NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Prime Minister Philip Davis emphasized the significant cultural and economic importance of the flats fishing industry, which contributes approximately $150 million annually to the country’s GDP, while noting that there is room for growth in the industry.
He made these remarks during the 2nd Bahamas Flats Fishing Guide Homecoming Conclave.
“This sector holds immense cultural and economic value and has long been a shining feature of Bahamian life. However, like many aspects of our society, it is threatened by a climate emergency we did not create. Rising ocean temperatures are affecting fish stock productivity—fewer fish are surviving to adulthood. When productivity declines, it negatively impacts the broader ecosystem. These concerning trends, observed globally, are exacerbated by climate extremes, such as the increasing frequency of storms in our region,” said Davis.
He pointed out the inherent sustainability within the flats fishing industry and the clear incentive for conservation.
“As fishing guides, you are both cultural ambassadors and environmental stewards. Flats fishing is a Bahamian cultural legacy that spans over a century. You possess the wisdom of generations—an impressive array of skills and techniques that take years to hone and decades to master. Even as you share these talents, you do so with deep respect and appreciation for our marine ecosystems,” he noted.
He added, “As an integral part of our tourism landscape, flats fishing is the lifeblood of many Family Island communities and a significant generator of national revenue. We recognize there is even more room for growth. Facilitating world-class fly-fishing tournaments and launching strategic marketing initiatives are just two ways this government is supporting the expansion of the flats fishing industry. We have also implemented concessions and exemptions, understanding that running a business is a substantial financial undertaking.”
Prime Minister Davis emphasized the tremendous potential of the Family Islands and stressed the need for necessary investments to spur growth and uplift local economies.
“A $190 million-plus capital works program is well underway across our archipelago to address our nation’s public water infrastructure. We are moving forward with renovations at 14 airports, paving hundreds of miles of roads, investing in clean, climate-resilient energy generation, and improving healthcare access through clinic upgrades and new ambulances. This month alone, we’ve signed agreements for roughly $1 billion in foreign direct investment because we are serious about unlocking the economic potential of all our islands. Our vision for a thriving flats fishing industry is part of an archipelago-wide agenda focused on inclusive and sustainable development,” Davis concluded.
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