As this year’s cohort of interns prepared to wrap up their professional development program in Antigua and Barbuda, they capped off their months of learning with the event nearly all had been looking forward to: a day of hands-on fishing and industry education out on local waters.
On Tuesday 27th, interns alongside their program mentors set off on the collaborative excursion, organized by veteran local fisherman Euton Henry. The trip received additional support from a second local fisherman and the Coast Guard division of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, ensuring the outing would be both educational and safe for all participants.
Before anyone boarded the vessels, Henry and a serving Coast Guard officer delivered a short but critical briefing on water safety and the need for constant caution while at sea. Attendees were then split into small groups of three, with each group moving to their assigned fishing boats. For the large majority of the interns, this marked their first time ever out on a commercial fishing trip, and a mix of excitement and gentle nervousness was visible across the group as they set off.
The day-long outing gave young participants a rare chance to learn directly from a seasoned industry professional, moving beyond classroom lessons to build first-hand insight into how Antigua and Barbuda’s fishing sector operates. Aboard Henry’s vessel, interns got to try their hand at steering the boat, take in scenic views of coastal stretches of the island only accessible by water, and learn core industry skills including the traditional fish pot fishing method and how to identify prime fishing zones in local waters.
Though their time out on the water was shorter than many would have liked, the interns left with overwhelmingly positive impressions of the day. They got to try their hand at every step of the process: baiting hooks, helping deploy fish pots, and reeling in catches of the day. All the while, they picked up context about the sector from a guide who has spent decades working in local fisheries.
A core context for the outing is the outsize role the fishing industry plays in Antigua and Barbuda’s national wellbeing. The sector is central to boosting the country’s food security, maintaining the long-term sustainability of marine natural resources, supplying affordable nutritious food to local communities, and driving inclusive economic growth for coastal populations.
Through the full day of activity, interns remained engaged and curious about their work. Only a small number experienced sea sickness, and even those pushed through to participate in the full program. The day closed with Henry encouraging the young attendees to consider future roles in the fishing sector and to keep supporting local fishermen as they build careers in whatever path they choose.