Fishing News Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20241021-20241027
Latest Fishing News 20241021-20241027 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
Mahomet Anglers Compete in International Fishing Tournament in Zimbabwe (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
October 21, 2024
(source: footboom1.com – by ???)
A New Batch of Recruits
The Illinois State Police welcomes a new class of 35 recruits, including eight assigned to Troops 5 and 7. While this is a significant event, another local story is grabbing the attention of the sporting community.
A Fishing Adventure of a Lifetime
Two young fishing enthusiasts, Brayden Rivest and Andrew Crawford, from Mahomet-Seymour are embarking on a journey of over 8,500 miles to Zimbabwe. They, along with Brayden’s father, Tim, the team’s head coach, will be competing in the inaugural USA Bass Youth Tri-Nations Cup. This prestigious event will provide them with a unique fishing experience.
A Well-Deserved Opportunity (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
This incredible opportunity arose after the duo placed second in the Illinois Bass Nation state championship this past June. They will represent Team USA in the Tri-Nations World Bass Cup, competing individually but recognized for their collective achievements. Crawford expressed his excitement, stating, “I’ve never ventured this far out of the country before; the closest I’ve been is Mexico!”
A Shared Passion for Fishing
Brayden, who has been fishing since childhood, and Crawford, who took up the sport just three years ago, are eager to face the challenges ahead. Brayden, reflecting on the thrill of this opportunity, remarked, “Fishing in Africa is going to be unbelievable! It’s the first tournament of its kind for high school students, and I know it’s going to be a blast!” They will be competing against talented teams from Zimbabwe and South Africa, proving that fishing is a universal language that connects people across borders.
A Legacy of Fishing
Brayden’s passion for fishing seems to run in the family. His father, Tim, a Champaign police officer, founded the M-S fishing team three years ago, sharing his extensive knowledge of the sport with young anglers. The pair have achieved notable fishing feats, including Brayden’s capture of a 6-pound bass at Clinton Lake during an Illinois High School Association sectional tournament. “Catching it was so much fun; it took me about five minutes to bring it into the boat. I love how they fight!” said Brayden.
A Challenge Awaits (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
The duo prefers targeting smallmouth bass, known for their challenging fight, but in Zimbabwe, they will be aiming for the largemouth variety. Crawford described the largemouth bass as aggressive fighters, noting, “There are numerous techniques and baits one can use to catch them, which is quite thrilling!”
The Importance of Patience
Rivest emphasized the mental and physical demands of being a successful fisherman. “It truly requires patience, as sometimes the fishing can be slow. It’s all about having the right mindset. You must adapt your game when things don’t go as planned,” he explained.
A Global Competition
The Zimbabwe National Bass Federation will host this highly anticipated competition at the Mazvidadei Resort. This year marks the USA’s first invitation to join this friendly rivalry between South African and Zimbabwean youth.
Forging International Bonds (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Strati Orphanides, youth director of the Zimbabwe National Bass Federation, highlighted the significance of this event, stating, “This tournament aims to fortify international relationships among youth anglers and develop their skills in the sport. We hope this fosters lifelong friendships across nations.”
A Shared Goal
Leading the U.S. team is Jason Uldrych, who shared his enthusiasm, saying, “This offers our young anglers a unique experience, pitting them against some of the best from Zimbabwe and South Africa. Everyone is striving for the ultimate prize – the gold!”
A Teamwork Approach
Each angler’s weight will be compiled from their five biggest fish caught over three days, encouraging collaboration as they share boats while aiming to outfish each other.
An Expedition of a Lifetime (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Leaving on December 5th and returning a week later, Brayden and Andrew will be accompanied by family members, adding a touch of support to this significant expedition.
The Adventure Begins
Excitement, teamwork, and competition await as these young anglers embark on their journey to make history in Zimbabwe!
Palau’s Marine Sanctuary: A Debate Over Conservation and Fishing (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
October 22, 2024
(source: voanews.com – by William Yang)
A Conservation Legacy in Question
In 2015, Palau, a tiny Pacific nation, became a global leader in conservation by enacting a law that closed off 80% of its ocean to fishing. This created one of the largest marine sanctuaries in the world. However, a proposed government plan to expand fishing in the waters from 20% to 50% is testing this legacy.
