GUIDING GENERATIONS IS THE BEST TEACHING I CAN GIVE!
About Us
The Belize Flats Fishing Association (BFFA) is a national non-profit organization representing fishing guides and coastal communities working together to protect Belize’s unique flats ecosystems. We combine science, education, and advocacy to ensure a sustainable future for our people and the environment.
BELIZE FLATS FISHERY ASSOC. CURRENT ISSUES ADDRESSED
Habitat Conservation and Protection
Professionalism and expertise of guides and flats community
Safeguard life of fishing guides
The sustainability of flats fishery depends on healthy habitats, fish populations, actions taken by guides and flats community, and measures the fishery remains in optimal conditions. It is important that a united guide and flats community voices concerns and represent their interests in the decision-making process at local, regional and international levels to ensure long-term conservation of coastal recreational fisheries.
Increasing the capacities of guides and the wider flats community is important for greater stewardship, advocacy, and professionalism. Involvement in programs that would improve skills, knowledge, education, conservation, and science activities important for a sustainable fishery and tourism industry such as the flats fishery.
Developing and implementing mechanisms and programs for safeguarding the life of fishing guides is important. For this reason guidelines on best practices at sea, code of conduct for responsible fisheries and insurance plans are necessary to protect and safeguard guides from unpredictable life occurrences during their daily harsh and risky life at sea.
PHOTO GALLERY
A PASSION FOR FISHING, CONSERVATION & ADVOCACY
PROTECT BELIZE'S FISHERY
ONE INITIATIVE AT A TIME
"Establish a strong voice and stand as one to protect and preserve flats habitats for future generations."
Chris Leeman
"As users we need to be informed as to why we need to protect seagrass, mangroves and coral reefs and from there take action and press the government for better decisions."
Omar Arceo
"Rivers, lagoons and creeks are important habitats for tarpon and snook but have a direct impact from urban areas."
Mike Heusner
"Ensure violators of the environment pay fines and stop illegalities in protected areas."
Mike Alamilla
"The flats sector is a pioneer of sustainability that supports livelihoods and the country's economy."
Dennis Garbutt
"Beach traps capture permit, tarpon and bonefish and are kept too long in those traps until they are released...this affects us guides"
Gil Acosta
