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Fishing in
Nicaragua
The Fisherman's
Paradise
At first, fishing was a source of food for the domestic market in
Nicaragua. As the time passed by, the rich fishing grounds of the
Caribbean began to be exploited for export of shrimp and lobster
only in the 1980s. A 1987 loan by the IDB allowed the country to
double the size of its fishing fleet to ninety boats.
Nevertheless, damage by Hurricane Joan in 1988 to
the two processing plants and the United States trade embargo in
1985 kept production levels far below the potential catch.
Restoration of trade with the United States in 1990 did produce a
surge in exports, and the government hoped that fishing would
provide a significant share of export earnings in the 1990s.
Commercial fishing in the lakes and rivers and along the seacoasts
is limited. In 2000, the total catch amounted to 28,008 tons, over
96% of which came from marine waters. About 80% of the marine catch
comes from the Atlantic coast. Shrimp and lobster catches in 2000
amounted to 4,431 and 6,327 tons, respectively. Exports of shrimp
and lobster expanded after the 1960s and by 1980 had reached an
export value of $25.9 million. In 2000, exports of fish products
nearly reached $127.8 million. Commercial fishing is now trying to
diversify its catch to include more red snapper, grouper, and
flounder.
After the Sandinistas took over, the fishing industry was
nationalized. After an agreement made in 1982, the former USSR
expanded the fishing port at San Juan del Sur to service its tuna
fleet. In late 1991, the government privatized the Atlantic seafood
packaging plants, causing seafood production to rise by 19.8% in
1992.
Many people say that the fishing is really “good” around Little
Corn. There are lobsters and sea urchins everywhere, and within a
couple kilometers of shore, you’ll find schools of kingfish,
dolphin, amber jack, red snapper, and barracuda. Fly fishers can
catch tarpon and bonefish right from the beach, or hire Grant at
Casa Iguana to take you out for $35 a person. Boat trips can also be
arranged with a number of locals, or at the Hotel Delfines—ask
around on the front side for a good deal.
For those who like fishing and practice this sport Nicaragua is a
paradise, this country offers Pacific fishing opportunities that can
challenge the most experienced angler or a first time fisherman. You
can target any of these places Mackeral, Mahi, Roosterfish,
Sailfish, and see if you are a good fisherman. You can choose to
fish with rod and reel or you can try your hand at spear fishing.
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