Fishing News Reel in the Action: Latest Fishing News 20260216-20260222
Latest Fishing News 20260216-20260222 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
Foreign Fishers Caught off Australia Thanks to Community Tip-Off (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
February 16, 2026
(source: marinelink.com – by ???)
Operation BROADSTAFF Delivers Quick Results
The Australian Border Force (ABF) has already achieved early success under its new Operation BROADSTAFF. Over the weekend, officers intercepted two foreign fishing vessels in northern waters. Both boats were stopped before any illegal fishing activity could take place. Authorities caught the vessels in northern Queensland and the Torres Strait region. Importantly, the swift action prevented potential damage to Australian marine resources. This operation clearly demonstrates the ABF’s commitment to protecting national waters.
A New Mission to Combat Illegal Fishing
The ABF launched Operation BROADSTAFF just last week with a clear purpose. The mission specifically aims to deter, detect, and disrupt illegal foreign fishing. It targets unauthorized vessels operating in Australian waters. Furthermore, the operation covers a vast stretch of coastline across northern Australia. Officers now patrol these remote areas more frequently than before. As a result, foreign fishing crews face a much higher risk of detection and interception.
Two Vessels Intercepted in Queensland Waters (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
On 14 and 15 February 2026, ABF officers carried out intelligence-led patrols. During these patrols, Maritime Border Command (MBC) staff worked closely with partner agencies. Together, they intercepted two suspected illegal foreign fishing vessels. Officers located the first vessel near Hawkesbury Island in Queensland waters. Meanwhile, they spotted the second boat close to Thursday Island. Both interceptions happened swiftly and without any major complications.
Boarding Reveals Fishing Preparations
ABF officers promptly boarded and inspected both vessels after the interceptions. Their thorough examination quickly revealed an important detail. Neither crew had actually started fishing in Australian waters yet. However, the evidence on board strongly suggested that illegal activity was imminent. The vessels clearly carried supplies intended for unauthorized fishing operations. Consequently, the officers took immediate action to prevent any further progress.
Large Quantities of Salt and Equipment Seized
On the first vessel, officers discovered 175 kilograms of salt along with fishing equipment. The second boat carried an even larger haul of 900 kilograms of salt. Fishermen typically use large quantities of salt to preserve their catch at sea. Additionally, both vessels held various types of fishing gear ready for use. After consulting with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), the ABF took decisive steps. Officers carried out a legislative forfeiture and seized all salt and equipment from both boats.
Foreign Vessels Escorted Out of Australian Waters (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Following the seizure of goods, the ABF escorted both vessels out of Australian territory. Neither crew faced criminal charges since fishing had not yet begun. Nevertheless, the confiscation of their supplies sent a strong message. Foreign operators now understand that Australian authorities act before illegal fishing even starts. Moreover, the loss of expensive equipment serves as a significant financial deterrent. Future attempts to fish illegally will likely carry even greater consequences.
A Community Tip-Off Made the Difference
One of the intercepted vessels first attracted attention thanks to a local resident. A member of the public spotted the suspicious boat and quickly reported it. They contacted the ABF Thursday Island District Office with the information. This community tip-off played a crucial role in triggering the response. Without that alert, the vessel might have gone undetected for much longer. Therefore, the interception highlights the vital importance of public vigilance.
Strong Community Ties Strengthen Border Security (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Maritime Border Command Acting Deputy Commander Brooke Dewar praised the local community’s involvement. She acknowledged the close engagement between residents and ABF officers on Thursday Island. According to the Acting Deputy Commander, local knowledge remains essential in the Torres Strait. Community members effectively provide extra eyes and ears across their Sea Country. In addition, ABF officers continue to engage with local fishers and residents regularly. This two-way communication greatly strengthens shared awareness of suspicious maritime activity.
Remote Communities Play a Key Role
Acting Deputy Commander Dewar also highlighted the strong relationship between the ABF and remote communities. She described the weekend’s activities as a prime example of effective cooperation. These partnerships allow authorities to cover vast and hard-to-reach areas more thoroughly. Local residents understand their waters better than anyone else. As a result, their observations often prove invaluable for maritime security operations. The ABF greatly values this ongoing collaboration with northern communities.
