Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20250127-20250202

Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20250127-20250202
Top Fishing Gadgets – Fishing News Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20250127-20250202

Fishing News Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20250127-20250202


Fishing News 20250127-20250202
Fishing News 20250127-20250202

Latest Fishing News 20250127-20250202 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.

Team USA Prepares for Global Ice Fishing Showdown (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

January 27, 2025

(source: hubcitytimes.com – by ???)

Becoming a top-level athlete demands a lot of dedication. It also requires determination and consistent practice. Eighteen of America’s best ice anglers gathered to compete. They fished on nine inches of ice. The event took place over five three-hour heats. Tamarack Lake, Michigan, hosted the 2025 US National Ice Fishing Championship. They all had one goal, to join the USA Ice Fishing Team.

World Championship Location

The World Ice Fishing Championship (WIFC) is coming soon. It will happen near Grand Rapids, Michigan. Tamarack Lake in Lakeview, Michigan is the chosen site. The event is set for February 12th to 16th. The week includes practice and competition. Three practice days are planned before the competition days. This will occur from Wednesday to Friday. The main competition will take place on Saturday and Sunday.

A Global Gathering of Anglers

The championship will showcase top anglers from many nations. Sweden, Finland, and Norway will participate. Also, Latvia, Estonia, and Poland will be present. Lithuania, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan are all sending anglers too. Of course, the United States of America will compete as the host country. The competition is expected to be fiercely competitive.

The Competitive Structure

Each team includes five anglers and a reserve. Athletes from each nation compete against everyone in one zone. They will compete in one of five different zones. The competition will span two days. At the USNIFC, anglers from seven states tried to win the six team spots. Weather was a significant factor in this event.

Weather Challenges for Anglers

The National Championship had varying weather conditions. Anglers had to adapt throughout the event. Friday’s first two heats began with temperatures in the 40s. Saturday’s competition saw a huge temperature drop. The mercury fell almost 25 degrees in 24 hours. Furthermore, strong winds greeted the competitors. Sunday’s final heat saw bundled-up men. The windchill dipped below zero. Still, the harsh weather didn’t stop the fighting spirit of the anglers.

Coach’s Confidence

Myron Gilbert, the US Ice Fishing Team head coach, spoke about his team. “I knew these guys would give their best,” he said. He was confident they would persevere no matter the conditions. His aim was to put them in the best positions to succeed. He believed the best would excel under pressure. He showed his praise for all the competitors in the competition.

Experienced Anglers Secure Team Spots

The top six USNIFC finishers had previous World Championship experience. Chad Schaub is a favorite from Michigan. He has won bronze and silver team medals before. He also won an individual bronze back in 2013. Two more Michigan anglers made the team, too. Kieth Kniffen and Zack George will also join the team. Kniffen did well in Mongolia last year.

Strengthened Team Roster

The US team has more experienced anglers. Jeff Kelm from Wisconsin and Kevin Kowalski from Minnesota also joined. Also, Nate Winters from Wisconsin is the team reserve. This mix of talent makes the team very strong. The team also includes Captain Nick Schertz, Coach Myron Gilbert, and Delegate Joe Martinez. The team is poised for the international competition.

Innovative Catch and Release Method

The “no kill” method used KeepNet software. The method allowed anglers to stay within the fish limit. They could also score hundreds of fish during each three-hour heat. This shows how sustainable practices are used in the competition. This method ensured the well-being of the fish.

Bait and Equipment Support

Knutson’s Live Bait, a local company, supplied bait. They are the official bait sponsor. The Clam Corp. provided team outwear and shelters. The shelters will be used for the weigh-in areas. This support ensures the anglers have what they need. Both sponsors are helping the team with key support.

China’s Distant-Water Fishing: A Tale of Provincial Ambition (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

January 28, 2025

(source: asiatimes.com – by Hang Zhou)

China has lately become more aware of its distant-water fishing (DWF) impacts. These impacts include environmental concerns and socio-economic issues. International advocacy groups also raised concerns about the reputational damage. DWF means fishing far beyond a country’s own territory. It extends into other nations’ economic zones and international waters.

