Fishing News Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20250217-20250223
Latest Fishing News 20250217-20250223 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
Alleged Fishing Offences Lead to Arrest (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
February 17, 2025
(source: irishexaminer.com – by Liz Dunphy)
Authorities have arrested a man in Cork. The arrest followed the detention of a large vessel. Greenpeace labeled the vessel a “monster trawler”. Allegedly, the ship committed fishing offences in Irish waters. European Union fisheries agency detected the infractions.
German Vessel Detained in Irish Port
The Helen Mary, registered in Germany, is now detained. This vessel, measuring 117 meters, sits in Tivoli dock. Previously, the ship faced multiple allegations of fishing breaches. These breaches occurred internationally. The detention took place on Monday after a report surfaced. This report alleged fishery breaches within the Port of Cork.
Gardaí Investigate Fishing Violations
Gardaí are actively investigating the alleged breaches. According to a Garda statement, they arrested a man. He is in his 40s and is being held. He is being detained under a 2006 Act. The Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 applies. Currently, the investigation continues to unfold.
Supertrawler’s History of Controversy (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
This factory trawler can process catches onboard. In 2019, Scottish authorities detained the ship. They suspected fishery offences at the time. Further, in 2020, Greenpeace activists intervened. Activists boarded the supertrawler. They stopped it from fishing in a protected area. This area was east of Scotland.
EU Agency Detects Suspected Infringements
The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) commented. They stated that on Sunday, officers found infringements. Officers onboard a European Fisheries Control Agency boat noticed. They suspected the infringements involved European fisheries law. The suspected violations occurred in the Irish EEZ. The Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is impacted.
Joint Operation Leads to Vessel Inspection
The EFCA conducted the operation. They are a European Union agency. Their mission is to protect EU fisheries policy. The Joint Deployment Plan offered a legal basis. This plan sets relationships for joint inspection. It applies to all assets of involved Member States. This plan also applies to assets of EFCA.
Defective Equipment and Maritime Law (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Sources suggest a defective pilot ladder played a role. This pilot ladder may have been involved. It potentially contributed to the infringement of maritime law. These ladders allow people to board ships at sea. Inspectors must use them to board. Strict regulations govern this equipment. People need to safely board and disembark. Unsafe ladders caused deaths in 2023.
Greenpeace Condemns Destructive Vessels
Greenpeace lists the Helen Mary among ‘monster boats’. They consider these vessels destructive and oversized. They operate under European flags or management. The ship, built in 1996, has a gross tonnage of 7278. Furthermore, it has a fish-holding capacity of 6,900m3. Greenpeace alleges the vessel contributes to overfishing globally.
Call for Sustainable Fisheries Management
Paul Musiol from Greenpeace EU commented. “Helen Mary is a huge supertrawler.” Musiol noted its massive size and freezer capabilities. He emphasized supertrawlers catch large quantities of fish. Musiol says their methods affect vulnerable ecosystems. They also affect smaller fishers. He calls for better enforcement of fisheries laws. This enforcement must protect marine areas. Governments must protect ocean ecosystems. This ensures sustainable fisheries management.
UN Report: Fishing Trawlers Cause Cable Damage (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
February 18, 2025
(source: taipeitimes.com – by AFP, GENEVA, Switzerland)
Recent concerns arose regarding undersea cables. Sabotage was initially suspected in the Baltic Sea. Now, a UN official clarifies the primary cause. Fishing trawlers, not spies, are mostly responsible for damage. This revelation shifts the focus from alleged sabotage.
Accusations Against Russian Vessels
Western officials previously blamed Russian vessels. They accused them of sabotaging vital cables. These cables are important for communications. Similar incidents occurred in the Baltic Sea. Experts suspected “hybrid warfare” acts. They believe these acts target Western nations.
Importance of Resilient Infrastructure
The International Telecommunications Union acknowledged the growing concern. Deputy Secretary-General Tomas Lamanauskas spoke on the matter. He emphasized cable resiliency’s rising importance. This reflects our dependency on this infrastructure. Underwater cables are now vital.
Giants Take Over Cable Management (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Large telecom operators once managed cable laying. Recently, Internet giants have taken over. They strive to handle ballooning data flows. Submarine cables are the backbone of global communications. About 99% of global Internet traffic relies on them. Even satellite data uses underwater cables.