Officers Working Around the Clock to Protect Sea Country
The Acting Deputy Commander emphasized the dedication of ABF officers working across the region. These men and women operate on the water, in the air, and within local communities every day. Their primary goal focuses on protecting northern Australia and safeguarding Sea Country. Furthermore, they remain vigilant against all forms of maritime crime beyond just illegal fishing. Each patrol strengthens the security presence across these remote northern waters. Consequently, foreign operators face increasing difficulty avoiding detection.
Operation BROADSTAFF Continues with More Patrols Ahead (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Operation BROADSTAFF remains fully active with no end date in sight. Authorities have planned further patrols across northern Queensland and the Torres Strait. These upcoming activities will build on the momentum from the weekend’s success. Officers intend to maintain constant pressure on illegal foreign fishing operations. Meanwhile, intelligence gathering continues to guide future interception efforts. The ABF expects even more results as the operation expands its reach.
Thirteen Vessels Intercepted Since January
The latest interceptions bring the total to an impressive number for 2026. Since 1 January, the ABF has now intercepted 13 foreign fishing vessels. All of these interceptions took place in northern Queensland and the Torres Strait. This rising figure reflects the growing effectiveness of Australian maritime patrols. It also suggests that illegal foreign fishing remains a persistent threat in these waters. However, the ABF clearly shows no signs of easing its enforcement efforts anytime soon.
Rise and Shine Picks Up Norwegian Documentary ‘In Cod We Trust’ Before Thessaloniki World Premiere (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
February 17, 2026
(source: variety.com – by Leo Barraclough)
International Sales Company Secures Norwegian Fishing Documentary
International sales outfit Rise and Shine has picked up the Norwegian documentary “In Cod We Trust.” Director Guro Bjerk helmed the film, which explores life in a remote Arctic fishing village. The Berlin-based company will handle worldwide sales for the project. Furthermore, the acquisition comes at a perfect time for the documentary’s festival journey. The film now heads to its world premiere with strong international backing behind it.
World Premiere Set for Thessaloniki Documentary Festival
“In Cod We Trust” will make its debut at the Thessaloniki Documentary Film Festival. The documentary earned a coveted spot in the Newcomer Competition section. This selection places it among the most promising new works at the festival. Moreover, Thessaloniki remains one of Europe’s most respected platforms for documentary cinema. Competing there gives the film significant visibility among international buyers and audiences. As a result, the premiere could open many doors for wider distribution.
Life in Båtsfjord: Where Cod Matters More Than God
The documentary takes viewers to Båtsfjord, a small fishing port in northern Norway. According to director Bjerk, this is a place where “cod is more important than God.” Residents there still hold onto values that most people have already lost. She describes a community built on safety, trust, curiosity, and freedom. Additionally, the locals remain remarkably open-minded despite their remote location. The village offers a rare glimpse into a way of life that feels almost forgotten elsewhere.
A Warm Portrait of a Cold and Remote Place (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Bjerk describes her documentary as both a village portrait and a deeper reflection. The film meditates on themes of home and belonging in a meaningful way. It also reveals a surprising truth about life in extreme northern climates. According to the director, the coldest places on Earth often hold the warmest people. Humor plays a central role in daily life throughout the community. Consequently, audiences can expect a film filled with genuine laughter and heartfelt moments.
Global Potential for a Story About Fishing Communities
Anja Dziersk, co-founder of Rise and Shine, sees broad international appeal in the documentary. She points out that fishing industries worldwide face very similar challenges today. Overfishing and climate change threaten coastal communities across many different countries. Therefore, the themes in “In Cod We Trust” resonate far beyond Norway’s borders. Dziersk believes the film’s universal message will connect with audiences globally. Its blend of serious subject matter and uplifting humor strengthens that potential even further.
Humor and Heart Give the Film Wide Appeal (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Dziersk specifically highlights the beautiful and uplifting humor of the Båtsfjord residents. She feels this warmth could help the film speak to audiences in many countries. People everywhere can relate to communities facing economic and environmental uncertainty. However, the lighthearted spirit of the villagers keeps the story from feeling heavy or bleak. Instead, viewers get an inspiring look at resilience through laughter and togetherness. This combination of humor and substance makes the documentary stand out in a crowded market.
A Project Born from Contagious Enthusiasm
Dziersk first encountered the project back in 2022 at a pitching event. Director Bjerk presented her vision with remarkable energy and passion at that session. The enthusiasm proved contagious and immediately drew Dziersk into the project. She felt compelled to join the journey from that very first moment. What truly captivated her was the warmth and unique setting of the remote fishing village. In addition, the humor woven through everyday life in Båtsfjord sealed the deal completely.
