Abstract

This paper gives an overview of the recreational fishery of Saint Lucia. Sports fishing operators were interviewed and available data was analyzed. Commercial recreational fishing in St Lucia began in the early 1950's and continues to develop. A number of fishing expeditions are held through out the year with the main clientele being tourists. The number of fishing trips per week greatly depends on the availability of clients. There is one major tournament held at the beginning of October. This month is viewed as the peak of the billfish season. Persons from the wider Caribbean, particularly neighboring countries, come to the island specifically for this tournament. The recreational fishery is proving to be of significant economic value to St Lucia. The main species caught during regular informal competition include dolphin, tuna, kingfish, wahoo, barracuda, and small shark. During the major tournament, however, larger fish such as billfish are targeted.\To date accurate records of catch from this fishery have not been kept. Weights of large billfish are estimated since operators are not skilled in measuring large, live fish. Catch and release is practised especially for sharks, barracuda and billfish under 150-200 pounds. The undersized billfish are tagged before being released. Persons involved in this fishery show great willingness to be trained in appropriate data collection and are eager to work in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries on tagging or other related programs.

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