Growing up in the fishing industry, Mark Galea 24, who is currently reading for an honours degree in mechanical engineering, speaks about his passion for fishing.
Fishing runs in his blood, he used to go with his father when he was still two years old. Although at that young age he could barely assist his father, he still wanted to go with him. "Apart the family history, the thrill of the catch is a great allure, the desire to catch more and acquire more knowledge keeps fishing interesting" adds Mark.
Due to university commitments and other needs, fishing sometimes takes a back seat especially during exam months in which he does not go fishing. He usually goes at least three times a week but going so often unfortunately effects his studies negatively. Like the majority of the Maltese fishermen, Mark is an artisanal fisherman, meaning that he tends to fish multi-species by using specific gear according to the fishing season. As the seasons vary, so does the distance from the shore. Generally, in winter months he goes within one mile off shore while in summer time the distance increases between the rage of two to ten miles off shore.
Juggling a busy life, Mark attempts to find time for both studying and fishing. "I would say that fishing fulfils my life". It gives him a much-needed break from all the technological distractions. Feeling so relaxed standing there looking at the peaceful scenery around him that all of a sudden, the problems seem to vanish. Nowadays, fishing is something "that is always on my mind, and I fish every chance I get".
During the past few years, fishermen noted an increase in sea-pollution especially in plastic waste which is either visible floating on the surface or which becomes entangled in their fishing gear. Mark states that plastic at sea is a disgrace and it does not only cause harm to sea life but it also damages the fishing gear. Very frequently, plastic waste gets stuck in the propeller leading to a lot of waste time and danger in attempt to clear it.
Over the years' innovations like hydraulic net haulers, better boat building materials and electronic aids has helped fishermen to fish in waters which are deeper and further afield then the traditional grounds. Such innovations allowed them to fish with more gear in a safer manner.
"The equipment has changed, so did the resources but definitely people's perceptions did not". Sometimes, people tend to prejudice the fishermen's job and fishing techniques as they believe that fishermen are harming the environment. "I would like to say that this sector is essential for fishermen especially for those who make a living from this industry. We promote economic growth and protect our environment and natural resources. Thus, we have to respect it like any other job".
Nowadays, small-scale fishermen are encountering various challenges. The industry has become less-profitable considering the increase in the operating costs in fuel, the fishing equipment, licensing fees besides many other costs. Additionally, fishing techniques have become much more limited in view of the stringent laws, regulations and other policies. As a result, as time goes by, more fishermen are being discouraged to continue operating in this sector. Mark mentions that even though EU funding opportunities are being provided for the fishing industry, these are mainly targeted to large-scale fishermen. Although small-scale fishermen are continuously facing obstacles such as law enforcements, quotas, ever-increasing expenses amongst others, Mark is looking at the future in a positive way because he believes that small-scale fishermen "can easily adapt and fish in different ways".
According to a study conducted by an international team of ecologists in the U.S, there won't be any fish to catch by 2048. They point out that fish are disappearing at alarming rates due to pollution, overfishing and climate change. In reaction to this, Mark believes that "such research does not reflect the circumstances of each and every ocean and sea, however, we should be aware of what is being extracted from our seas and plan ahead". He maintains that "with care, fish populations can easily rebound, case in point the bluefin tuna. Nevertheless, I still have a fear of the state our waters are with regards to pollution and what effects they will have."