Just over a month into the grouper season that began on April 1st, the fishing cooperatives on Isla Mujeres have reported catching approximately two tons of scale fish. The majority of the catch is comprised of grouper, snapper, and abadejo.

Despite the steady production of scale fish among the five island cooperatives, fish prices have remained stable. This follows the price increases that were implemented during the Lenten season.

The catch from the first month of the season is reportedly similar to the catch from the same period last year. The grouper season began with the port closed to smaller vessels, preventing them from sailing in the Caribbean. For three days, these boats remained docked at their cooperatives' piers.

In the following weeks, the fishermen faced irregular work schedules due to weather conditions. Only recently have they started to find more opportunities to set sail and fish for their daily sustenance.

Fishermen report that grouper is the most sought-after product by restaurants and hotels. However, the catch has declined due to climate change and overfishing. Lobster, another popular catch, will be off-limits until the last minute of June 30th.

The fishermen have emphasized that government support is needed to navigate this crisis. They suggest measures such as loans, subsidies, social programs, and alternative productive projects.