Norwegian and Finnish Teams Join Forces
Benedikte Bredesen at Norway’s F(X) Productions serves as the film’s producer. Meanwhile, Finnish company Wacky Tie Films joined as co-producer on the project. Producer Pasi Hakkio leads the Finnish contribution to the documentary. This Nordic collaboration brings together talent from two strong filmmaking traditions. Furthermore, the partnership reflects a growing trend of cross-border cooperation in Scandinavian cinema. Both production companies bring valuable experience in documentary storytelling to the table.
A Path to the Oscars Through Thessaloniki (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
The Thessaloniki premiere carries significance beyond festival exposure alone. Winning the Newcomer Competition could open an extraordinary door for the documentary. The top prize in that section qualifies the film for Oscar consideration. Specifically, the winner becomes eligible to compete for the best documentary Academy Award. This possibility adds tremendous stakes to the Thessaloniki screening. As a result, “In Cod We Trust” could potentially travel from a small Arctic fishing village all the way to Hollywood’s biggest stage.
A Fly-Fisher’s Novel Dives Into Ecology and the Passage of Time (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
February 18, 2026
(source: centralmaine.com – by Lisa Hiton)
Wading Into a Slower World
Fly-fishing demands patience and stillness. The modern world, however, keeps accelerating around those who practice it. As a result, the landscapes where fly-fishing thrives are slowly disappearing. Writers like Paul Guernsey understand this tension deeply. His work gives voice to anglers who must adapt or risk losing everything they love.
A New Novel Casts Its Line
Guernsey’s fourth novel, “Rolling Back the River,” follows a world in gradual erosion. His protagonist, Vincent Mapp, serves as a seasoned guide through fading territory. Like Guernsey himself, Vincent is an expert angler with a singular mission. He travels to Argentina to catch a fish native to Maine. Along the way, he encounters adventure, grief, and the unexpected turns of a literary life.
Humor, Grief, and Field-Guide Precision
Guernsey weaves humor and sorrow together with remarkable care. He writes with the accuracy of a naturalist’s field guide. Furthermore, he takes readers on a journey through both Argentina and time itself. Each chapter unrolls the river of his imagination with steady skill. Together, these elements create an adventure that is both personal and universal.
From Brook Trout Streams to Fly-Fishing (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Guernsey’s father introduced him to fishing on small Connecticut streams. Those early trips left a lasting mark on his relationship with brook trout. For a long time, however, he did not fly-fish specifically. Eventually, a friend introduced him to the practice and lent him the necessary gear. After moving to Maine, fly-fishing became his primary passion outside of writing.
An Editor’s Perspective Opens New Doors
Guernsey later became the first associate editor of Fly Rod & Reel Magazine. That role opened a wide range of new opportunities for him. It connected him more deeply with the fly-fishing community. Additionally, it gave his writing a sharper and more informed edge. His editorial experience clearly shapes the precision readers find throughout his fiction.
Maps, Mazes, and the Architecture of Story (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
The novel opens with a chapter called “Maps and Mazes,” which immediately sets the tone. Vincent creates his own personal maps of the places where he fishes. He is also a professor at a small environmental college, making him a deeply read man. Consequently, he associates every experience with something from literature. At different points, he even imagines himself as Don Quixote on a quixotic quest.
An Absurd Grail Quest in Argentina
Vincent’s mission is, on the surface, almost comically ambitious. He travels to Argentina to catch a salmon originally transplanted from Maine. This quest provides the frame around which the larger story unfolds. Nevertheless, the novel is about much more than catching a fish. It explores identity, loss, and the meaning we attach to the natural world.
Native Species and Ecological Wounds
Vincent cares deeply about where fish belong and how they arrived there. Guernsey opens the novel with a quote from Aldo Leopold, the father of American conservation. Leopold wrote that an ecological education means living in a world of wounds. Vincent, similarly, moves through a landscape that others do not see as broken. He notices what has changed because he knows what once existed.
Introduced Species and Hidden Disruption (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Humans have relocated fish species across continents to suit their recreational preferences. Brown trout and rainbow trout now dominate waters where cutthroat trout once thrived. Yet most anglers do not realize they are fishing for introduced species. Because the disruption happens underwater, it stays out of plain sight. Nevertheless, it fundamentally alters entire ecosystems in ways that matter enormously.
