By Gina Bethel

Copyright znsbahamas

The Government reaffirmed its strong support for the Fly Fishing Industry during the 3rd Annual Fly Fishing Industry Guides’ Homecoming, held September 17, 2025 at the Courtyard Marriott, Junkanoo Beach.

In attendance were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, the Hon. Chester Cooper; Minister of Agriculture & Marine Resources, the Hon. Jomo Campbell; Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources, the Hon. Vaughn Miller; and professional guides, and other key stakeholders.

The event was hosted under the theme, ‘Guardians of the Environment.’

During his address, Minister Cooper emphasized the importance of celebrating the achievements of the flats fishing industry and honoring the country’s living legends who paved the way for future generations.

“The truth is, the flats and fly fishing industry has long been the stronghold — the glue, so to speak — that has built and connected our communities, particularly in the Family Islands. For generations, Bahamians have made their living from the sea while learning invaluable life lessons in the process,” he said.

“This evening, we pause to honour and express our deepest gratitude to this distinguished group of trailblazers. Your tenacity, passion, resilience, and grit have not only laid the foundation for today’s guides but continue to inspire us to ensure this industry not only survives but thrives. You truly embody tonight’s theme, ‘Guardians of the Environment.’

He noted that the theme reflected the essential role guides play in protecting the ecosystem: “You spend more time on the flats than anyone else and are among the most knowledgeable and powerful advocates for preserving our environment. You demonstrate daily to visitors from around the globe what it means to respect and protect our natural resources. Your expertise in navigating our pristine flats and your commitment to catch-and-release practices ensure that bonefish, permit, and tarpon populations remain strong and healthy for generations yet to come.”

Minister Cooper highlighted the industry’s significant economic impact, contributing approximately US$141 million annually to the Bahamian economy. These revenues, he said, circulate across communities through lodging, meals, transportation, boat building, guiding, and other entrepreneurial ventures.

“On Andros, for example, fly fishing accounts for over 70% of visitor spending annually,” he noted. “To support this sector, the Ministry has established a dedicated unit with a specific focus on fly fishing.”

The Minister stressed the importance of balancing industry growth with fair and practical regulations, through collaboration with the Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association, guides, lodge and boutique owners, and other stakeholders.

He also commended the leadership of Minister Jomo Campbell, under whose portfolio the industry falls.

Minister Cooper further outlined several initiatives undertaken by the government to support the industry:

Support from Joel and Earnestine Moxey, who champion the industry both locally and abroad.

Roving fly fishing tournaments, a new signature series for the sector. The first was held July 8–13, 2025, in Grand Bahama, with upcoming tournaments scheduled for October in Andros and Eleuthera, and a championship tournament set for October 21–26 in Black Point, Exuma.

Training of new guides through BAMSI: Currently, 28 recruits — the largest cohort to date — are enrolled in training, with graduation set for March 2026.

Integration into tourism marketing through Bahamas.com, industry publications, and sustainable tourism initiatives, with a focus on the Family Islands.

Financial and entrepreneurial support via the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC), the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC), and the Ministry of Finance, which has introduced incentives and pledged increased support.

Minister Cooper underscored that the government’s vision is for Bahamians to be the primary beneficiaries of the industry:

“This industry is for Bahamians. It leverages our flats — a God-given resource — and provides an opportunity for Bahamians to build wealth, strengthen our tourism product, and contribute to the wider economy. It is our responsibility to seize this opportunity.

He concluded his remarks with a call to action. “As a government, we are committed to supporting you, but we also expect to see more Bahamian-owned bonefishing lodges across our islands. The TDC, in partnership with the BDB and the SBDC, is working to make that vision a reality.”

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