The Province-Driven Surge

Was China’s DWF growth simply part of Beijing’s plan? Did it aim to develop a “blue economy” and become a maritime power? A new perspective suggests a different picture. Chinese provinces also play a key role in driving this growth. Therefore, we must explore the provincial role and the challenges China will face. This is crucial if Beijing wants to control this sector.

Uneven Provincial Interest (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

Coastal provinces in China show different levels of interest. Some provinces push for DWF expansion more than others. Between 2010 and 2020, some provinces led this growth. Liaoning, Shandong, Zhejiang, Fujian stood out. Also, the China National Agricultural Development Group played a big role. They contributed disproportionately to the country’s DWF activities. The number of vessels, horsepower, and fish catch went up significantly.

Key Players in the Fleet

By 2020, these major entities possessed the bulk of China’s DWF fleet. They owned 84% of all Chinese DWF vessels. Their combined horsepower reached 86.6% of the nation’s total. Furthermore, their catch volume reached 87% of the total. Their catch value represented 86.8% of the total value in China’s DWF. Clearly, this shows the large impact of few provinces in this industry.

Fujian’s Pursuit of Dominance

Fujian excelled at maximizing its returns from the DWF fleet. It did not own the biggest fleet; Zhejiang did. Nor was it the most powerful, as Shandong led in that aspect. However, Fujian led in total DWF catch volume. It also led in average catch per vessel. It came second only to Shandong in catch value per vessel. This demonstrates Fujian’s impressive efficiency and success.

Fujian’s Proactive Approach (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

Initially, Fujian was not a test province for marine economy. However, they rapidly formed a group led by the provincial governor. They then reapplied to be included and succeeded in 2011. This provided them with more power to develop their marine economy. Furthermore, smaller groups were created to help coordinate efforts. This helped ensure the growth of the DWF industry.

Seizing Opportunities

Fujian’s marine economy got national attention. They were able to rapidly expand their DWF industry. In 2013, the local government encouraged a new era for the DWF. They wanted vessels to “sail to the Western Ocean”. Local companies used this opportunity to gain advantages. They sought government support to compete with other provinces.

Incentives for Growth

In 2014, the government promoted specific policy incentives for DWF. The policies covered the entire industry’s value chain. This includes vessel updates and access to fishing grounds. It also includes business operations and human resources. The launch of the Maritime Silk Road in 2015 helped further Fujian’s DWF expansion. These measures led to an extraction-driven DWF growth.

Rapid Expansion in Fujian (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

From 2012 to 2015, Fujian saw huge growth in its DWF sector. The number of vessels increased by 78%. The catch volume also increased by 50%. These figures exceeded national goals considerably. This illustrates the massive impact of Fujian’s specific policy measures.

Beijing’s Attempt to Re-Centralize Control

After 2016, Beijing began tightening control over China’s DWF fleet. This happened amid increased international scrutiny. However, it took time for these changes to have effect in the provinces. Fujian continued with its incentives until 2018. They were still facilitating the growth of the DWF industry.

Concrete Policies and Actions

Toward the end of the 2010s, Beijing started more concrete centralized policies. They aimed to rein in the growth of DWF. A blacklist was created for vessels and captains involved in IUU. A compliance ranking for DWF companies was also established. China’s DWF regulations were also revised.

Shifting Focus in Fujian (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

While seemingly adhering to Beijing’s policy, Fujian changed focus. They sought to create a national DWF base on its coast. This form of infrastructure was designed to reorganize the spaces where land and sea meet. The goal was to speed up the turnover of DWF catches. They also wanted to maximize its value.

Information Gathering Challenges

Beijing gives power to local governments to boost the economy. But sometimes, local interests can push for policies causing excessive growth. This can lead to negative consequences for China’s foreign policy. Fujian’s policies show commitment to a DWF growth model. Their focus is on maximizing outputs. These policies do not pay attention to possible environmental impact.

Ignoring Environmental Concerns

A report on Fujian’s marine development fund praises the DWF shift. It says it has social and environmental benefits. These include more DWF workers and less offshore over-fishing. However, the report lacks concern over the impact on overcapacity. It also omits environmental concerns and foreign policy impacts. These omissions suggest that local interests are put first.