Awareness Over Nostalgia
Guernsey does not claim to have all the answers about ecological change. Instead, he argues for awareness and honest appreciation of what humans have altered. Anglers, he believes, should at least recognize that intervention has taken place. This recognition does not ruin the experience. On the contrary, it deepens one’s respect for the natural world and its complexity.
The New Bros of Fly-Fishing (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
In one memorable scene, Vincent and his companion face an interruption on the water. A newer generation of fly-fishers arrives, talking loudly about Teslas and expensive gear. This contrast highlights the generational shift happening within the sport. However, Guernsey does not entirely fault the newcomers. He acknowledges that change is natural in any sport or profession across generations.
Grumpy Old Men and Bigger Fish
Part of the tension in the scene comes from two older anglers protecting their secret stream. They treat the location as almost sacred, refusing even to name it to each other. Their irritation is real, but it is also somewhat self-aware and gently comic. Importantly, it is the newcomers who catch the bigger fish in the end. This outcome invites readers to question their assumptions about tradition and progress.
Rolling Back the River
The novel’s title raises a question that lingers long after the final page. If we cannot roll back the river, where exactly do we go from here? Guernsey believes the answer lies in accepting where one stands. Vincent understands that mourning the past wastes the time we have in the present. Therefore, he chooses to fish the stretch of river in front of him and make the most of it.
Moving Forward Without Looking Back (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Guernsey argues strongly that clinging to the past is a form of paralysis. He compares it to trying to row a boat upstream — exhausting and ultimately futile. Instead, one must step out at the right moment and fish the spot at hand. This philosophy applies to writing, to conservation, and to life itself. In short, the best response to an imperfect world is active, present engagement with it.
A Novel for Our Changing Times
Ultimately, “Rolling Back the River” speaks to anyone who has watched something they love slowly change. Guernsey delivers this message with warmth, humor, and remarkable ecological insight. He invites readers to grieve what is lost while still casting their lines forward. This balance between acceptance and awareness gives the novel its lasting emotional power. Readers will finish it feeling both wiser about the natural world and more at peace with their place in it.
Turning the Tide: How West Africa Is Reasserting Its Food Sovereignty Through Aquaculture (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
February 19, 2026
(source: globalissues.org – by Sidi Tiémoko Touré (abidjan, ivory coast))
A Region Rich in Resources, Yet Dependent on Imports
West Africa holds some of the world’s most abundant natural resources. Nevertheless, the region spends over $2 billion every year importing aquatic foods. This situation clearly exposes a deep flaw in the global food system. Côte d’Ivoire alone accounts for nearly half of that massive import bill. Such dependence is both costly and entirely avoidable.
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Fish plays a central role in West African culture and daily nutrition. For generations, communities across the region have relied on fish as their primary source of animal protein. It supplies roughly two-thirds of all animal protein consumed locally. Popular dishes like Senegal‘s thieboudienne and Ivory Coast’s poisson braisé reflect this deep cultural bond. Fish is, without question, a dietary cornerstone.
Growing Threats Are Undermining the Fishing Sector
In recent years, serious challenges have put enormous pressure on local fishing industries. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing costs the region more than $9 billion annually. This represents one of the highest rates of such activity anywhere in the world. Additionally, climate change increasingly disrupts marine ecosystems and fish stocks. Together, these threats significantly reduce the sector’s ability to meet local demand.
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As a result, fish consumption has dropped noticeably across the region. Between 2008 and 2025, average consumption fell from over 13 kg per person per year to just above 11.5 kg. This decline happened despite fish remaining highly popular among consumers. Clearly, the supply side is failing to keep pace with demand. Without action, this gap will only widen further.
Aquaculture Offers a Powerful Path to Food Sovereignty (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
West African nations have a real opportunity to change this situation decisively. By investing in domestic aquaculture, countries can dramatically reduce their dependence on imports. Furthermore, a thriving local sector would create much-needed jobs, especially for young people. It would also improve nutrition and food security across entire communities. In short, homegrown aquaculture unlocks the full potential of Africa’s blue economy.
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The principle is straightforward: invest where the resources already exist. West Africa possesses coastlines, rivers, lakes, and lagoons perfectly suited to aquaculture development. Moreover, the region has a large and growing youth population ready to enter the workforce. Developing this sector therefore addresses multiple challenges at once. It simultaneously tackles unemployment, food insecurity, and import dependency.
