In celebration of International Shark Awareness Day—July 14—Ecuador proudly presents its first-ever Best Practices Guide for the Handling and Release of Protected Sharks and Rays. This guide was developed through a collaborative effort with artisanal fishers, vessel crews, onboard observers, and national fisheries authorities.
Manta, Ecuador. In a milestone for Ecuador’s longline fisheries, the Best Practices Guide for the Handling and Release of Protected Sharks and Rays has been officially launched. This technical and educational tool is designed for captains, crews, and stakeholders involved in the country’s artisanal and industrial longline fleets. Its aim is to improve fishing practices and actively contribute to the conservation of vulnerable marine species.
The guide was developed with the support of the Fishery Improvement Projects (FIPs) Conservation Mahi Mahi and Swordfish EC, in coordination with the Pacific Eastern School of Fisheries Foundation (EPESPO) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF Ecuador). It marks a significant achievement in Ecuador’s efforts to meet high international sustainability standards, such as those set by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).
«Responsible fishing is not only a commitment to marine biodiversity, but also to the future of our fishing sector and society as a whole. With this guide, we hope fishers will become active stewards in conserving our oceans,» said Guillermo Morán Velásquez, coordinator of both FIPs.
The guide provides clear, visual identification of shark and ray species protected under Ecuadorian law—such as hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, sawfish, silky sharks, and various species of manta rays—all of which must be released immediately. It also offers practical, safe recommendations for the proper handling and release of these species when caught incidentally, aiming to minimize harm and increase their survival rates.
Key techniques include the correct use of tools such as de-hookers and stretchers, and the application of release methods that reduce risks to both crew and animals. Improper handling can result in injuries to fishers and serious harm to the animals, making adherence to the guide’s recommendations essential for marine conservation.
This guide was made possible through collaboration with more than 20 artisanal fishing organizations from the provinces of Manabí and Santa Elena. “This guide reflects the voices of those who live at sea every day. Through workshops, we blended international best practices with valuable local fishing knowledge to create a clear, practical onboard tool,” noted Pablo Guerrero, Marine Conservation Director at WWF-Ecuador.
The guide also incorporates national fishing regulations enforced by Ecuador’s fisheries authority, as well as recommendations from regional organizations such as the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC). As such, it is an essential resource for ensuring compliance with national laws and minimizing the ecological impacts of fishing activities.
Rollout Begins at Fishing Ports
With the guide now completed, its distribution began on July 11 through training workshops designed to strengthen good fishing practices. These workshops are being held in key fishing communities across the country, including Manta, Santa Rosa, Anconcito, San Mateo, Puerto López, Santa Marianita, and Jaramijó, targeting artisanal fishers, crews, and onboard observers.
A Commitment to Sustainability
The launch of this guide underscores the collective commitment of fishers, government agencies, and conservation organizations to marine ecosystem health.
«The development of this guide is the result of joint work with fishers who face the daily challenge of fishing responsibly. More than just a technical document, it is a living tool designed to be practical at sea, promote good practices, and protect our vulnerable marine species. Every workshop was an opportunity to exchange knowledge and reinforce our shared commitment to a more sustainable fishery,» said Valeria Palau, Fisheries Technician at Conservation Mahi Mahi FIP.
About Conservation Mahi Mahi & Swordfish EC
The mahi-mahi and swordfish FIPs will continue promoting the use of these best practices as a key component of their roadmap toward international certifications such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).
www.ConservationMahiMahi.org / www.Swordfish.ec
About WWF Ecuador
WWF is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, operating in over 100 countries and supported by nearly five million people globally. Its mission is to build a future where people live in harmony with nature. In Ecuador, WWF has been active for over 20 years with more than 30 marine and terrestrial conservation projects.
