Abstract

Cuba is a hotspot for sportfishing and the industry is likely to grow as tourism to the country continues to increase. This growth presents a valuable opportunity to promote a sustainable and conservation-based sportfishing industry in Cuba. In July 2019 University of Havana’s Marine Research Center, the Cuban Fisheries Research Center, Hemingway International Yacht Club, Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies, and The Ocean Foundation organized a workshop Sportfishing in Cuba: A Sustainable, Conservation-based, Economic Opportunity to discuss conservation-based sportfishing models with Cuban officials and stakeholders such as fishers, industry members, and researchers. The event brought together Cuban fisheries experts and international experts to; Present international and domestic models for sportfishing management in Cuba, Identify the scientific basis needed for sportfishing management in Cuba, and Review models, identify gaps, and sketch a roadmap for future implementation There was consensus on the potential to develop Cuban grown recreational fishing opportunities and policy. As a result, participants are creating Cuba’s first-ever National Sportfishing Working Group. Its objective would be to lead and promote initiatives related to sportfishing in Cuba, such as research, capacity building, environmental education, and sportfishing development.

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