Illegal fishing in Bahamian waters

[Steven]

I am looking for information on illegal fishing in Bahamian waters by foreign nationals (i.e. boats that do not clear customs). I have documented quite a few Dominican boats on the Southern banks and recreational vessels from Florida in the Western Bahamas. I am especially interested in information regarding long-liners in Northeastern Bahamian waters. Are there any fishermen or other experts out there with this knowledge?


This is for a research paper documenting threats to Bahamian marine resources. All information will be kept confidential.


Very much appreciated,


Steven Lutz


Research Associate
Coral & Climate Change Research Facility
Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami
Email: stevenlutzmail@yahoo.com, slutz@rsmas.miami.edu

[vharrison]

Steven, your best source for accurate information would be the custom's authorities. I know of boats (not longliners) from Florida that clear custom's in one port and end up fishing out of another.

[HALF-A-HAMIAN]

Steven, we appreciate your work and research and hope that if you document illegal fishing activities anywhere, you are reporting them to the proper authorities. The Bahamas has long been lacking in the resources to patrol so great an area, but are trying to gain on the problem. They need the help, however, of law abiding citizens reporting when they see something suspect going on, so they can get into a position to apprehend, or at least observe the perps!

[Stone Malone]

we have had longliners visit the waters east of Elbow at different times over the years. get ahold of Robert on Seagull - look at seagullcottages dot com - he can give you all the history

[Steven]

Thanks Stone Malone,
I have sent him a message and hope to hear back soon. Please let me know if you think of any other leads.
Thanks agiain,
-Steven

Research Associate
Coral & Climate Change Research Facility
Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, University of Miami
Email: stevenlutzmail@yahoo.com, slutz@rsmas.miami.edu