Panama's artisanal fishers struggle with declining catches due to El Niño

Artisanal fishers along the southern coast of Veraguas province in Panama are facing a significant decline in their catches, attributing the downturn to the intensifying effects of the El Niño phenomenon. The changing climate conditions have altered the presence of fish species, directly impacting the livelihoods of those who depend on the sea for their sustenance.

Paula Serrano, a representative from the Federation of Artisanal Fishers in the Coiba National Park's influence area, explained that the adverse weather conditions, including storms and rough seas, are driving away fish populations. "When the fish disappear, all species disappear. There is a great impact from the storms, the deep seas, and all that implies a drop in products," she stated.

“

When the fish disappear, all species disappear. There is a great impact from the storms, the deep seas, and all that implies a drop in products.

In response to these challenges, fishers are implementing strategies to maximize their efforts during periods of higher production. However, the Federation is also promoting diversification into other economic activities as a crucial alternative. Some communities are turning to agriculture and livestock farming, such as raising poultry, pigs, and cattle, to supplement their income.

Florentina Batista, from the Agrotourism Association of Lagartero, shared her community's approach: "In our association, those of us who don't have fishing equipment dedicate ourselves to agriculture, to raising calves, chickens, and pigs. We complement one thing with another, and the idea is not to stop there, but to explore other ways to survive." The Federation, comprising 14 fishing and tourism associations, sees economic diversification as a key tool for coastal communities navigating climate-induced challenges.

“

In our association, those of us who don't have fishing equipment dedicate ourselves to agriculture, to raising calves, chickens, and pigs. We complement one thing with another, and the idea is not to stop there, but to explore other ways to survive.