Commercial fishing and farming are vital contributors to the food security of human beings and the economy of a nation, and are some of the oldest forms of employment around. Though critical to our survival and potentially very lucrative, they are generally not jobs youth would gravitate to in the working world.
However, Yannick Lucea, a vibrant youthful fisher folk from the community of Anse La Raye, has swum against that tide and challenged the status quo.
Against the background of being a “third generation” fisherman, Yannick inherited his skill, craft and panache from his father and grandfather, who were also fishermen from the community.
Though being a holder of a degree in Diesel Mechanics, he avidly partakes in various forms of fishing which include pot fishing and net fishing however mainly engages in Deep-Sea Fishing.
In spite of a daring and adventurous voyage, Yannick sets course 10–15-miles out in the Caribbean Sea, where he is aided by a Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) which is a floating object designed and strategically placed to attract fish.
Most frustratingly, he claimed that dolphins can chase other fish away from the FAD and can result in heading home with meager returns. Also he emphasized that any fear of the sea is dispersed by his courage and overall love for fishing.
“I do not think I’m fearful of troubled waters as I absolutely love what I do. Also, finding a market for the fish is not a problem as we sell to hotels, local vendors and business owners.”
Freshly caught fish, crustaceans and mollusks are cleaned and supplied both retail and wholesale to Restaurateurs, Hotels and patrons interested in a small quantity for the next meal.
The famous Anse La Raye Seafood Friday also presented a market and an opportunity for a quick fire sale as fishermen docked.
Some common challenges that fisherfolk of the community are faced with which he highlighted are; a lack of funding for appropriate equipment (boats, nets, fishing gear, trolleys etcetera), high fuel costs, high maintenance costs, inconsistencies of a catch and seasonality of fish. Other factors which he deemed important to being a successful fisherman were discipline and good financial management skills.
When asked to share his general advice to youth, Yannick proudly stated, “I think fishing is a career a young individual can excel in. You must know what exactly you want and give it your utmost best. Always look to improve your skills. The thrill of catching a Marlin makes me happy. My biggest catch was about 800 to 900 pounds. I could not bring it in alone. It had to be towed.”
Yannick urges youth to be meaningful in society and is a good example of being steadfast in pursuit of goals despite societal norms. He has forged a career path as a successful fisherman and continues to be motivated to reel in that catch.
9 Comments
Yes indeed. Inspirational !!
Beautiful, supportive of our young men ❤️
Thank you for your positive comments. We look forward to your continued presence on the website.
Yannick we salute your bravery, keep doing your best at what you enjoy doing. We pray for God’s continued protection and blessings over you. We love you. 🤗
Yannick has exhibited much bravery. He enjoys fishing with a passion.
So proud of you cuz! May God be your guide!
Guidance throughout.
Heralding the plausible efforts of our youth is a key PR tool that we fail to effectively utilize. You have certainly captured that key essence and I commend your drive. The rest of us, now only need to amplify for maximum impact.
Inspirational indeed.