Côte d’Ivoire Steps Up as a Regional Leader
Côte d’Ivoire is actively leading this transformation for the entire West African region. The country has launched an ambitious policy framework specifically targeting aquaculture growth. Importantly, this framework extends its benefits beyond coastal areas to inland communities as well. Other nations in the region are watching closely and learning from this example. Côte d’Ivoire’s leadership sends a strong signal that change is possible.
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At the heart of this effort sits the $25.6 million ProDeCAP project. This initiative focuses on improving marine, lagoon, and inland fisheries across the country. It also aims to increase broodstock capacity and develop commercial seed supply systems. Additionally, the project works to strengthen the local fish feed industry. Ultimately, it targets an annual production boost of 35,000 tons of farmed fish.
Flagship Programs Drive Real Change on the Ground (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
The ProDeCAP project is set to benefit around 700,000 people directly and indirectly. Notably, women make up approximately half of those beneficiaries. This strong focus on gender inclusion makes the program especially impactful. Alongside ProDeCAP, the Strategic Program for Aquaculture Transformation (PSTACI) advances four key pillars. These pillars address job creation, innovation, governance, and national supply capacity.
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PSTACI specifically targets young people and rural communities for employment opportunities. Furthermore, it pilots demonstration projects designed to attract private investment into the sector. Strengthening governance ensures that growth happens sustainably and responsibly. Building national capacity for fishery product supply closes critical gaps in the value chain. Together, these two programs create a comprehensive and mutually reinforcing strategy.
Research and Innovation Accelerate the Sector’s Modernization
Beyond policy programs, Côte d’Ivoire is also investing $3 million in a new Aquaculture Research Innovation Hub. The global research centre WorldFish will lead this pioneering facility. It will concentrate on improving fish feed, genetics, and fish health management. Consequently, this hub will fill important research gaps that currently slow sector modernization. Innovation and science will therefore drive the next phase of growth.
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WorldFish brings five decades of expertise in small-scale fisheries and aquaculture to this effort. In 2023 alone, the organization developed 70 new innovations for the sector. It also trained nearly 120,000 fishers, farmers, extension officers, and community workers that year. Moreover, it facilitated the production of over 436,000 tonnes of farmed fish using improved technologies. This proven track record makes WorldFish an invaluable partner for West Africa.
Building a Resilient and Complete Value Chain (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
Strong policies and cutting-edge research are essential, but they are not sufficient alone. The entire value chain must also function efficiently from start to finish. This means developing reliable supplies of young fish and quality feed. It also requires investment in processing infrastructure and effective sales platforms. Without these links, even the best production efforts will fall short.
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Private sector partnerships play a vital role in building this complete value chain. Businesses bring investment, market knowledge, and operational capacity that governments cannot provide alone. Furthermore, each stage of the value chain creates new jobs and economic opportunities. Women in particular find diverse roles in fish processing and trade. Therefore, developing the full value chain multiplies the sector’s social and economic benefits.
A Vision That Can Feed and Empower an Entire Region
There is an old saying that teaching someone to fish feeds them for a lifetime. However, transforming an entire aquaculture sector achieves far more than that. It feeds people, creates livelihoods, and builds long-term economic resilience. Additionally, it strengthens national food security in the face of global uncertainty. This is the scale of change that West Africa is now pursuing.
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West Africa already possesses the natural resources and the market demand for a thriving industry. Strategic investments, smart policies, and strong partnerships are now converging to make this vision real. The momentum is building rapidly across the region. Consequently, the opportunity for others to join this blue economy wave has never been greater. The tide is turning, and West Africa is leading the way.
Sri Lankan Navy Arrests 25 Karaikal Fishermen at Maritime Border (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
February 20, 2026
(source: newsonair.gov.in – by News On AIR)
Early Morning Arrest Shocks Fishing Community
The Sri Lankan Navy arrested twenty-five fishermen from Karaikal early this morning. The navy intercepted the fishermen close to the International Maritime Boundary Line. Naval patrol units were actively monitoring the area at the time. Furthermore, authorities seized two mechanised fishing boats during the operation. The incident has sent shockwaves through coastal fishing communities.
