SEA TURTLE OPEN FISHERY 2026

Castries, Saint Lucia – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development informs the public that the Sea Turtle Fishery opens for 92 days from Thursday, October 1 to Thursday, December 31, 2026 both days inclusive. All harvesting and sale must cease before midnight January 1, 2027.
To better regulate and manage the fishery during the open period, special conditions have been implemented for traditional and registered fishers to engage in authorized harvesting in designated areas.

Fishery and the general public are urged to observe and comply with all regulations stipulated under Section 33 of the Fisheries Act Cap 7. 15. Contravention, of these conditions shall result in a maximum fine of EC$5OOO. Further, the cooperation of the public is encouraged to report any person or establishments that contravene the regulations to the Marine Police, District Police Stations, Praedial Larceny Unit or the Department of Fisheries. The Department will actively monitor island-wide activity to obtain information on captured sea turtles and partner with the enforcement agencies to ensure all conditions are adhered to.
For additional information on Sea Turtles or other marine related matters, please contact the Department of Fisheries at telephone number 468-4135, 468-4143 or 725-1722.