Pilot Training Course in Pelagic (Deep Sea) Fishing
A Climate-Resilient Marine Spatial Plan will guide the protection and sustainable use of the Virgin Islands’ marine environment. It will define key zones for conservation, fisheries, recreation, and development—supporting climate resilience while enabling a balanced blue economy.
Introduction
Climate change is impacting all of the ecosystems that underpin a healthy nearshore fishery, including mangroves, seagrass beds and coral reefs. Climate change is also resulting in northward migration of certain commercially important species, such as the mahi mahi, into cooler waters.
Development of a pelagic (deep sea) fishery has been identified as one important adaptation measure, however, this transition must be supported by acquisition of specialised vessels and equipment, paired with training in the use of such and pelagic fishing techniques.
The Impact
At first instance, this pilot training course will target 10-12 fishers who would qualify to access the Low-Interest Loan Facility for fishers to invest in pelagic longline vessels so that training can be directly converted into deployed capacity.
The training will be comprehensive, focused on providing the necessary field skills and knowledge to support a viable pelagic fishery and include training on operation of longline vessels, pelagic fishing techniques and equipment, safety at sea, basic business development and management, and marketing.
The Problem
Bleached reefs with no fish
The Solution
Deep sea fishing vessel
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