Global Network of Undersea Cables
Around 1.4 million kilometers of cables lie on the ocean floor. They enable trade, finance, public services. Also, they support digital health and education worldwide. Damage to these essential cables occurs frequently. Outages average 150 to 200 incidents each year. This equates to about three incidents per week.
Fishing and Anchoring as Primary Culprits
While sabotage grabs headlines, the reality differs. Fishing and anchoring cause 80% of cable damage. The International Cable Protection Committee confirms this. Natural hazards, aging, and equipment failures also contribute. Every cable cut has become more noticeable.
Vulnerability of the Undersea Network (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Although vast, the undersea cable network only has 500 cables. Cutting or damaging even a few has a big impact. Major incidents highlight this vulnerability. A Red Sea cable cut impacted traffic between Asia and Europe. A volcanic eruption severed Tonga‘s connection.
Impact on West African Economies
Lamanauskas highlighted a West African cable cut. It significantly impacted economies in the region. Nigeria sought ITU assistance after that incident. They wanted to find solutions to prevent future disruptions. This prompted collaborative efforts to enhance resilience.
UN Pushes for International Cooperation
The UN urges increased global cooperation. They aim to bolster cable resilience in this sector. The ITU and ICPC formed a group of specialists. They are tasked with developing effective solutions. Their initial meeting will take place in Nigeria.
Strategies for Enhancing Cable Security
There are several strategies to improve cable security. Increased cable protection is essential. Faster repairs are needed after damage occurs. Furthermore, laying more cables in isolated areas helps. This enables data to be redirected during cuts. Strict rules must prevent fishing trawlers from causing damage.
Australian Angler Lands Record Cobia (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
February 19, 2025
(source: x – by y)
An Australian angler caught an enormous cobia. The fish weighed over 175 pounds. This is the largest cobia ever caught on rod and reel. He almost lost the fish. However, he did not listen to his captain’s advice.
Captain’s Doubts Turn to Elation
Captain Drew Clowes expressed his surprise. He thought it was a stingray initially. Clowes even told the angler to break it off. This happened several times during the fight. Clowes chuckled, happy that he was wrong.
Record-Breaking Weight Verified
The fish weighed 79.6 kg, verified on certified scales. This happened in front of an official weighmaster. The Perth Game Fishing Club oversaw the process. It exceeds the current IGFA record by roughly 40 pounds. This confirms the exceptional size of the fish.
Young Angler on a Birthday Charter (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Koby Duncan, an 18-year-old angler caught the fish. He works as a commercial fisherman. The catch occurred during a birthday charter. He used a Z-Man HeadlockZ jighead with a Jerk ShadZ. The team jigged on a reef pinnacle.
Uncommon Species in Southern Waters
The area is located 12 nautical miles off Perth. Specifically, it is located on the south side of Rottnest Island. Cobia are uncommon in this fishery. However, the primary targets are yellowtail kingfish. Pink snapper and West Australian dhufish are targets too.
Light Tackle Triumphs Over a Monster
Duncan used an Ocean’s Legacy Inshore Casting rod. Australians rate rods using a PE system. His spinning outfit was PE3. This equates to a 6000-size setup. It used 33-pound-test braid. The light tackle added to the challenge.
Intense Battle in the Depths (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
After clearing weeds, the fish made strong runs. Clowes was unsure what Duncan hooked. Clowes described the fish as heavy. He stated that the fish felt like “four bags of concrete”. Duncan persisted for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, the fish surprisingly surfaced.
Mistaken Identity Leads to Amazement
At first, Clowes mistook the head for a shark’s. Subsequently, the tail surfaced, baffling the captain. After that, Clowes realized its true identity. The fish made a run along the boat’s side. This allowed them to see its incredible size.
Encouragement Amidst a Grueling Fight
Clowes cautioned Duncan to take it easy. He acknowledged the strain on the gear. Duncan grabbed the spool, straining the rod. He told him that he had to flatline off the spool. Clowes feared the rod might break.
A Commercial Fisherman’s Strength (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Duncan’s strength prevailed despite the challenge. He is a commercial fisherman from Jurien Bay. The angler proved to be strong. He demonstrated incredible resilience. He was exhausted, but he did not give up.
Jubilation Upon Landing the Cobia
The mate successfully gaffed the fish. Jubilation erupted among the crew. They recognized the fish’s significance. Everyone helped haul the massive cobia onboard. Clowes admired the team’s collective effort.
