“big fish” in Falmouth, Jamaica

I’d passed this fisherman’s spot a few times and mustered the courage to pull over one day. I told them I was writing a book about fishing and would like to essentially learn from them. As any quick-thinking Jamaican would, we agreed on a price (£50), and the deal was set—tomorrow at 5 AM. Damn, so early?!

As the sun began to rise over Falmouth, Jamaica, I found myself waking up early to embark on an adventure I had been eagerly anticipating, only slightly hungover from the night’s Wray and his Nephew’s concoctions.

I manoeuvred my non-agile self onto the wooden boat, and we set off. As we travelled along the Falmouth coastline, skimming across the waters of the Cayman Trench, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of tranquillity wash over me. The gentle rocking of the waves against the boat was soothing, and with the rhythmic hum of the engine, I started to drift off into the light sleep that had been chasing me. Just as that sleep and I we’re about to rock it out, I heard, “Pull! Pull!” from the captain! Adrenaline surged through me as I grabbed hold of the thick line, joining the other fishermen in a synchronised effort to reel in the catch. The excitement was palpable and sharpened my focus.

As we pulled, I could feel the strength of the fish on the other end; it felt like I was trying to pull in a truck! The line tugged and fought against us. This was not like any beach fishing I had experienced in the UK. Were all Jamaican fish this strong? The captain continued his onslaught of verbal orders, humorous and dark in nature, as only an indigenous language can do.

After what felt like an eternity, we finally brought the fish alongside the boat. As it broke the surface, I was awestruck by its stunning colours—the vibrant greens and blues of the mahi mahi shimmering in the morning light. It was a breathtaking sight, and in that moment, all the early morning fatigue faded away, replaced by a profound sense of accomplishment and connection to the ocean.

This fishing technique, which I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand, has deep historical roots in Jamaica. Fishermen have long utilised this method, involving hand-crafted lures and a pulley system, passed down through generations. It’s a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the local fishing community, adapting their practices while respecting the marine life of the Cayman Trench and the surrounding waters.

As we celebrated our catch, I couldn’t help but reflect on the rich history of fishing in this region. The Cayman Trench, known for its deep waters and diverse marine life, is a prime fishing ground that has sustained local communities for centuries. The fishermen’s knowledge of the sea, their techniques, and their commitment to sustainability are vital to preserving this tradition for future generations.

That day, I not only learned about the art of fishing but also experienced the thrill of being part of a community that deeply values its cultural heritage and connection to the ocean. My first fishing trip in Falmouth was more than just a fishing adventure; it was a journey into the heart of Jamaican tradition and a reminder of the beauty and power of nature.

If you’re ever in Falmouth, Jamaica, and want to have your own fishing experience, pull over at the fishermen’s spot and ask for Prince Akeem and Captain, and tell them Speech sent you!