A Divisive Election Issue
The debate over the plan has become a central issue in the upcoming general elections, scheduled for November 5th. The two presidential candidates, current president Surangel Whipps Jr. and former president Tommy Remengesau Jr., who are brothers-in-law, have contrasting views on the future of the marine sanctuary. Whipps Jr. believes in balancing conservation with sustainable use of marine resources, while Remengesau Jr. advocates for continued leadership in ocean conservation.
A Balancing Act for Sustainability (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
The government’s plan, formally titled Marine Spatial Planning, aims to maintain Palau’s efforts to protect biodiversity while fostering growth in the country’s domestic fishing industry. Palau’s fishing industry is relatively small due to limited resources and competition from foreign fishing vessels.
Addressing the Concerns of a Shrinking Supply
Steven Victor, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment, stated, “We are trying to figure out how to protect and manage a healthy ocean while developing sustainable use of its resources.” He explained that the plan is driven by a decline in tuna supply and Palau’s growing reliance on imported seafood, making fish increasingly unaffordable for many citizens.
A Potential Threat to Conservation Leadership
While the government asserts the plan will balance conservation and sustainable resource exploration, some activists and politicians express concern about the potential damage to Palau’s reputation as a conservation leader. Jennifer Koskelin-Gibbons, co-founder of the Palau Legacy Project, voiced her worry that the plan could erode Palau’s “pristine paradise” image.
Concerns Over Funding and Foreign Influence (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Others believe the expansion of the fishing zone could jeopardize valuable foreign funding for conservation efforts. Former president Remengesau Jr. questioned the rationale for reducing Palau’s global contribution to conservation while opportunities for funding through carbon credits and climate change initiatives remain.
A Scientific Approach to Maintaining Biodiversity
Whipps Jr., in response, highlighted that the government aims to go beyond recommendations from scientific studies like the National Geographic report, which called for a 50-mile ban around reefs, to protect biodiversity. The proposed plan adjusts the marine sanctuary to 50% of Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), effectively implementing a more extensive protection measure.
Worries of Foreign Fishing Fleet Dominance
Some Palauan fishermen fear that the expanded fishing area could facilitate the return of large foreign fishing fleets, potentially leading to a resurgence of their dominance over the sector. Okada Techitong, chairperson of Belau Offshore Fishers Inc., expressed concern that foreign companies could take control of the fish resources.
Limiting Foreign Participation (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Victor, the fisheries minister, clarified that the government intends to only allow fishing companies active in Palauan waters since the sanctuary’s implementation in January 2020 to operate in the expanded fishing zone. This effectively limits participation to two domestic companies and Japanese fishing fleets supporting Palau’s industry.
A Debate on the Need for Expansion
Despite this measure, some Palauan fishermen argue that the current 20% fishing zone is sufficient for local needs. They believe that expanding the zone is unnecessary because Palauan fishing is not a highly sought-after career.
Trust is Key to a Consensus
Victor acknowledged opposition to the plan within the Senate. He emphasized the need for building trust between the government and the community for the plan to be effective. He believes that providing relevant information will enable informed decisions regarding the future of Palau’s marine resources.
A Regulatory Gap: Chinese Fishing Vessel Doubles as Hospital, Raises Concerns (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
October 23, 2024
(source: news.mongabay.com – by Yvette Sierra Praeli)
A Fleet of Shadows: Elusive Chinese Squid Fishing Vessels
Transparency is a foreign concept for the Chinese squid fishing fleet operating in South American waters. These vessels, known for employing tactics like disabling their satellite tracking systems and duplicating identities within monitoring systems, routinely evade scrutiny. They also engage in illegal fishing and forced labor practices, further heightening concerns about their activities.
A Floating Hospital Unveiled
Artisonal, a Peruvian civil society organization, tracked the Zhe Pu Yuan 98, a fishing vessel serving as a makeshift hospital for sick crew members from other vessels in the fleet. Over three years, 37 crew members in critical condition and one deceased member were transferred from Chinese vessels to the Port of Callao in Peru. The Zhe Pu Yuan 98 alone transferred 15 crew members.
A Question of Regulation (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Eloy Aroni, Artisonal’s director, noted the unusual frequency of the Zhe Pu Yuan 98’s port entries, all classified as forced arrivals due to emergencies. The Outlaw Ocean Project, a journalism organization, confirmed that the vessel functioned as a floating hospital with a small operating room and a doctor on board.
