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Stories in the Caribbean

The Bahamas First Deep-Sea Pelagic Knowledge Exchange

An underwater image of one smaller calf whale is lifted up to the surface by its much larger trailing mother in open waters.
Humpback Whales A mother and calf humpback whale, swim at the surface of the open ocean. © Ethan Daniels

In June 2025, TNC’s Global FishPath and Bahamas Program teams partnered with the Department of Marine Resources and BahaMar Ltd., to co-host the country’s first Deep-Sea Pelagic Learning Exchange, which provided guidance on supporting sustainable deep-sea pelagic fisheries to benefit Caribbean countries. 

A deep blue sea with waves frothing at the surface.
Blue Ocean Waves on open water in the Caribbean Sea. © Clem Onojeghuo/Unsplash
A school of fish in the open water.
School of silversides Healthy open water ecosystems benefit people and nature. © Tim Calver
Blue Ocean Waves on open water in the Caribbean Sea. © Clem Onojeghuo/Unsplash
School of silversides Healthy open water ecosystems benefit people and nature. © Tim Calver

Held in Nassau, The Bahamas, the event came in response to The Bahamas Government and fishing communities’ interest in exploring opportunities to expand The Bahamas deep-sea pelagic fisheries and to offer additional economic opportunities for fishers. 

Through this learning exchange, we were able to share valuable knowledge and strategies that can help communities across the region better support pelagic ecosystems and fisheries. The open ocean plays a critical role in maintaining the overall health of our marine environments, connecting ocean and coastal systems while sustaining countless species that communities rely on for their food and their livelihoods. By promoting sustainable fishing practices and supporting healthy ocean ecosystems, we can help ensure stronger food webs, more resilient fisheries, and long-term economic opportunities for coastal communities and anglers throughout the region.

People grouped together for a photo in a conference room.
Learning Exchange Fisheries consultants, fisherfolk, agencies and organizations within the Caribbean and the U.S. came together to discuss practices for sustainable fisheries. © TNC
People sitting together at a table with computers in front of them as they discuss conservation.
Workshop for Healthy Waters Participants work together to share ideas and solutions for Caribbean ecosystems. © Felicity Burrows/TNC
Learning Exchange Fisheries consultants, fisherfolk, agencies and organizations within the Caribbean and the U.S. came together to discuss practices for sustainable fisheries. © TNC
Workshop for Healthy Waters Participants work together to share ideas and solutions for Caribbean ecosystems. © Felicity Burrows/TNC

The exchange drew fisheries consultants, key agencies and organizations, and commercial and sports fishers from across the Caribbean and U.S. They discussed challenges and best practices connected to pelagic fisheries, including biological trends, management, monitoring, and enforcement approaches as well as livelihood and economic development opportunities. Participants identified critical management, capacity, and financial and technical resources that support deep-sea pelagic fisheries.

A huge school of large tuna.
Healthy Water, Healthy People Healthy fisheries support large schools of fish like these tuna. © David Itano
A view looking over the small waves in the huge ocean with water as far as can be seen.
Ocean, ocean, and more ocean Healthy open water ecosystems benefit people and nature. © Justine E. Hausheer
Healthy Water, Healthy People Healthy fisheries support large schools of fish like these tuna. © David Itano
Ocean, ocean, and more ocean Healthy open water ecosystems benefit people and nature. © Justine E. Hausheer

This work was made possible through funding provided by Builder’s Initiative, Moore Bahamas Foundation, and the Sean Connery Foundation.

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