Fishers and Fisheries at the Forefront: Reflections from the 78^th Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute Conference

Established in 1947, the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute (GCFI) aims to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange and capacity building among marine resource users, researchers and practitioners across the Gulf and Caribbean. Its mission is to advance the sustainable use, wise management, conservation and restoration of marine and estuarine fisheries and resources. The GCFI network includes scientists, resource managers, policymakers, members of the fishing industry, educators, students and other stakeholders.

Each year, GCFI hosts an annual conference that brings together members and partners from across the region. The program typically includes technical talks, workshops, poster presentations, a film festival, field trips, recognition of the Gladding Memorial Award recipient and many networking opportunities.

The 78th GCFI conference took place in Cartagena, Colombia, from October 27 to 31, 2025. The theme for this year’s meeting was “Partnering for the Oceans: Merging Ocean, Climate, and Biodiversity Efforts Through Regional Marine Data and Innovation.” The conference offered multidisciplinary sessions across topics such as management, habitats and ecosystems, reef fisheries, science and innovation, communication and education, and more. Engaging speakers representing universities, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community organizations shared research, practical solutions, policy insights and educational initiatives that support healthy and resilient oceans and coastal communities.

Texas Sea Grant Assistant Program Director for Fisheries and Aquaculture Alexis Sabine attended the conference to learn from fisheries leaders across the region and build relationships with organizations whose missions align with Texas Sea Grant’s work in support of local fisheries.

“The conference offered an opportunity to see how innovative ideas are being applied across the Gulf and Caribbean,” Sabine said. “From emerging technologies for reef fish population monitoring to participatory fisheries management led by fishing communities, the conversations reinforced the importance of collaboration in sustaining fisheries and coastal livelihoods.”

Sabine also participated in the Fisheries for Fishers (F4F) Initiative, a program designed to meaningfully involve fishers in science and management both during the conference and throughout the year. At the event, activities such as the Fishers’ Forum, Fishers’ Field Trip and Fishers’ Roundtable created dedicated spaces for fishers to share knowledge, exchange ideas and connect with one another, as well as with partner organizations such as Sea Grant.

“Programs like Fisheries for Fishers help bridge the gap between science and on-the-water experience,” Sabine said. “They ensure fishers have a voice in research, management and training efforts that will shape the future of our fisheries.”

Texas Sea Grant was pleased to sponsor this year’s Fishers’ Forum, which focuses on ensuring that fishers’ perspectives are fully represented at the conference. This session brings together fishermen from all sectors to discuss issues tied to management, conservation and the economics associated with making a living in the fishing and seafood industries. Fishers’ Forum speakers include recipients of the Gladding Memorial Award (GMA), which honors fishers who have made significant contributions to the sustainable use and conservation of marine resources. 

Two long-time Texas Sea Grant collaborators from Galveston, Keith “Buddy” Guindon, this year’s GMA recipient, and Scott Hickman, the 2017 honoree, participated in the Forum. They spoke about the importance of cooperation among agencies, scientists and the fishing community and the need for balanced, effective solutions that bridge geographical, cultural and political divides. GMA winners from Antigua, the Bahamas, Colombia, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic and Florida added their perspectives on advancing responsible fishing and opportunities in small-scale fisheries, addressing topics ranging from coral reef protection to Sargassum impacts to the challenge of balancing conservation with economic development. “Hearing such a wide range of voices in one room was one of the most meaningful parts of the week for me,” Sabine said.

The Fishers’ Field Trip and Fisher Roundtable offered even more opportunities to listen and learn. The field trip took participants to La Boquilla, Colombia, where they explored a mangrove lagoon in traditional wooden canoes, watched demonstrations of cast net throwing and trap hauling and spoke with local fishers about their day-to-day experiences. A cultural dance performance and fresh coconuts and arepas rounded out the visit, making the experience both memorable and enjoyable. These field trips always reflect the host community and provide a space where fishers can exchange ideas in an environment that feels familiar and comfortable to them. 

That evening’s Fisher Roundtable again brought fishers together for an open discussion in English and Spanish. Participants from places including Antigua, Panama and the Bahamas shared concerns and success stories of collaborative management and the establishment of fishing associations that strengthen the community’s collective voice. Their honesty and practical knowledge made the conversation particularly impactful. “I left the session with a renewed appreciation for how much fisheries management benefits when fishers are not only included but are empowered to share their experiences and lead the dialogue,” said Sabine.

Overall, the GCFI conference underscored the value of bringing together scientists, managers, community groups, and fishermen to discuss shared challenges across the region. The events that provided fishing industry members with space to share their knowledge and experiences made the week especially meaningful. Texas Sea Grant is already looking forward to the next GCFI conference and the continued opportunity to work alongside this inspiring and dedicated community.

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About Texas Sea Grant

Texas Sea Grant is a unique partnership that unites the resources of the federal government, the State of Texas and universities across the state to create knowledge, tools, products and services that benefit the economy, the environment and the citizens of Texas. It is administered through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and is one of 34 university-based Sea Grant Programs around the country. Texas Sea Grant is a non-academic research center at Texas A&M University. The program’s mission is to improve the understanding, wise use and stewardship of Texas coastal and marine resources.