A Regulatory Vacuum
Aroni highlighted the lack of regulatory framework for vessels serving a dual purpose as fishing vessels and medical facilities. The Zhe Pu Yuan 98 is registered as a fishing vessel with the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO), an intergovernmental agency responsible for managing fishing in international waters. However, the SPRFMO only issues permits to fishing vessels and support vessels, not vessels providing medical attention. This regulatory gap, Aroni asserts, facilitates illegal fishing activities as vessels without proper permits can use medical treatment as a means of avoiding detection.
Dodging Regulations and Evasion Tactics
In 2020, Peru implemented legislation requiring foreign vessels docking in its ports to use an additional satellite tracking device for improved itinerary monitoring. The Chinese fleet, however, has largely disregarded this rule. Aroni believes that the presence of a hospital vessel is another strategy to circumvent Peruvian regulations.
Sanitary Concerns and Lack of Transparency (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Milko Schvartzman, an expert on Chinese fleet operations, expressed concern about the sanitary conditions of a vessel simultaneously functioning as a fishing vessel and a hospital. He argued that sick and injured crew members should be transported directly to hospitals on land, not transferred to other vessels.
Opaque Practices and Missing Information
Schvartzman also raised the issue of missing information in disembarkation reports. These reports lack details about the vessels from which sick or injured crew members originated, making it impossible to identify vessels with higher incidents of illness or accidents.
A History of Illegal Practices
In 2023, Mongabay Latam reported that a significant number of Chinese vessels entering Peruvian ports belonged to companies with histories of illegal fishing or forced labor. Schvartzman recalled a 2017 case of two crew members who escaped from a vessel and reported poor working conditions to Uruguayan authorities.
A Call for Regulation
The lack of transparency and the lack of regulatory frameworks surrounding the Chinese squid fishing fleet raise serious concerns. Experts call for increased regulation and monitoring to ensure that these vessels comply with international standards, including labor rights and environmental protection.
Industrial Fishing and the Ocean’s Carbon Sink: A Delicate Balance (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
October 24, 2024
(source: desmog.com – by Sophie Kevany)
The Unforeseen Climate Impact of Industrial Fishing
Fish is often marketed as a climate-friendly protein source. However, new research suggests that industrial fishing practices may be undermining the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide. This revelation throws a wrench into the seemingly sustainable image of seafood consumption. The ocean, along with forests, has absorbed over half of all human-made emissions, effectively slowing down global warming. However, scientists warn that these processes are at risk of collapsing as global temperatures rise.
Disrupting the Biological Carbon Pump
Industrial fishing activities, particularly bottom trawling, are disrupting the ocean’s natural carbon sequestration process known as the “biological carbon pump.” This process involves dead marine animals, and their waste, sinking to the ocean floor, locking carbon away for long periods. Fish, through their diet, accumulate carbon within their bodies. When these fish are removed from the ocean by humans, this stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere. This release occurs through fish consumption, decomposition, and human waste emissions.
The Rise of Bottom Trawling and its Carbon Footprint (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
The carbon footprint of fishing has dramatically increased with the widespread adoption of bottom trawling. This destructive practice involves dragging heavy nets along the seabed, targeting species like cod, haddock, and halibut. This process not only disrupts the ocean floor ecosystem but also releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Scientists estimate that bottom trawling releases roughly the same amount of CO2 as 88 million petrol-powered cars annually.
Labeling Limits and Consumer Responsibility
In an attempt to promote sustainable fishing practices, the European Union introduced labeling that indicates the catch methods used. However, studies have shown that the accuracy of these labels is inconsistent. While some advocate for consumer responsibility in choosing sustainable seafood, others argue that this places an undue burden on consumers. They emphasize the complexity of this decision-making process, and the need for government regulations to ensure sustainability.
Farmed Fish: A False Solution?
The farmed fish industry has positioned itself as a solution to overfishing. However, this approach comes with its own set of problems. Farmed fish rely heavily on fishmeal and fish oil, derived from wild fish caught from the sea. The production of these feeds requires a significant amount of wild fish, further disrupting the ocean’s carbon sink. While the industry claims to be reducing its dependence on wild fish, campaigners argue that this effort is not enough, particularly with rising global demand for seafood.
