PUNTA ABREOJOS, Mexico -- Off this pristine beach in Baja California Sur may lie the secret of balance between seafood, which people need to eat, and its environment, which is fast eroding.
The blue waters here are teeming with spiny lobsters and well-tended traps, a testament to the successful efforts of small-scale fishermen who have carved a niche for themselves in the international marketplace while preserving a sensitive environment. The World Wildlife Fund-sponsored Marine Stewardship Council, a global group that certifies sustainable-fishing practices for consumers, is currently reviewing the Baja fishery.
If the lobster operation earns the Council's "green" seal of approval next year, it will be the first fishery from a developing country to receive the prized label.
But green seal or no, these are troubled waters. Just a few miles down the beach, and throughout Mexico, overfishing threatens to sink the entire industry. Fish and other seafood -- especially lobster -- have never been in greater demand, with the world's total fishery production today bringing in $131 billion annually. Since 1960, the world catch has increased more than threefold, from 27 million to more than 91 million tons a year.
Fishermen worldwide are harvesting marine life faster than it can replenish itself, causing sharp declines in virtually every commercially important species of fish in the sea. Meanwhile, nearly 25% of what is caught gets tossed back into the ocean either dead or dying.
In Mexico, the situation is particularly bleak, and there is compelling evidence pointing to the Mexican government as the primary culprit for the fishing crisis here. In the early 1990s, the administration of President Carlos Salinas aggressively deregulated Mexican commercial fishing without creating an effective system of permits and licensing.
Punta Abreojos fishing, diving, and surfing hot spot located in the Middle of the Baja California Peninsula. The off ramp is 3/4 of the way newly paved highway 9/3/2007 and is very visible intersection from the main highway 1.
A must see spot for camping is located 20 minutes from the main town called Campo Rene Located on the water front of the wild life estuary of "Estero el coyote" This salt water lagoon is beautiful, full of abundant wildlife, From Seahawks to Sea turtles which arrived in November.
Campo Rene has a complete boat ramp, kayaks, and rental palapas and cottages. Hot and cold running showers.
Punta abreojos This fishing village has an almost prehistoric wildlife of fish species. From the Giant Black sea bass ranging from 50 to 450 pounds. To Abalone, and lobster. (Abalone and Lobster are prohibited in possession)
More information on Baja California visit Planet Baja
