Bahamas Flats Fishing Proposal Creates Alarm

Last Wednesday, the government of the Bahamas released a proposal for new regulations that would change the way anglers, lodges and visitors can participate in fishing-related activities on the flats.   The broad reach of the regulation scope, as well as the limited amount of time allowed for commenting—less than two weeks, has raised a stir among many fishing tourism operators and lodges.  Particularly notable is the language targeting non-Bahamian guides and visiting do-it-yourselfers, as well as any lodges or fishing operations with foreign ownership.

Since the proposal also includes a first-ever license program for flats fishing, and half of those fees would go to a conservation program, parts of the proposal would appear to benefit flats conservation and restoration.  But some lodges and tour operators fear that the real motive behind the proposed legislation is to prohibit foreign involvement in flats fishing enterprises in the Bahamas altogether.  They cite potential problems with enforcement and the fact that the proposal is too loosely written, which might invite selective interpretation of the law.

We will update readers with news regarding the proposal, but you can download and read the proposal in its current form here.  You can also contact the Bahamian Fisheries Ministry with comments on the proposal by emailing them at [email protected] on or before this Friday, June 26.

Both Bonefish on the Brain and Gink & Gasoline have shared perspectives on the proposal and what it may mean for fly anglers who plan to visit the Bahamas.