The Costa Rican Sport Fishing Federation (FECOP) announced support from the U.S. Embassy through the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) for the implementation of a new strategy aimed at strengthening Costa Rica's sport and recreational fishing industry.

Officials said the new "Strategic Roadmap for the Sport and Recreational Fishing Sector" is designed to identify priorities and establish action plans to strengthen the industry, improve institutional coordination, promote sustainable practices and foster partnerships that support coastal communities while helping conserve marine resources.

The initiative is the result of two years of work by FECOP, with support from the U.S. Embassy. The effort seeks to create new economic opportunities and increase the participation of individuals and communities that depend on sport fishing in decisions related to Costa Rica's coastal and marine development.

Throughout the planning process, the project promoted dialogue forums, regional consultations and collaborative planning efforts in communities along both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, according to a statement from FECOP.

FECOP said sport and recreational fishing plays a significant role in Costa Rica's economy. The sector attracts more than 150,000 international visitors annually, generates an estimated $520 million for the national economy and supports approximately 33,000 jobs in coastal communities.

"Sport and recreational fishing represents much more than a leisure activity. It is a source of employment, development and opportunity for thousands of families in Costa Rica's coastal communities, while also strengthening the economic and cultural ties between Costa Rica and the United States," U.S. Ambassador Melinda Hildebrand said.

"We are proud to support initiatives that promote effective management of marine resources, expand legitimate economic opportunities and help build stronger and more prosperous communities," she added.

The strategy will be implemented in coordination with the Costa Rican government, which oversees regulations and best practices within the industry.

"From the government's perspective, we view this Strategic Sector Roadmap as a valuable tool for establishing priorities, coordinating institutions and supporting the sector in building a more competitive and inclusive model for Costa Rica's coastal communities," said Carlos Andrés Robles, Costa Rica's minister of Coasts, Seas and Fisheries.

The roadmap was officially presented during an event attended by Hildebrand; Damián Martínez-Fernández, FECOP's director of conservation and public policy; Robles; representatives of the National Tourism Chamber; and members of the sport and recreational fishing community from various regions of the country.

In May, Costa Rica and the U.S. signed an amendment to their bilateral patrol treaty, expanding cooperation to include efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUU), in addition to maritime drug trafficking.

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