Hooked on the blue

Deep Sea Fishing in Bangladesh and Marine Fisheries Academy

Ferdous Mohammed Azad

Technical Superintendent at KSF Shipping Services

Introduction

Bangladesh is a maritime country blessed with a vast coastline along the Bay of Bengal. The marine sector plays an important role in the country’s economy, food security, employment, and international trade. Among the many marine resources, deep sea fishing is one of the most promising sectors for economic development. At the same time, the cadets of Bangladesh Marine Fisheries Academy are being trained to become skilled marine professionals who contribute to the fishing and maritime industries of Bangladesh.

Deep Sea Fishing in Bangladesh

Deep sea fishing refers to fishing activities conducted far from the coastline, usually in waters deeper than 200 meters. Bangladesh has enormous opportunities in the Bay of Bengal after gaining maritime boundary rights through international verdicts.

Importance of Deep-Sea Fishing

Deep sea fishing is important for several reasons:

·       It increases fish production and export earnings.

·       It creates employment opportunities for fishermen and marine officers.

·       It helps ensure national food security.

·       It contributes to the blue economy of Bangladesh.

·       It reduces pressure on coastal fish resources.

Deep sea Fishing

Major Deep Sea Fish Species

The Bay of Bengal contains many valuable marine fish species, including:

·       Tuna

·       Mackerel

·       Sardine

·       Shark

·       Pomfret

·       Ribbon fish

·       Lobster and shrimp

Challenges of Deep-Sea Fishing

Despite its potential, Bangladesh faces several challenges:

·       Lack of modern fishing vessels

·       Limited skilled manpower

·       Inadequate navigation and communication systems

·       Harsh weather and cyclones

·       Illegal fishing by foreign trawlers

·       Limited cold storage and processing facilities

To overcome these challenges, Bangladesh needs investment, advanced technology, and trained marine professionals.

Bangladesh Marine Fisheries Academy

Empowering the Blue Economy

Bangladesh Marine Fisheries Academy was established in 1973 to develop skilled officers for the marine fisheries sector and other Maritime Industry. Both Male & Female cadets are trained in this Academy. The Academy used to be awarded with BSC (Pass) Certificates from National University, Bangladesh. Recently Marine Fisheries Academy is affiliated with the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University,  Bangladesh,  which is 4 years Bsc (Hon's) degree.  

The courses available in this Academy are :  

·       Navigation

·       Marine engineering

·       Marine fisheries technology

·       Oceanography

·       Safety and survival at sea

·       Practical classes and simulator training are also conducted regularly.

·       Sea training is one of the most valuable experiences for cadets.

Conclusion

Deep sea fishing has great potential to boost the economy of Bangladesh through sustainable use of marine resources. Skilled manpower is essential for the success of this sector. Bangladesh Marine Fisheries Academy plays a vital role in producing trained cadets who support the country’s fisheries and maritime industries. With proper development, technology, and training, Bangladesh can become a strong maritime nation in the future.

(Contents & Photographs are collected)