Initial Steps Towards Control (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

In 2017, Beijing began recentralizing control over provincial activism. Monitoring DWF, though, poses a challenge for Beijing. The environmental impacts happen outside China. Therefore, Chinese citizens do not feel these impacts directly. This makes the monitoring of this sector incredibly complicated.

Looking Ahead: Data and Monitoring

China’s 2023 White Paper focuses on improving information gathering for DWF. This will include fleet capacities and operations. They want to build a DWF data collection framework. They are also expanding the national fisheries observer program. Clearly, Beijing is working to tackle these information challenges.

Cooperation and Compliance

Despite tensions, China will engage in dialogue with international NGOs. They want to discuss sustainable fisheries and IUU. They are acknowledging the role of international monitoring. This is helping address data gathering problems. This shows a shift towards more international collaboration on DWF.

The Compliance-Based Approach (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

Strengthening information gathering and verifying violations is now critical. This happened since China replaced fuel subsidies. They now offer international compliance capacity enhancement subsidies. This new subsidy is linked to DWF companies compliance scores. Violations lead to lower scores. Consequently, the subsidy amount decreases for offending companies.

The Importance of Transparency

Prompt data on IUU breaches is crucial. This is important for the new subsidy plan. NGOs need to continue their monitoring and transparency efforts. Cooperation with international and regional groups is essential. This is key for ensuring China’s DWF sector adheres to the law.

Canada Reverses Course on Elver Fishery Reforms (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

January 29, 2025

(source: nationalfisherman.com – by Chris Chase)

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) in Canada has canceled its plans. They had proposed major changes to the elver fishery. This decision comes after strong opposition from the industry. The DFO initially announced the proposed changes in December 2024. They faced significant pushback from stakeholders.

Controversial Policy Proposal

Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier had introduced a new policy. This policy would give 50 percent of the total allowable catch (TAC) to First Nations fishers. Furthermore, 28 percent would go to a new pilot program. This project would alter how quotas were distributed. This shift aimed to address the problems in the fishery.

Background of the Fishery’s Issues

These changes followed years of problems in the elver fishery. The fishery faced chaos. Minister Lebouthillier closed the fishery in 2024. They also shut it down early in 2023. These closures happened because of rampant poaching. Also, the media reported instances of violence linked to the fishery. These events prompted the need for action.

Industry Outcry Over Proposed Changes (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

The proposed changes were unpopular with existing elver businesses. These license holders were worried about losing quota. Commercial license holder Stanley King spoke about the changes. He said they would give his business to his employees. He described the situation as a “slap in the face.” He also called it “anti-business.”

Quota Losses and Worker Concerns

Licensees in the fishery were set to lose a lot of their quota. Some could have lost between 60 and 90 percent of their quotas. This also meant no compensation from the government. Many workers who were set to benefit from the new quotas, felt differently. They would rather remain employees. They wanted to avoid additional complications and competition.

Informational Session Canceled

The DFO had planned an information session for January 21st. However, this meeting was canceled. It was canceled because of the negative feedback. The harsh reactions made it impossible to proceed. This demonstrates the strong resistance to the reform plans. The department had to reconsider its position.

DFO Abandons the Reform Effort (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

Now, the DFO has abandoned the new reforms. They have completely given up on the proposal. The DFO communication director confirmed this to the media. He said the 2025 elver season will not include the pilot program. The program would have expanded commercial access to the fishery. This shows a full reversal from the original plan.

Fishery Members Welcome the Reversal

The news has been welcomed by many members of the fishery. This includes several elver fishers. Darren Johnson from Neptune Canada expressed relief. His company would have lost a large portion of its quota. He said he would rather continue fishing for Neptune. He did not want to have to start a new business.

Challenges for the 2025 Season

The DFO must figure out how to run the fishery for 2025. They had two failed years in a row. The Canadian elver season begins on March 1st. This means the department has a narrow window for a solution. The pressure is on the DFO to get it right this time around.

Indian Fishermen Return Home After Sri Lankan Detention (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

January 30, 2025

(source: kalingatv.com – by KalingaTV Bureau)

Six Indian fishermen recently returned to Chennai, Tamil Nadu. They had been detained in Sri Lanka. Fisheries Department officials received them upon arrival. This event is the latest in ongoing disputes. These disputes involve Indian fishermen and Sri Lankan authorities.

