⚠️ CHOISEUL FISHERMEN WARNED: HEAVY SARGASSUM SEASON EXPECTED FOR 2026

“The sea getting harder… and the invasion already starting.”

Fishermen across Saint Lucia — especially along the south and western coastlines — are being urged to prepare for what scientists say could become one of the heaviest sargassum seasons in recent years.

And yes… Choiseul may feel it too.

Large floating mats of brown seaweed known as sargassum are already moving across the Caribbean from the massive Atlantic “Sargassum Belt.”

Experts expect the heaviest arrivals between June and August.

For local fisher folks, this is not just a beach problem.

This affects: 🎣 Fishing nets
🚤 Boat engines
⛽ Fuel costs
🐟 Fish catches
💰 Household income

Many fishermen already know the struggle:

 ➡️ Engines overheating from clogged seaweed

 ➡️ Nets becoming tangled and damaged 

➡️ Fish moving away from traditional fishing spots

 ➡️ Long hours clearing seaweed before even reaching open waters

And when the sargassum lands and starts rotting near the shore, the smell alone can make life miserable for nearby communities.

SO WHAT SHOULD FISHERMEN START DOING NOW?

✅ Check and service engines early
✅ Inspect nets and fishing gear regularly
✅ Monitor sea conditions before heading out
✅ Work together to identify cleaner fishing zones
✅ Protect boats from heavy seaweed buildup near the shore
✅ Stay updated on marine advisories and weather reports

This may also become a serious issue for fish vendors, tourism operators, and coastal communities if large amounts begin washing ashore.

One fisherman from the south recently summed it up perfectly:

“Before we used to watch the weather… now we watching seaweed too.”

The reality is clear: Climate changes are affecting Caribbean livelihoods in real time.

Choiseul fishermen are resilient. But this year may require extra preparation, patience, and support.

📍 Choiseul on the Move will continue monitoring the situation affecting our fishing communities.