FishAct – Fighting Illegal Fishing

FishAct is an international, volunteer-driven marine conservation movement dedicated to ending illegal and destructive fishing practices and protecting ocean biodiversity.Founded in 2010 under the name The Black Fish, the organization brings together volunteers from across Europe to investigate harmful fishing activities, raise public awareness and advocate for stronger fisheries protection.

Citizen Inspectors – Exposing Illegal Fishing

At the heart of FishAct's work is its Citizen Inspector Network. Trained volunteers conduct investigations in fishing ports, fish markets and coastal regions, gathering evidence of illegal and destructive fishing practices. By documenting activities that often remain hidden from public view, FishAct aims to increase transparency, expose violations and encourage more effective fisheries enforcement. Its investigations have covered locations across the Mediterranean and Baltic Sea, including Croatia, Italy, Tunisia, Morocco and Germany.

Investigating Destructive Fishing in Tunisia

One of FishAct's major investigations focused on illegal bottom trawling in Tunisia's Gulf of Gabès. Volunteers documented the use of shallow-water trawling practices locally known as “Kiss” trawling, which can damage sensitive seabed habitats and threaten marine biodiversity. The organization's findings helped draw attention to the environmental impacts of destructive fishing methods and the need for stronger monitoring and enforcement.

Campaigning for Sustainable Fisheries

FishAct also works to influence fisheries policy and improve the protection of vulnerable marine species. Its campaigns have addressed illegal bluefin tuna fishing, destructive fishing gear, the capture of undersized fish and threats to the critically endangered European eel. The organization collaborates with environmental groups and engages policymakers to advocate for more responsible fisheries management.

Education and Public Awareness

FishAct believes that people can only protect what they understand. Its volunteers organize public talks, educational events, film screenings and awareness campaigns to explain how industrial fishing affects marine ecosystems. The organization has also developed creative educational resources, including its Encyclopedia of Fish, which introduces marine species and highlights the importance of ocean biodiversity.

Volunteers Taking Action for the Ocean

FishAct is a registered German charity supported by volunteers and donations. Its work demonstrates how dedicated individuals can contribute to marine conservation through investigation, education and political engagement. By challenging destructive fishing practices and encouraging public participation, FishAct works toward a future in which marine life can recover and oceans remain healthy for generations to come.

Photo Credits by: ©FishAct
https://fishact.org/