Troubling Incident in the Jaffna Sea

This release followed a serious incident. Two Indian fishermen from Karaikal were hurt. The Sri Lankan Navy allegedly opened fire on them. The Rameswaram Fisherman Association (RFA) reported on the incident. They stated that two boats carrying thirteen fishermen went near Parutthura beach. The Sri Lankan Navy then intercepted the vessels.

Escalation and Injuries

The fishermen attempted to flee towards Indian waters. Two Sri Lankan officers remained on their boat. This action led to the Sri Lankan patrol opening fire. Two fishermen sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital. The remaining crew members were turned over to the local police. The Sri Lankan Department of Aquatic Resources denied arresting the fishermen.

India Lodges Strong Protest (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

India strongly protested the Sri Lankan Navy’s firing. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned the Sri Lankan Acting High Commissioner. They wanted to formally lodge a protest. Such incidents have become all too common. This further highlights the tense situation in the region.

Recurring Confrontations and Detentions

Disputes over fishing rights in the Palk Strait are not new. They have led to frequent detentions of Indian fishermen. The Indian central and Tamil Nadu governments are working hard. They are trying to secure the release of these fishermen. Diplomatic efforts are always in progress.

Recent Repatriations of Fishermen

Just recently, 41 Indian fishermen came back to Chennai. The Sri Lankan Navy had detained them. Thirty-five of them were from Ramanathapuram. They had been arrested near Katchatheevu. Their release happened through diplomatic actions. They were caught for alleged cross-border fishing.

More Fishermen Released in January (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

Also, on January 16th, 15 Indian fishermen were freed and returned. They had been detained in 2024. This group also included eight fishermen arrested near Mannar Island. Twelve others came from Nagapattinam. They had been detained earlier in November. These repatriations showcase ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Repatriation from Bangladesh

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) also helped 95 Indian fishermen come home. They had been detained in Bangladesh. This happened on January 5th. Four fishing boats were also repatriated with them. These efforts showcase international collaboration. The efforts were done to ensure the return of the fishermen.

Urgent Call for a Lasting Resolution

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin urged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to act fast. He wants diplomatic measures to free the detained fishermen and boats. He stressed the need for lasting solutions. These actions should prevent future conflicts. This will ensure the safety and livelihoods of the fishermen.

Peru Intensifies Fight Against Illegal Fishing (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

January 31, 2025

(source: dialogo-americas.com – by Nelza Oliveira/Diálogo)

Peru has taken a strong stance against illegal fishing by Chinese vessels. They ended 2024 by authorizing the Peruvian Armed Forces to use force. This action allows them to combat illicit maritime activities. This decision highlights the country’s commitment to protecting its marine resources.

Year of Turmoil for Peruvian Fishing

2024 was difficult for Peru’s fishing industry. Artisanal fishermen called it “the worst year” for the sector. The Andrés Bello Foundation also confirmed the crisis in a report. The National Society of Artisanal Fisheries of Peru (SONAPESCAL) reported large losses. These losses came from a drop in squid exports. Illegal fishing by Chinese fleets caused this economic downturn.

Squid Fisheries Under Threat

The giant squid fishery is critical to Peru’s local economy. It is the country’s largest artisanal fishery. Alfonso Miranda, from Calamasur, also spoke about the issue. He said the situation is the worst in 25 years. Processing plants have been paralyzed. This has led to a large drop in exports. Around 20,000 fishermen and their families are affected.

China’s Massive Fishing Fleet (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

China operates the world’s largest distant-water fishing fleet. Experts estimate they have over 17,000 vessels. Approximately 400 to 600 vessels constantly fish near the exclusive economic zones of South American countries. They target squid near Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Argentina, and Uruguay. These ships often enter territorial waters illegally, challenging authorities and damaging ecosystems.

New Measures to Combat Illegal Fishing

Peru’s Congress approved a new initiative in October. This measure allows the National Maritime Authority to use force against illegal fishing. The authority operates under the Peruvian Armed Forces. The initiative is meant to protect life, society, and the State. This is all in accordance with Peru’s laws.

