A fishing group was established in Belmont in the 1970s when fishing became a large industry.

The Government built a market complex with a storehouse, shop and marketplace where farmers and fishers could sell their produce and catch.

 

The district of Cave also built a storehouse, and they joined the group in Belmont, but mismanagement contributed to the downfall of the group. From the 70s onward there have been several attempts to restart the group, but with little success.

 

After the passage of Hurricane Ivan, Reliable Adventures Jamaica (RAJ), a Tourist Board licensed Tour Company, and the Bluefields People’s Community Association made an appeal for assistance for fishers who lost their traps.

 

The Anthropology Club at Missouri State University responded, holding two fund-raising events.

 

Following these successes, Mr. Wolde Kristos suggested the fishermen come together and have a meeting to put in place mechanisms to stem the problems the industry faces, and to secure more help for themselves.

 

This led to the creation of the Bluefields Bay Fishermen’s Friendly Society.