On the North Coast of Honduras, our new study on sharks and rays aims to generate key tools for the administration and management of marine protected areas, but to make these tools truly effective, we also need to reach the hands of those who know the ocean best. Enter Alex Juárez, a traditional fisherman whose routine trip offshore took an unexpected turn.
An Unexpected Encounter at Sea
This project got a strong start thanks to an unexpected but meaningful encounter at sea. Alex Juárez, a 55-year-old traditional fisher from Puerto Cortés, was out on a regular fishing trip when something unusual happened. He caught a shark that carried one of our identification tags.
While fishing near Punta Sal, Alex pulled up a shark unlike any he’d seen before – not because of its size or species, but because of the small, brightly colored tag it carried. Rather than dismiss it, he reached out to us through Facebook, starting a conversation that would lead him down a path he never expected.
His message led to more than a data point – it built a bridge. Through Alex, our team connected with the El Paso Fishermen’s Association, a community of fishers committed to the health of their marine environment. Their enthusiasm led to a weeklong workshop where our team trained 17 fishers in shark and ray monitoring techniques, including the use of scientific longlines and Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVs).
These weren’t just passive learners – they were engaged, inquisitive, and deeply motivated. In every question asked and every note taken, it was clear: this wasn’t just about collecting data. It was about reclaiming a role in protecting the ocean they’ve depended on for generations as fishers.
Interview with Alex Juárez
Tell us about the moment you encountered a shark bearing one of our tags.
We were fishing in Punta Sal, close to the shore. We were about two miles out when we caught the shark. We couldn’t release it because the hook was too deep, so we had to sacrifice it. Regarding the tag it had, I saw the phone number and email, sent a message, and got in touch with Ana Lucia.
What motivates your interest in learning more about monitoring techniques such as scientific longlines and BRUVs?
I’ve never had the chance to tag a species or learn the procedures involved, so that’s why I’m here, to get trained and see how I can contribute to the cause.
How do you imagine your role in conservation after the training?
I imagine myself becoming a driving force in Puerto Cortés, helping train others so they can also join the effort to conserve our marine wildlife.
You can be part of the change!
Alex’s story shows that conservation doesn’t have to start with a formal program or scientific background – it can begin with a simple action. A message. A question. A decision to get involved.
Fishers, divers, and tour operators are on the front lines of the ocean every day. You see what’s happening in real time, and that knowledge is critical. Your observations, combined with science, can help protect vulnerable species like sharks and rays. Whether it’s reporting a tagged animal, joining a training, or sharing what you see at sea, your participation matters.
If you spot a tag, encounter unusual behavior, or have information to share, contact us. A quick message on social media via Facebook and Instagram can make a real impact.
You don’t need to be a scientist to support conservation, you just need to care and take the first step.
