Illegal fishing practices reported in Celestún and Galicia

In Celestún, Mexico, local fishermen report that illegal diving using compressors and hooks is threatening octopus populations. This practice involves using chlorine to force octopuses out of their caves, which contaminates the area and kills eggs, disrupting the reproductive cycle. Fishermen note that these illegal activities often occur around 7:00 AM, bypassing traditional methods and seasonal bans that run from December 15 to August 1. There are concerns that these practices will lead to octopus shortages in coastal areas.

In Galicia, Spain, there is a significant rise in recreational fishing at docks and from leisure boats, often in violation of local prohibitions. Participants include tourists and residents driven by both hobby and economic necessity due to rising food costs. Some individuals are also engaging in unauthorized commercial fishing by selling catches door-to-door, which constitutes unfair competition. Observers have noted an abundance of mackerel (xarda) being caught by these unlicensed recreational fishers throughout the summer.