The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) underscored its expanding role in national tourism and economic development recently, hosting a three-day seminar for experienced tour
guides and taking center stage at the official opening of the third annual Fly Fishing Homecoming Conclave.

The conclave, held at the Courtyard Marriott, drew 150 stakeholders and honored pioneers who helped shape the sport. In his keynote address, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Chester Cooper, announced that the Tourism Development Corporation will provide scholarships to students enrolled in BAMSI’s fly fishing program. He praised the Institute’s leadership in preparing new guides and
safeguarding the future of the sport.

BAMSI is currently the only institution in the world offering a globally recognised certification in flats fishing — a distinction that cements The Bahamas’ leadership in this multi-million-dollar sector.
“The current enrollment of new recruits who are currently in training at BAMSI totals 28. This is the highest number we’ll ever see. We expect they will graduate in March And whenever I go across the country, I commit to anybody willing to become a fly fishing guide — the Tourism Development Corporation will provide a full scholarship for them at BAMSI,” Cooper said.

In line with that commitment, BAMSI hosted a seminar at the National Training Agency for about 30 veteran guides. The sessions focused on reinforcing professional standards, deepening understanding of laws and regulations, and preparing participants for licensure. Presenters from the Department of Inland
Revenue addressed business license and VAT requirements, while officials from the Department of Fisheries and the Port Authority discussed sustainability and regulatory oversight. A marketing consultant also equipped guides with strategies to expand their businesses, strengthen their branding and connect with international cliCaentele.

Dr. Raveenia Roberts-Hanna, president of BAMSI, outlined the Institute’s wider mission, stressing how its work in agriculture, marine science and research not only supports food security but also creates opportunities for eco-tourism.

Guides welcomed the training. Bonefish Linda, who has worked in the industry for more than a decade, said she gained valuable insights: “I’m happy I came. They taught me a lot about the regulations, and the importance of having a license. In life, you can’t do anything without being properly licensed, and this training really reinforced that.”

Curry Lewis, owner of Lewis Bonefish Adventures, said the seminar gave him a clearer perspective on the responsibilities of guiding. “The information helped me better understand what is required to be a licensed guide and how that strengthens the industry,” he said.

Leslie Liz Brace, Senior Manager Sustainable Tourism said, “the partnership between MOTIA and BAMSI is beginning to take root through the National Certification in Flats Fishing program.” She pointed out that the Veteran Guide program is designed to integrate sustainability, digital access and reginal competition into a traditional industry. She further noted that next generation guides gained
access, formal recognition and market access, empowering them to step confidently into a competitive global industry.

During the conclave, Minister Cooper reiterated the government’s broader vision, pledging continued support for the fly fishing sector. He said the Tourism Development Corporation will partner with the Small Business Development Centre to help Bahamians open fly fishing lodges and confirmed that dedicated staff will be hired to oversee a new regulatory unit.

“We are also cognizant of the fact that the success of the industry has to be balanced with fair and practical regulations,” Cooper said. “Our focus remains on collaboration with the Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association, our guides, large and small boutique owners, and other stakeholders to ensure that the growth is inclusive for all involved.”

Minister of Agriculture and Marine Resources Jomo Campbell also attended the official opening, where he was recognized for securing government subventions and grants for the industry for the first time.
Together, the conclave and the BAMSI-led seminar underscored how national institutions and industry leaders are working hand in hand to secure the future of fly fishing. By equipping new recruits with world-class training and helping seasoned guides strengthen their businesses, BAMSI is not only preserving a cultural tradition but also positioning The Bahamas as the global standard-bearer for sustainable flats
fishing and eco-tourism.

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