Bonaire fishermen: tradition, challenges and hope for the future
This article delves into the lives of Bonairean fishermen, their age-old traditions and the challenges they face today. Discover how this proud community comes together to celebrate their heritage and protect fishing for future generations.
Bonaire’s fishermen are at the heart of a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in the island’s culture. This community, which has sailed the sea for generations, proudly celebrates each year the patron saint of fishermen, the Virgin of the Valley. But times change, and with those changes come new challenges for fishermen.
The annual celebration of the virgin of the valley
Every Sept. 8, Bonaire’s fishing community gathers at Sorobon to honor the Virgin of the Valley. This celebration begins with a colorful boat parade in Lac Bay, where fishermen festively decorate their boats with flags. The highlight? A holy mass at Sorobon pier. This is followed by a series of speeches, a toast and festivities celebrating the fishermen’s connection.
But why is this day so special to Bonaire’s fishermen? The Virgin of the Valley is seen as their patron saint, a symbol of hope and protection at sea. It is a day of gratitude, but also of reflection on the challenges they face.
Stay close to celebration in Lac Bay
Want to experience the annual celebration of the Virgin of the Valley up close? Then consider staying in the beautiful surroundings of Lac Bay, where the festivities take place. Explore our rental accommodations near Lac Bay for September 8, 2024 and discover comfortable accommodations close to the action, surrounded by Bonaire’s breathtaking natural environment.
Challenges for Bonaire’s fishermen
Bonaire’s fishermen are facing increasing challenges. Fishing, one of the oldest professions on the island, is threatened by changes in the world around them. Nature, a source of life and income for fishermen, is under threat. At the same time, the cost of living is rising, and Bonaire’s growing population is putting additional pressure on available resources.
But the fishermen are not giving up. They know that cooperation is the key to their survival. That is why they have united in the Piskabon cooperative. This organization plays a crucial role in conserving Bonaire’s fisheries. Together with partners such as STINAPA and the World Wildlife Fund, Piskabon works on sustainable fishing practices. They strive to increase knowledge and awareness among fishermen about protected species and recovery projects that are essential to the future of fishing.
A tribute to fishing: “Piskadó pa semper”
Bonaire’s fishermen also recently received recognition in the form of the documentary “Piskadó pa semper”. This film tells their story – the passion for the trade, the challenges, and the unyielding hope for a better future. The documentary is an ode to all of Bonaire’s fishermen and emphasizes how important it is for Bonaire’s fishing tradition to continue.
Working together for the future of bonaire’s fishermen
The future of Bonaire’s fishermen depends heavily on cooperation. The Piskabon cooperative works closely with various partners to make fishing more sustainable. They ensure that fishermen can not only keep their old methods, but also learn about modern and environmentally friendly techniques.
The documentary “Piskadó pa semper” can be viewed online at the YouTube-channel of WWF Dutch Caribbean, and soon the entire community of Bonaire will have the opportunity to see this film in a public screening.
Meer weten over vissen op Bonaire?
Want to learn more about fishing on Bonaire yourself or immerse yourself in the island’s beautiful underwater world? Then check out this article for a spectacular Caribbean fishing adventure. In addition, you can also discover how you can contribute to reef conservation by learning how to fight lionfish and thereby help protect Bonaire’s underwater nature!