Submitted by Wil Flack – Tres Pescados Fly Shop
In 2009 The GOB passed the catch and release law for bonefish, permit and tarpon. We were the first country in the world to do so, and thus protected a valuable tourism commodity here in Belize. Along with this law came the sport fishing licenses from Coastal Zone Management. The funds collected from license sales directly impact the enforcement of our fisheries laws.
Almost anywhere in the world you sport fish you need a license, the same is now true in Belize. Daily license run $20BZ per day or $50BZ per week. They can be obtained thru the shop or online at www.coastalzonebelize.org
In next week’s report we’ll talk fly selection and the importance of listening to your guide
This week’s tip:
When taking photos of your bonefish, permit or tarpon please make sure you handle the fish with care. This means keeping it in the water until you’re ready to take your photo, and promptly returning it to the water when finished. The more you handle a fish the more stress you put on that fish. This is when mortality rates increase.
By using common sense and careful release procedures, catch and release fishing is sustainable and can only help our bonefish, permit and tarpon stocks.
Wil Flack is the Owner of Tres Pescados Fly Shop in San Pedro, Belize. Tel: 226-FISH. E-mail: [email protected]