Incident Unfolds Near Kaarainagar Sea Area
The arrest took place in the waters near the Kaarainagar sea area. Naval officers on patrol claimed the fishermen had crossed the maritime boundary. However, the exact position of the boats remains a point of dispute. Consequently, the fishermen now face questioning by naval authorities. Local sources confirmed the details shortly after the incident occurred.
Authorities Transfer Detainees to Naval Camp (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
After the arrest, naval personnel began transferring the fishermen to Kankesanthurai. This naval camp in Sri Lanka serves as a processing centre for such detentions. Officials are now conducting a formal inquiry into the boundary crossing. Meanwhile, the seized boats remain under naval custody. The transfer process was already underway by mid-morning, according to sources.
Fishing Communities Demand Swift Action
The detention has alarmed fishing communities across the Karaikal region. Community leaders are deeply worried about the welfare of the arrested men. Therefore, representatives have already contacted local authorities for urgent intervention. They are pressing officials to negotiate the fishermen’s release as quickly as possible. Additionally, community groups are calling for stronger diplomatic efforts to prevent similar incidents.
A Recurring Problem Along the Maritime Border
Incidents like this one are not new along this stretch of the maritime boundary. Indian fishermen have faced repeated arrests in these contested waters over the years. Nevertheless, fishing families continue to work close to the boundary line due to rich fishing grounds. As a result, tensions between naval patrols and local fishermen continue to rise. Both governments must therefore work together to find a lasting solution for these coastal communities.
Europe Faces Pressure to Challenge China’s Relentless Squid Fishing in the Pacific (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
February 21, 2026
(source: euractiv.com – by Maria Simon Arboleas)
A Growing Crisis Beneath the Waves
Environmental groups and Latin American fishing communities are raising serious concerns. They want the European Union to take firm action against China’s aggressive squid fishing operations. These operations are taking place in the south-east Pacific Ocean. As a result, fish populations in the region are dropping at an alarming rate. The situation demands urgent attention from international regulators.
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The South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation, known as SPRFMO, plays a key role here. The EU holds membership in this important body. In early March, SPRFMO members are gathering in Panama for a crucial meeting. Delegates will discuss stronger measures against illegal and unregulated fishing. Consequently, all eyes are on the outcome of these talks.
Meet the Red Devil: A Giant Under Threat
The Humboldt squid sits at the centre of this controversy. Fishers also call it the “red devil” due to its aggressive nature. This remarkable creature can reach 2.5 metres in length and weigh up to 50 kilos. Furthermore, it ranks among the most heavily harvested squid species on the planet. China’s long-distance fishing fleet, together with Peru and Chile, dominates its capture.
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A fresh report from the Environmental Justice Foundation sheds new light on Chinese activities in these waters. Regional fishing organisations describe the south-east Pacific as poorly monitored. They direct much of their criticism squarely at Beijing. Moreover, they argue that weak oversight allows unchecked exploitation of these rich fishing grounds. The situation is therefore becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Europe’s Hidden Dependence on Pacific Squid
European fishing vessels have only a minor presence in the south-east Pacific. Nevertheless, the EU imports large quantities of squid caught in that region. Most of this squid enters Europe through Spain. However, tracing these imports is not straightforward. The international trade classification system does not assign squid its own separate code, which makes tracking difficult.
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This lack of transparency creates a significant problem for policymakers. Consequently, it is hard to measure how much squid Europe actually sources from Chinese fleets. Despite this challenge, demand within Europe remains consistently high. Therefore, the EU carries a degree of indirect responsibility for what happens in those distant waters. Addressing this link is an important step toward meaningful reform.
Human Rights Violations at Sea
The Environmental Justice Foundation has also exposed troubling conditions aboard Chinese fishing vessels. The organisation interviewed crew members working in the south-east Pacific. Shockingly, half of those workers reported experiencing physical abuse. Life at sea on these vessels is exceptionally harsh and isolating. Workers often have no safe way to report what they endure.
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Dominic Thomson, who led the EJF investigation, explains the core problem clearly. Chinese long-distance vessels regularly stay at sea for more than a year at a time. As a result, crew members have virtually no opportunity to speak out. They cannot easily contact authorities or outside organisations. This isolation, therefore, allows mistreatment to continue without consequence.
An Expanding Fleet and Shrinking Stocks
Overfishing is the other major concern driving this debate. The EJF reports that China has doubled its squid fishing fleet in the region over the past decade. By 2024, that fleet had grown to 528 vessels. Such rapid expansion puts enormous pressure on squid populations. Experts warn that stocks could soon reach a critical tipping point.
