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Women Making Waves: 17 Women Complete FECOP’s Nautical Training Program in Paquera
Empowering women, promoting responsible fishing, and creating new opportunities in the Gulf of Nicoya.
The waters of Paquera have welcomed a new generation of women ready to make their mark in the world of sport fishing and marine tourism!
After an intensive month of learning, teamwork, and hands-on experience, 17 determined women successfully completed the Escuela Para Náuticas, a national training program developed by FECOP (Federación Costarricense de Pesca) and organized locally by ADEJ (Asociación para el Desarrollo de la Juventud de Paquera), through our Visit Paquera subcommittee.
Breaking Barriers in a Traditionally Male-Dominated Industry
Sport fishing and maritime tourism in Costa Rica have traditionally been male-dominated industries. This program aims to change that by providing women with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to become more involved in these activities.
The training began with important discussions about gender equality and opportunities for women in the maritime sector, followed by an exciting combination of classroom learning and practical fishing sessions on the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Nicoya.
Learning by Doing
Throughout the month, participants explored a wide range of skills essential to sport and tourism fishing.
From tying the correct knots and handling fishing rods and reels to practicing techniques such as jigging, trolling, and casting, the women gained valuable hands-on experience. They also learned about fishing with live bait, operating fish finders, and understanding different fishing conditions.
A particularly important part of the program focused on responsible catch and release. Participants learned not only why releasing fish matters, but also how to handle and release them correctly to improve their chances of survival.
These practices are essential for protecting the marine resources that make Paquera Bay and the Gulf of Nicoya such special destinations for sport fishing and nature-based tourism.
A Community Effort Worth Celebrating
Bringing this national program to Paquera was made possible through teamwork and collaboration.
ADEJ, through its Visit Paquera subcommittee organized and coordinated the program locally. A heartfelt thank you goes to FECOP for providing this valuable training opportunity.
Special recognition goes to the experienced captains and fishing guides from Bahía Rica Adventures, Eagle Ray BioTours, and Unique Experiences, who shared their knowledge and expertise as instructors.
A big thank you also goes to Isla Chiquita Glamping for its valuable support.
A Step Forward for Women and Sustainable Tourism
For these 17 women, completing the program represents more than learning how to fish. It opens doors to new skills, greater confidence, and potential opportunities in the local tourism and maritime industries.
For Paquera, it is another positive step toward a more inclusive, skilled, and environmentally responsible tourism community.
Congratulations to all 17 participants! Your dedication, enthusiasm, and determination are an inspiration.
At Visit Paquera, we are proud to support initiatives that strengthen our community, protect our natural resources, and create opportunities for the future. Pictures courtesy of: FECOP, Rodolfo Dodero, Bahia Rica Adventures, Eagle Ray Bio Tour and participants of the Escuela Para Náuticas.
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