Patrol Success: Illegal Fishing Stopped in SCMR
On March 2, 2025, a joint patrol between TIDE rangers and the Belize Coast Guard was conducted at Rise and Fall Bank FSA, moving westward towards the boundary between PHMR and SCMR.
During the patrol, a vessel was sighted approximately four miles from the maritime boundary, heading towards Guatemala.
The vessel, which was color-coded, was intercepted, and the occupant was questioned and requested to present documentation.
The individual provided a valid Fisherfolk License, Master’s License, and Seaworthiness Certificate.
However, two iceboxes were found on board, and upon inspection, one contained 51.4 pounds of lobster meat—despite it being only the second day since the lobster season closed. 
The second icebox contained 78 market-clean conch, which met the legal weight requirement.
Conch in shell was also onboard, however, measurements of the conch in shell revealed all (17) were undersized, not meeting the legal seven-inch minimum.
Additionally, a new gill net was found on board.
The individual was detained, transported, and released into the custody of the Punta Gorda Town Police Department.
On March 3, 2025, the individual was charged with – and plead guilty to – the following offenses:
- Possession of Undersized Conch in Shell
- Possession of Out of Season Lobster
- Possession of Gill Net
- Intent to Export Fish Products without a Valid Export Permit
Our marine resources are at risk, and enforcement of fisheries regulations is critical!
The closure of the lobster season ensures sustainability, and illegal fishing threatens the future of Belize’s marine ecosystem. We urge all fishers to respect the laws and help protect our waters for generations to come!