L-R: Paul Pinder, BFFIA, Dr Anthony Hamilton, Civil Society Bahamas, Prescott Smit, President of BFFIA, Denward Rankine, Vice-President of BFFIA, Levardo Talbot, President TCFFA, Jomo Campbell, Minister of Agriculture and Marine resources for The Bahamas

Catch the Wave / November, 1 2024

 

 

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands

The newly formed Turks and Caicos Fly Fishing Association (TCFFA) participated in the 2nd Bahamas Flats Fishing Guide Homecoming Conclave, held in Nassau on September 20, 2024. Levardo Talbot, President of the TCFFA, attended this significant event, which highlighted the cultural and economic importance of the flats fishing industry in the region.

Prescott Smith, President of the Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association, extended a warm invitation to Mr. Talbot, emphasizing the potential for regional collaboration and knowledge exchange in the Caribbean fly fishing sector.

During the conclave, Mr. Talbot met with Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis, who stated

"As fishing guides, you are both cultural ambassadors and environmental stewards. Flats fishing is a 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."

Inspired by the Bahamas' flats fishing sector, which contributes approximately $150 million annually to their GDP, the TCFFA aims to elevate the profile of fly fishing in Turks and Caicos.

"Attending the conclave was truly eye-opening," said Mr. Talbot. "We saw firsthand how flats fishing can be both a cultural ambassador and an economic driver. Our goal is to replicate this success in Turks and Caicos, starting with our most valuable resource – our people."

Prime Minister of The Bahamas Brave Davis with Mr. Levardo Talbot

The TCFFA's primary objectives include:

1. Represent and promote the common interests of its Members 

2. Establish and encourage proper standards of practice and conduct among fly fishing guides and instructors

3. Protect the fisheries of the Turks & Caicos Islands

4. Encourage members to adopt sound fly fishing operations and environmental standards

5. Advance education, training and certification programs to upgrade skills and professionalism in the industry

6. Promote exchange of information and best practices among members

7. Work collaboratively with government and other organizations on legislation, standards and initiatives to responsibly develop the fly fishing industry

8. Protect and promote the fly fishing industry in relation to tourism development

9. Support mentoring programs to encourage young Turks and Caicos Islanders to become fly fishing guides

10. Promote a sense of dignity, professionalism and entrepreneurship among fly fishing guides

11. Promoting responsible coastal development and sustainable tourism

"We're committed to developing our fly fishing industry with a focus on sustainability and community empowerment," Mr. Talbot added. "By investing in our local talent and preserving our natural resources, we can create a thriving sector that benefits all Turks and Caicos islanders."

The TCFFA plans to work closely with government agencies, environmental organizations, and tourism stakeholders to unlock the full potential of fly fishing in Turks and Caicos.

Mr. Levardo Talbot meeting Hon. Jomo Campbell Minister of Agriculture and Marine resources for The Bahamas

Opening remarks by Ms. Ann-Marie Albury, Executive Director Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry and President of the Bahamas Natural Resources Foundation.

 

 

L-R: Paul Pinder, BFFIA, Dr Anthony Hamilton, Civil Society Bahamas, Prescott Smit, President of BFFIA, Denward Rankine, Vice-President of BFFIA, Levardo Talbot, President TCFFA, Jomo Campbell, Minister of Agriculture and Marine resources for The Bahamas