest to visitors and the local community.
A Growing Community (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
With 19 vessels registered for the inaugural event, a mix of private and charter boats are set to participate. The championship promises to foster a growing community of passionate anglers dedicated to the responsible management and conservation of bluefin tuna.
A Pioneer on the Waves (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
September 29, 2024
(source: news.stv.tv – by Ewan Petrie)
A Vision for Sustainability
Hans Unkles, a seasoned boatbuilder and fisherman, embarked on a remarkable journey. Driven by a deep concern for the environment and a desire to see the fishing industry embrace sustainable practices, he set out to convert his boat into a fully electric vessel. The project, fueled by a sense of urgency and a commitment to reduce carbon emissions, took shape in a shed near the village of Tayvallich in Argyll.
Innovation on the Water
The transformation of the Lorna Jane from a traditional diesel-powered fishing boat to an electric marvel was a testament to Unkles’ ingenuity and dedication. He spent two-and-a-half years meticulously converting the boat, replacing the engine with a powerful battery pack and installing solar panels to harness the sun’s energy. This groundbreaking project resulted in a fishing boat unlike any other in the UK, a shining example of sustainable fishing practices.
A Financial and Environmental Win (Fishing News 20240923-20240929)
Unkles’ dedication to sustainability was not just a personal mission; it was a shrewd financial decision. Despite the significant initial investment of over £130,000, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance are substantial. With the Lorna Jane, Unkles has demonstrated that sustainable fishing can be both environmentally responsible and financially viable.
Navigating Uncharted Waters
The creation of the Lorna Jane has set a precedent for others in the fishing industry. However, widespread adoption faces hurdles. The lack of established infrastructure for electric boats, coupled with the challenges of navigating regulatory frameworks, poses significant obstacles. Despite these hurdles, Unkles remains committed to his vision, proving that innovation and determination can lead to a greener future for the fishing industry.
A Call for Collaboration
As the lone electric fishing boat in the UK, the Lorna Jane represents a beacon of hope. Unkles’ pioneering spirit has paved the way for others to follow, but the journey demands collaboration and support. Without a robust infrastructure and the necessary regulatory framework, the transition to electric fishing remains a difficult endeavor. Unkles’ success underscores the crucial need for investment and collaboration to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices in the fishing industry.