Bonito Schools about to arrive in Jardines de la Reina

Photos and Text: Andrés Jiménez

In some parts of the Jardines de la Reina marine park there are areas classified as ZUSRUP (Zones Under Special Regime of Use and Protection) this is a management classification of protected areas, with the aim of using them in a sustainable way, in places where fishing and conservation activities can be interacting under special rules and strict regulations and delimitations. These activities take place without harming the fragile and valuable ecosystems and respecting the fishing seasons to avoid damaging the fisheries. The main allowances in the marine park are for Bonito fishing in the south of Jardines (blue water fishing, Open Ocean) and Lobster fishing with artisanal means.

Bonito schools approach south of Jardines from mid-September to November, mainly with the full moon changing towards the new moon, they are chasing schools of bait that come to feed on the huge amounts of plankton present in these moments. The bonito schools around is a show both for divers and anglers, and a party for the bonito fishermen. Divers go there chasing the huge whale shark that comes to feed near these schools attracted by the mass of plankton, the divers love to jump and see the majestic animal 30 feet long which is impressing.

The boat called ¨Bonitero¨ goes around throwing water jets and bait in order to keep bonitos excited around and attract them near the fishermen, who are taking positions getting ready for the party.

Fishermen gather together in the back of the boat and cast with barbless hooks to the bonito school, they use long wooden rods, the Bonito is landed by flying with the lineto get trapped under the arm of the fishermen who puts it back with a fast movement and is ready to catch the next one.