Measurements Confirm a Record Breaker
On deck, the fish measured 203 cm long. It shrunk slightly to 197 cm later. Its girth was 104 cm. The fish crushed a 40-year-old record. The previous record was from Shark Bay, Australia. This catch represents a fish of a lifetime.
Leeuwin Current’s Influence (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Cobia are rare this far south in Australia. Clowes attributes the catch to the Leeuwin Current. This current brings warm water south. It enhances the presence of pelagic species. Strong currents boost fishing success.
Future Plans for the Record Fish
The fish is currently frozen whole. It will remain this way for record verification. Duncan plans to have the cobia mounted. He wants to learn about the fish’s age. Also, Duncan is happy to have the fish be used for scientific research.
Unveiling the Ocean’s Giants (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
February 20, 2025
(source: x – by y)
The world’s waters hold many mysteries. We may never know the absolute biggest fish. Finding the angler who caught it might also be impossible. Expert fishermen often keep their best catches secret. Any list of biggest catches includes these considerations.
Beyond Sportfishing Records: Size Matters
Size alone complicates ranking. A 2-ton whale shark caught by accident comes to mind. Also, a 661-pound stingray researchers tagged in Cambodia in 2023 deserves mention. It surpassed the freshwater record. However, we’ll focus on verified sportfish catches.
Defining the Biggest Fish Ever Caught
This list includes IGFA-certified sportfish. The fish had to be caught with a rod and reel. Furthermore, it had to be caught according to the rules. Anglers submitted these catches for record consideration. We’ll explore the top five ocean giants. Then, we’ll examine the largest freshwater fish ever caught.
IGFA: Guardians of Fishing Records (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
The International Game Fish Association started in 1939. Since then it has been keeping sportfishing records. The IGFA record book is updated constantly. It contains records for nearly every sportfish species. They recognize line-class and catch-and-release records.
The All-Tackle World Record Standard
The most coveted record is the all-tackle world record. It celebrates the heaviest fish caught with a rod. Potential record fish must be weighed on a certified scale. In order to do this, the fish are often killed. This aspect complicates modern record-keeping.
Releasing Giants: A Modern Dilemma
Many anglers now prioritize releasing fish. They prefer this over killing for a record. Captain Chip Michalove exemplifies this mindset. He caught and released a giant hammerhead shark. It could have broken state and world records. However, he did not care about either.
China’s Growing Influence on Argentine Fishing (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
February 21, 2025
(source: dialogo-americas.com – by Lorena Baires/Diálogo)
China’s presence in Argentine waters is increasing. A Chinese company, Fuzhou Hongdong Pelagic Fishery Co., signed a deal. This agreement aims to modernize ports in Santa Cruz province. The company also plans to build a fish processing plant. Logistical support for Chinese fishing vessels is also included.
Concerns About Local Fishing Industries
Milko Schvartzman warns about the impact. He stated that Chinese fishing often harms local industries. He is a researcher on illegal fishing in Latin America. Schvartzman also works with the NGO, Circle of Environmental Policies. He emphasized the potential negative consequences.
A Company with Close Ties to the State
Hongdong Fisheries is a large fishing company in China. It has over 160 vessels in its fleet. It is linked to Poly Group Corp, a state-owned company. This company has direct connections to the Chinese military. Therefore, the agreement raises national security concerns.
Warnings Against Chinese Involvement (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
César Augusto Lerena also expressed his concerns. An expert in South Atlantic fisheries, he understands the region well. Furthermore, he holds the position of president at CESPEL. Lerena specifically warned against depending on China’s help. Additionally, he noted illegal fishing facilitates exploitative labor. Drug trafficking also becomes more prevalent as well.
A History of Illegal Fishing Practices
The agreement began in October 2024. It ended with a signed letter of intent. Hongdong Fisheries has a concerning track record. The company has been involved in illegal fishing. It is accused of operating outside legal boundaries. This behavior should be worrying for everyone.
Potential Dangers to the Argentine Economy
Eduardo Boiero also expressed unease about the deal. He is the president of CAPeCA. He worries about the scope of the agreement. Opening ports to foreign fleets is a concern. It could harm Argentine shipowners and fishers. Competition becomes difficult with subsidized companies.
