The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is advising fishing tournament organisers and participants that licences are required before engaging in such events.

Director of the Department, Mr. Theodore James, said: “Event organisers should obtain a licence before advertising the event as this protects the organiser legally, ensures compliance, and enhances the event's credibility.”

The application to organise an event should be submitted at least ninety (90) days prior to the tournament along with photo identification, business verification documents, and the tournament rules. Participants must apply at least thirty (30) days prior to the tournament. Vessels must have a Certificate of Registration issued by the Department, confirming the vessel is registered for fishing activities. If a Certificate has not been previously issued, an application, including vessel photos, gear details, and ownership ID, can be submitted at the same time.

Mr. James stated: “We take pride in our marine resources, which must be managed to maintain what so many enjoy about The Virgin Islands. We aim to ensure that fishing events are conducted legally and applications are processed in a timely manner.”

Authorised officers may inspect vessels and gear at any time. It is the organiser's responsibility to report all catches, no-catches, and catch-and-releases for every vessel at the end of the tournament. Participating vessels must submit accurate catch data to the organiser for submission to the Department. Licence fees must be paid to obtain certificates, and failure to comply with regulations or reporting will lead officers to enforce the penalties allowed by law.

For more information, contact the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries at 468-6123 or at fisheries@gov.vg.

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The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is mandated to promote and regulate the agricultural and fisheries sectors to ensure that food produced and harvested within the Territory is safe, nutritious, and sustainably produced, while protecting the natural environment, enhancing economic growth, and improving the social well-being of Virgin Islanders.