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Calamasur, a lobby group representing fishers from Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru, shares these fears. The organisation describes China’s fishing pace as nothing short of “voracious.” According to their data, Chinese vessels have harvested nearly five million tonnes of squid from the area in just over ten years. This level of extraction is simply not sustainable. Consequently, local fishing communities are suffering serious economic harm.
Time to Move from Words to Action
Alfonso Miranda, president of Calamasur, is pushing for concrete and measurable steps. He calls on the EU and its partners to move beyond empty statements. At the Panama talks, he wants SPRFMO members to finally agree on binding fishing quotas. These quotas would apply specifically to international waters where China’s fleet operates. Without them, Miranda argues, the fishery has no real protection.
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Miranda uses a powerful image to describe the current management failures. He compares the situation to “driving a Ferrari blindfolded.” In other words, the world’s largest squid fishery is running without proper controls. He is therefore urging EU negotiators to take a strong and decisive stance in Panama. Similarly, other fishing nations are calling on Europe to use its influence and act boldly.
The EU’s Moment to Lead
The upcoming Panama meeting represents a real opportunity for the EU. Europe can demonstrate genuine leadership on sustainable fisheries management. By supporting quota agreements and tougher oversight, the EU can make a difference. Additionally, it can push for better protection of workers aboard distant-water fishing vessels. Taking these steps would send a clear signal to Beijing and the wider world.
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The pressure from NGOs and Latin American communities is mounting fast. Time is running short before fish populations suffer irreversible damage. Furthermore, ignoring the human rights dimension would undermine Europe’s values on the global stage. The EU must therefore translate its commitments into real political action. The people and ecosystems of the south-east Pacific are counting on it.
Constitutional Case Against Gulper Shark Fishing Refiled in High Court (Fishing News 20260216-20260222)
February 22, 2026
(source: edition.mv – by Malika Shahid)
Activists Return to Court Over Shark Fishing Decision
Environmental activists have refiled a constitutional case at the Maldives High Court. The case challenges the government’s decision to allow gulper shark fishing. Humaidha Abdul Ghafoor and Mohamed Seeneen initially filed the petition in December. They aim to stop the gulper shark fishery from moving forward. Furthermore, this marks a renewed push to reverse the controversial regulation.
Government Opens the Door to Gulper Shark Fishing
The government introduced a new regulation in October last year. This regulation allows the fishing of gulper sharks under specific conditions. Previously, a firm ban on shark fishing was in place. However, authorities decided to lift restrictions on this particular species. As a result, environmental groups quickly raised serious concerns about the decision.
Court Twice Refused to Accept the Original Petition
The High Court’s Registrar first refused to accept the petition. Activists then appealed that decision in hopes of moving forward. Unfortunately, the court rejected the petition a second time. The court argued that the fishery plan did not form part of an established law. Despite these setbacks, Humaidha refiled the case on 2 February. A final decision on acceptance has not yet been made.
Humaidha Has a Record of Fighting Environmental Battles
Humaidha is no stranger to environmental legal action. She previously filed a case to stop the reclamation of Gulhifalhu. Therefore, her involvement in this shark fishing case follows a clear pattern. She consistently uses legal tools to protect the Maldivian environment. Consequently, her efforts attract significant attention from both activists and policymakers.
Strict Rules Govern How Vessels Must Operate
The regulation sets tight rules for any approved fishing activity. Authorities may grant licenses to a maximum of 40 vessels. Additionally, operators must obtain a separate license to run a gulper shark fishing business. The government also limits the fishing season to up to seven months per year. Furthermore, officials will announce the specific permitted periods in advance.
Fishermen Must Bring Sharks to Harbor Completely Intact
The regulation requires fishermen to bring sharks to harbor whole. No one may remove any parts from a shark while still at sea. Moreover, processing the catch before reaching harbor is strictly prohibited. Fishing activities must also stay outside atoll perimeters at all times. Inland operations are therefore completely forbidden under the new rules.
Organizations Unite Against the Shark Fishing Regulation
Several organizations have stepped up to oppose the fishery. They signed a joint petition to express their strong disapproval. The petition makes a clear and important argument. Keeping a ban on shark fishing protects the Maldives’ environmental reputation. Additionally, it strengthens the country’s position in international climate discussions. Supporters believe the ban sends a powerful message to the global community.