Marine Protected Areas: A Contested Solution (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Scientists and campaigners agree that government action is necessary to protect ocean health and carbon storage capacity. One proposed solution involves expanding the number of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). These conservation zones restrict human activities in specific ocean areas, often banning fishing and bottom trawling. MPAs have shown positive results in restoring ecosystems and increasing fish populations, leading to greater carbon storage. However, some argue that MPAs are ineffective due to the migratory nature of fish and changing ocean conditions.
Rethinking Subsidies and Consumer Awareness
Advocates for sustainable fishing practices also recommend redirecting subsidies towards more environmentally friendly fishing methods that minimize fuel consumption. Despite calls for a reduction in subsidies that encourage overfishing, international agreements on this issue have been unsuccessful. Ultimately, tackling consumer ignorance about the ocean’s role as a climate sink is crucial. We need to recognize the immense impact of our seafood choices on the delicate balance of the ocean ecosystem and its ability to mitigate climate change.
A Race Against the Storm: Quang Ngai Fishermen Return to Shore (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
October 25, 2024
(source: vietnam.vn – by Pioneer’s newspaper)
A Precautionary Retreat
Hundreds of fishing boats from Quang Ngai, operating in the waters of Hoang Sa and Truong Sa, abruptly ended their fishing trips. Threatened by the approaching storm No. 6, they hastily returned to port, prioritizing the safety of their vessels and crew. Quang Ngai’s border guards actively supported the fishermen, assisting them in securing their boats and finding safe harbor.
Selling Fish and Seeking Shelter
Upon receiving warnings about the storm’s unpredictable path, many ship owners and captains in Quang Ngai made the difficult decision to bring their vessels ashore. On October 25th, hundreds of fishing boats, primarily operating in the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa waters, returned to the ports of Tinh Ky, Tinh Hoa, and Sa Ky. Despite unfinished trips and insufficient catches, the fishermen prioritized safety, quickly selling their seafood and seeking shelter from the approaching storm.
A Forced Return and Financial Strain (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Mr. Nguyen Van Leo, captain of fishing boat QNg 90055 TS, cut short his trip in the Truong Sa fishing grounds, returning to Sa port after just 15 days. Due to the shortened trip, his catch was limited, amounting to only 3 tons. Even with the fish fetching a price of 35,000 VND/kg, Mr. Leo faced financial hardship, unable to cover his operational costs. He decided to anchor his boat in a safe location and wait for the storm to pass before resuming his fishing trip.
Facing the Storm’s Impact
The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting predicted that Quang Ngai province would experience the direct impact of storm No. 6. In response, authorities implemented measures to ensure public safety. Travel outside the province was restricted, with officials only permitted to travel when absolutely necessary. The Provincial Steering Committee for Disaster Prevention and Control mobilized its members to coordinate and inspect preparedness efforts across various units and localities.
A Concerted Effort to Secure Safety
The Quang Ngai Provincial Border Guard Command responded proactively, deploying personnel to support fishermen in securing their boats and seeking safe shelter. As of October 10th, over 4,163 boats and 32,997 fishermen had anchored ashore, with approximately 320 boats and 3,873 fishermen remaining at sea. The Border Guard Command continued to maintain communication with those vessels still operating, providing updates about the storm’s direction and urging them to find safe harbor.
A Call for Vigilance (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Major Nguyen Huu Phuoc, Deputy Head of Sa Ky Port Border Gate Station, underscored the importance of vigilance. With 137 vessels still operating at sea in his area, his team contacted each one, informing them of the storm’s direction and encouraging them to seek shelter. The constant communication and guidance aimed to ensure the safety of all fishermen and their vessels amidst the impending storm.
Expanding UK Naval Presence in the Pacific (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
October 26, 2024
(source: scmp.com – by Bloomberg)
UK to Increase Pacific Operations
The United Kingdom plans to significantly boost its naval presence in the Pacific Ocean. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced a series of initiatives, including increased joint fishing patrols, to demonstrate the UK’s commitment to supporting US-led efforts to counter China’s growing maritime influence. The UK’s renewed focus on the Pacific region follows a broader trend of countries like the US and France, which also have territories in the South Pacific, bolstering their naval presence.