Enhancing Detection Capabilities

Peruvian Congresswoman Adriana Tudela Gutiérrez commented on the initiative. She stated that it aims to combat illegal fishing. They will also promote the detection of foreign vessels. These vessels will be detected in Peruvian waters without proper authorization. This reinforces Peru’s commitment to enforcing maritime laws.

Satellite Tracking System for Foreign Vessels (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

The Peruvian government passed a new decree. This decree establishes measures against IUU fishing. It mandates a new control system. This system will use satellite positioning signals for foreign vessels. The Peruvian Navy will operate this system. The SISESAT tracking system will be required on foreign-flagged vessels. It will be done through the Foreign Trade Single Window (VUCE).

Integrated System for Foreign Trade

VUCE is an integrated electronic system. It allows those involved in trade and transportation to exchange information. This information is needed for the entry or exit of goods. This system is also key for tracking transport from and to Peruvian territory. It ensures all activities are documented and tracked properly.

Regulations for Foreign Vessels

The regulation aims to establish specific conditions. Foreign vessels fishing outside Peru’s 200 miles must comply. They must follow these rules when entering Peruvian waters. This includes for repairs, crew changes, or for provisions. Minister of Production Sergio González emphasized these conditions.

Patrol Boats Enhance Maritime Security (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

PRODUCE and the Peruvian Navy signed an agreement. They plan to acquire two new patrol boats. These boats will enhance maritime security. They will also improve the ability to inspect vessels. The new patrol boats come with advanced technology. They are designed for surveillance and control of maritime traffic. They will protect fishing resources and fight drug trafficking.

International Support for Peru’s Efforts

Global Fishing Watch praised Peru’s coordinated efforts. They believe that these measures contribute to better monitoring. They will also help conserve marine resources. This international support underscores the importance of combating IUU fishing. These collective actions are crucial for protecting the world’s oceans.

Tragic Incident Off Jeju Coast: Two Fishing Boats Wrecked (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

February 01, 2025

(source: IANS – by ???)

On a somber Saturday, a devastating incident unfolded off the coast of Jeju Island in South Korea. Two fishing vessels, each carrying crews of 7 and 8, respectively, encountered severe trouble. These boats ran aground on a rocky outcrop, leading to a frantic emergency response. The coast guard quickly mobilized rescue operations after receiving the initial distress calls. Unfortunately, the incident resulted in two confirmed fatalities and two crew members still unaccounted for.

Swift Response and Initial Rescue Efforts

Authorities received reports of the stranded vessels around 9:24 am. They quickly launched a rescue operation to assist the 15 crew members. Despite the challenging conditions, rescuers managed to pull 13 people from the wreckage. Sadly, they found two of the rescued in critical condition. They rushed the individuals to a local hospital, but both were later pronounced dead. Meanwhile, the search continues for the two missing crew members who remain lost at sea.

Details Emerge Regarding Fatalities and Survivors

The captain of the larger vessel, a South Korean man in his fifties, went into cardiac arrest. Rescuers transported him to a nearby medical facility. Sadly, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he did not recover. Furthermore, a search team discovered an Indonesian crew member along the coast, hours after the initial accident. This individual also suffered a cardiac arrest, later succumbing to his condition. Among the rescued, another individual lost consciousness. However, reports indicate no serious health issues.

Weather and Nationality of Crew Members (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

The majority of the remaining survivors are currently dealing with hypothermia. Fortunately, their cases are considered to be minor. One coast guard rescuer sustained a hand injury. This occurred when powerful waves swept him against a rock. The captains of both boats are South Korean, but the remaining crew are foreign nationals. Specifically, the crew included members from both Vietnam and Indonesia. These details highlight the diverse backgrounds of those affected.

Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations

Rescue operations continue relentlessly in the area surrounding the accident. Despite ongoing efforts, bad weather and exceptionally large waves complicate the search. Authorities deployed numerous resources, including nine Navy patrol ships, a warship, and six civilian vessels. Approximately 100 personnel are also actively engaged in coastal search operations. They hope to locate the two missing individuals as soon as possible.