Subsidies and Unfair Competition (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
The Circle of Environmental Policies highlights Chinese state subsidies. The Chinese government funds vessel construction. They also provide fuel and navigation equipment. Argentine companies cannot compete with these advantages. China seeks control over resources, not just investment.
Argentina as an Illegal Fishing Hub
This deal could turn Argentina into a hub. Illegal fishing and human rights violations would occur. Hongdong Fisheries’ vessels hide their location. Crews also face inhumane conditions. Concerns grow about other Chinese companies involved. Zhoushan Huaxi Fisheries is one of the companies.
Devastating Effects on the Marine Ecosystem
Schvartzman highlighted the negative impact of Chinese fishing. It damages the South Atlantic marine ecosystem. Local economies and employment also suffer. Furthermore, human rights abuses are rampant. Navigation safety is threatened as well.
Increased Surveillance in the Region
Amid the squid fishing season, Chinese vessels increase. Over 500 vessels fish near the EEZ. Most of these vessels are owned by China. The Argentine Armed Forces increased surveillance. They are using patrol aircraft and vessels. They aim to protect their waters.
Japan Confronts Ocean Warming (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
February 22, 2025
(source: japantimes.co.jp – by Joel Tansey)
Climate change is impacting marine ecosystems worldwide. Warming oceans are particularly threatening Japan’s seafood. Pacific saury and seaweed are vulnerable to rising temperatures. Shrimp populations are also suffering the consequences. Japan relies heavily on seafood, thus action is needed.
Impacts on Marine Species
Japan’s coastal waters are seeing significant shifts. Mackerel and anchovy are decreasing in size. Kelp yields off Hokkaido have dropped dramatically. Hybrid pufferfish species are also increasing. This poses a challenge for catching the popular delicacy. The changing ocean landscape threatens biodiversity.
The Urgent Need for Action
Ocean temperatures are rising at an alarming rate. The rate of warming is four times faster now. It has been that way since the late 1980s. Seafood is a vital food source globally. It is also more eco-friendly than land-based proteins. Seaweed can play a role in decarbonization efforts. Researchers in Japan are actively working on solutions.
Aquaculture for Sustainability (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Japanese researchers are undertaking aquaculture projects. These projects aim to enhance sustainability. They also seek to boost production despite climate change. Ikuo Hirono emphasizes the need for sustainable practices. Population growth necessitates increasing animal protein sources. Aquaculture could be a potential solution.
Addressing Aquaculture Emissions
Aquaculture emits less than beef, poultry, and pork. However, the industry still contributes to global emissions. Certain types of aquaculture are less climate-friendly. Shrimp farming produces a significant amount of CO2. Pollution from fish farms poses another environmental concern. Nutrient-rich water can damage ecosystems.
The Thai Fish Project
Hirono spearheads the Thai Fish Project since 2019. The project aims to boost aquaculture sustainability in Thailand. Thailand is a major aquaculture producer. Seafood is a vital food source for Thais. Invasive species are posing a significant challenge. Thus, sustainable solutions are crucial.
Combating Invasive Species (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Thai farms raise tilapia and whiteleg shrimp. Both of these species are native to other regions. Escaped specimens threaten natural ecosystems. Whiteleg shrimp can carry exotic pathogens. It could potentially increase competition with native species. This harms the biodiversity and disrupts the ecosystem.
Native Species Focus
Hirono’s project focuses on native species. Asian seabass and banana shrimp are prioritized. The goal is to improve productivity sustainably. It also aims to limit the impact of infectious diseases. Preservation of the natural environment is essential. The initiative also educates young researchers.
Promising Results in Thailand
The Thai Fish Project has shown encouraging results. Scientists developed a new type of seabass feed. This reduces costs and increases nutrition. This new feed is passing taste tests. Japanese businesses are showing commercial interest. Artificial insemination was achieved for banana shrimp.
Scaling Up Innovative Techniques (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Researchers developed new vaccines for seabass. They found helpful microorganisms for shrimp. The project is now scaling up its techniques. The researchers are also sharing their knowledge with other countries. These techniques are being shared to better benefit others.
Seaweed Under Threat
Climate change threatens seaweed production. Rising water temperatures pose a threat to the seaweed. Ocean acidification is also a factor. Warmer oceans could become nutrient deserts. This would drastically harm seaweed growth.