Increased Patrols and Partnerships
Starmer will announce the expanded Royal Navy operations during his visit to Samoa for the Commonwealth heads of government meeting. These operations will involve joint patrols with Pacific Island nations to address natural disasters and combat illegal fishing activities. Illegal fishing has become a major concern in the region, with Chinese fishing fleets, often accompanied by government security vessels, expanding their fishing operations further afield.
Strengthening Regional Ties (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
The UK’s increased engagement in the Pacific reflects its efforts to rebuild historical ties with the region following Brexit. The UK will become the first European nation to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership this year, further solidifying its presence in the region. To foster economic collaboration, the UK and Australia are launching a “Pacific Business Club” to support companies bidding for multilateral development bank contracts. Additionally, the UK and New Zealand have announced a partnership to promote renewable energy projects in the Pacific.
Responding to China’s Maritime Rise
The UK’s bolstering of its naval presence in the Indian and Pacific Oceans coincides with the rise of China’s maritime power. The UK’s recent commissioning of two aircraft carriers, equipped with advanced F-35 fighter jets, is a testament to its commitment to contributing to regional security. The HMS Prince of Wales, one of these carriers, will embark on a Pacific tour next year and make a port call at Singapore.
Challenges and Limitations (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Despite its efforts, the UK’s maritime capabilities are not as extensive as they once were. While the Royal Navy possesses two aircraft carriers, they have faced technical challenges and the overall number of surface ships remains limited compared to the US Navy. The UK currently deploys only two patrol vessels full-time in the Pacific, including the HMS Tamar, which provided security during the Commonwealth meeting.
Strategic Importance of the Pacific
The Pacific Islands have emerged as a crucial arena for competition between China and the US. The region’s strategic location near key shipping lanes and communication cables makes it attractive for both countries seeking to expand their influence. China’s growing maritime presence and its investment in infrastructure development have raised concerns among US allies, leading to a renewed focus on countering Chinese influence.
UK’s Commitment to the Pacific (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
Starmer emphasized the importance of the Pacific region to the UK’s prosperity and security, reiterating his commitment to contributing to a safer and fairer world. The UK’s expanded naval presence and strategic partnerships signal its intention to play a more active role in the Pacific and address the growing challenges posed by China’s maritime ambitions.
Sri Lankan Navy Detentions Spark Outrage in Tamil Nadu (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
October 27, 2024
(source: socialnews.xyz – by GOPI)
On Sunday, October 27th, the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended 12 Tamil Nadu fishermen, accusing them of violating the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) while fishing near Neduntheevu. Early in the morning, the fishermen were detained and transported to a Sri Lankan naval camp for interrogation. Furthermore, the Sri Lankan Navy confiscated their mechanized boat and fishing equipment.
Mounting Tensions and Concerns
This incident is just the latest in a series of arrests by the Sri Lankan Navy. Since June 16th, the navy has detained a total of 425 Tamil Nadu fishermen and impounded 58 boats. Consequently, approximately 110 fishermen currently remain in Sri Lankan custody. On October 23rd, the arrest of 16 Tamil fishermen from Rameswaram sparked widespread protests in Tamil Nadu.
Calls for Action and Intervention (Fishing News 20241021-20241027)
In response to these repeated incidents, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wrote to Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, urging him to intervene and secure the release of the detained fishermen and their boats. K.M. Palaniappan, a prominent fishermen’s leader from Tamil Nadu, expressed his frustration, stating that the arrest of 12 Tamil fishermen on Sunday was “highly deplorable.” He demanded that the Union government take action to ensure the safety of fishermen in the high seas, as the fear of arrest is leading to widespread poverty and hardship.
Political Outcry and A Tragic Incident
Political parties in Tamil Nadu, including the DMK, AIADMK, and PMK, have repeatedly raised concerns about the challenges Tamil fishermen face due to actions by the Sri Lankan Navy. On August 1st, 2023, a tragic incident occurred when a Sri Lankan naval boat allegedly rammed into a fishing boat, causing it to capsize. Malaisamy (59) drowned, while another fisherman, Ramachandran (64), went missing. Two other fishermen on the boat, Mookiah (51) and Muthu Muniandi (52), were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy but were later handed over to Indian authorities.