Published by Development - On 12 February 2010

This is a major step forward in the protection of the Caribbean Spiny Lobster. Different countries with different regulations for closed seasons either confused fisherman or allowed for some to take advantage. As described by the LOVEFM News Report below, Central American countries have come together to protect this lobster. The closed season is the same for Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama – 15 February through 14 June 2010.  The Belize Fisheries Department advises that lobster traps found at sea after 15 February will be destroyed.

TIDE, which has always advocated for consistency in closed seasons and fishing regulations, is very pleased that this collaborative action has been taken and would like to thank all pf those involved.

CENTRAL AMERICAN COUNTRIES COLLABORATE TO PROTECT CARIBBEAN LOBSTER
February 11, 2010  from LOVEFMNews

For the first time a closed season for the Caribbean lobster will be simultaneously implemented in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. The Fisheries Department has announced that the closed season is from February 15 to June 14. Fishermen are reminded that they should withdraw their traps from the sea at the latest by February 15. The Fisheries Department says any lobster trap found at sea after February 15 will be destroyed.