Land-Based Seaweed Solutions
Seaweed production in Japan has declined drastically. Land-based solutions are being explored. Growing seaweed in tanks allows for controlled conditions. KaisouLab’s project combines two seaweed species. This helps to achieve year-round harvesting and to prevent seaweed from declining.
Sustainable Seaweed Farming
KaisouLab’s method uses biotechnology techniques. It also relies on observations from the natural world. It creates a sustainable system for seaweed cultivation. This method received organic certification in 2023. The technique can be used globally, so it can benefit people around the world.
Overlooked African Fishers (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
February 23, 2025
(source: goodmenproject.com – by Charles Mpaka)
A new analysis reveals a critical oversight in policymaking. African small-scale fishers are being ignored. Yet, they provide crucial stock and nutritional value. This vital role remains largely unrecognized. Policymakers need to address this issue urgently.
Essential Contribution of Small Fisheries
Small, inland fisheries in Africa play a key role. They contribute significantly to the population’s diet. Up to 146 million people benefit from these fisheries. They provide almost a third of their micronutrient needs. These fisheries are more important than other regions’.
Marginalization of Fisherfolk
Many fisherfolk face marginalization. They lack formal rights. This leaves them unable to manage their resources. This absence of rights is detrimental to their livelihoods. It undermines the sustainability of their practices. Policy changes are needed for empowerment.
Scope of the Research (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Researchers examined fisheries in 25 African countries. They spanned North, West, East, and Southern Africa. Small-scale fisheries are typically low-tech. They also tend to be low-capital and labor intensive. These characteristics define them.
Supporting Livelihoods
African small-scale fisheries are globally significant. They provide the second highest contribution to livelihoods. Asia is the only place that is ahead of them. They support around 60 million people. Within Africa, the sector employs 2.6 million women directly.
Threat to Global Development Goals
Overlooking small-scale fisheries endangers global development goals. The authors of the study warn of this risk. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires action. A sustainable future is needed for small-scale fishers. They are a key component of food systems.
International Neglect Has Consequences
Xavier Basurto emphasizes the consequences of neglect. International failure to recognize the contributions of fisheries is devastating. These contributions need to be included in sustainable development policies. The impact affects fishers, communities, and consumers. It also crosses international borders.
Illuminating Hidden Harvests Initiative (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
The research supports the Illuminating Hidden Harvests Initiative. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization led this initiative. Duke University and WorldFish also contributed. The goal is to generate evidence about small-scale fisheries. It is to better inform policy and practice.
Lack of Comprehensive Data
Researchers found a lack of comprehensive data. Accurate data is necessary for measuring the socio-economic contribution. This contribution and the value to food security must be valued. Such data is vital for informed policymaking. Therefore, improvements are necessary.
Collaborative Research Approach
The researchers drew on expertise. Over 800 individuals participated. A technical advisory group helped guide the effort. Experts in fisheries biology, nutrition, and governance supported the project. Together, they developed key estimates.
Global Contributions of Fishers (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
Small-scale fishers provide a significant portion of global catches. They produce around 37 million tonnes globally. This represents 40% of the global fishery catches. They generate nearly US$80 billion in landed value. This comprises 44% of the total.
Women’s Crucial Role
Women play a significant role in the sector. Up to 21 million women are employed. This employment is in pre-harvest, harvest, and post-harvest activities. Another 24 million women are in unpaid activities. Subsistence fishing and processing are examples of this type of employment.
Limited Policy Attention
Despite their contributions, the sector receives limited attention. Researchers say that policy needs to improve. Around two thirds of small-scale fishers lack recognized rights. They cannot participate in management and decision-making processes. These rights are essential for sustainability.
Threat to Fishers’ Survival (Fishing News 20250217-20250223)
The absence of rights poses a threat to fishers. It endangers their culture and way of life. Ecological sustainability is also put at risk. This is especially critical among indigenous peoples. These indigenous people rely heavily on fishing.
Call for Inclusive Policies
Researchers call for policies. These policies should focus on fishers’ contributions. Inaction is no longer justified, says Basurto. Marginalization will worsen if we don’t act. Many countries need to pay more attention. They need to improve management and governance.
Wake-Up Call for Policymakers
Bryson Nkhoma calls the findings a wake-up call. Policymakers need to rethink their strategies. Inclusion of small-scale fisheries is essential. Small-scale fishing contributes to critical Sustainable Development Goals. These Sustainable Development Goals are poverty alleviation and gender equality.