Government’s Urgent Directive

Earlier that day, acting President Choi Sang-mok reacted swiftly to the unfolding crisis. He directed officials to employ all available resources to aid in the crew rescue. Furthermore, he emphasized the crucial need to guarantee the safety of the rescue workers. He specifically mentioned the dangerous sea conditions to which the responders are exposed.

The Legacy on the Laxá: Female Guides Fear for Wild Salmon (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

February 02, 2025

(source: theguardian.com – by ???)

Fishing News 20250127-20250202

For seven generations, the Hermóðsdóttir family has fished the Laxá River. Andrea Ósk, a young woman, carries on this tradition. Moreover, she and other women now work as fishing guides. In the past, only men held this position, but things are changing. These women are breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Iceland is well known for gender equality; however, it took some time to reach fishing.

A New Generation of Guides Takes the Reins

Andrea, along with her sister Alexandra, and friends Arndís and Áslaug, are pioneers. They are the first female guides on their river in Iceland. These women represent a new era of fishing. Their age shows a fresh perspective for the future. Now, they guide anglers on their beloved Laxá River. They are passionate about sharing the experience with others.

The Shadow of Farmed Salmon Threatens Livelihoods

Sadly, a significant event occurred, threatening the wild salmon population. Thousands of farmed salmon escaped a nearby fish farm last year. This escape presents a serious threat to native species. This situation now makes Andrea question her family’s future. Her deep connection to this job makes the issue more painful. This tradition might not survive for the next generation of their family.

A Heartbreaking Reality for Nature and the Guides (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

“It’s truly heartbreaking,” Andrea says, her voice full of worry. She sees the potential devastation that can happen to nature. This not only affects her livelihood but also the environment. She fears the loss of her connection with her family’s history. Their job is deeply linked to the health of the salmon. This escape is a major blow to the entire ecosystem.

Documentary Film “Strengur” Captures the Struggle

Gagga Jónsdóttir’s documentary, “Strengur,” will showcase these women’s lives. The film was shot partly during the salmon farm escape. It explores their relationships with each other and fishing itself. Furthermore, it shows the love of their fathers, for this sport, also. This powerful film captures this major turning point in their lives.

The Perils of Farmed Salmon: A Threat to the Wild

Farmed salmon poses many risks to wild populations. They often carry diseases and parasites, such as sea lice. When interbreeding occurs, the results are very damaging to the wild salmon. The offspring mature too quickly, disrupting natural reproduction cycles. Thus, these factors endanger the overall salmon population.

Government Inaction Fuels the Guides’ Frustration

The women regularly catch farmed salmon that have interbred with the wild variety. Andrea cannot understand why open-pen sea farms aren’t banned. “How is the Icelandic government not doing more?” she wonders. She questions why they do not learn from Norway’s mistakes. Many rivers in Norway suffered greatly from escaped farmed salmon.

Extinction Looms Without Action

“If nothing changes, Atlantic wild salmon will go extinct,” Andrea predicts. She emphasizes it is a question of when, not if. She believes consumers should avoid eating farmed salmon. She only eats salmon farmed in land tanks. Andrea hopes to guide anglers all her life and pass it down to future generations. She knows there are people in Iceland fighting for change, and she has hope in it.

Roots in Fishing: A Deep Connection to the River (Fishing News 20250127-20250202)

Fishing has always been a large part of Andrea’s life. Her father showed her how to fish for salmon when she was only eight years old. She loves standing by the river and casting her rod. It gives her peace, that is rooted in her family’s history. She attributes the historical lack of women in fishing to outdated gender roles. She hopes her film will encourage more women to try fishing.

The Filmmaker’s Perspective: A Call for Change

Gagga Jónsdóttir, the filmmaker, initially focused on the young women’s stories. But she soon became invested in the wild salmon issue. She saw firsthand the devastating impact of the salmon farm escape. Gagga also believes open sea pens must be banned. She believes that this is a global issue, not only an Icelandic one. She sees hope in the actions of the young women.

Hope for the Future: A System in Transition

“The world is changing,” she said, “and the old systems are falling.” Gagga feels that this is also part of their new journey. The film captures this shift, inspiring hope for change. The women’s passion for the wild salmon gives her optimism. They break the mold of male dominance in the fishing industry. They lead the way for future generations.


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