The fishing industry in Sancti Spíritus is facing a crisis as diesel shortages have slashed fish catches by 50%. Provincial fishing companies are recording a meager eight tons, a stark contrast to the usual 15 to 18 tons expected at this time of year.
Yoandy Rodríguez Panizo, technical production director of the provincial fishing company, confirmed the issue, noting that the lack of fuel forces even the boats themselves to ration diesel.
"We don't have enough diesel for the brigades to use all the fuel needed for fishing. We're now also regulating fuel on the boats," Rodríguez told Radio Sancti Spíritus.
Of the 14 fishing brigades the company operates at La Pesca, only five are currently active—two on the river and three on the Zaza Reservoir, Cuba's largest and a key hub for provincial fishing activities.
Operational Challenges Amidst Environmental Hurdles
The river brigades operate on seven-day shifts, alternating in pairs. At the Zaza Reservoir, the three brigades fish on alternating days. "One day, three brigades fish; the next day, another three," explained Rodríguez.
In addition to fuel scarcity, environmental factors add to the struggles. Rising water levels in the Zaza Reservoir push fish into the thickets, complicating catches and forcing fishermen to explore new areas for species.
Rodríguez mentioned that the company is devising strategies to mitigate these limitations. "We are making greater efforts to locate where species predominantly appear so we can make strategic decisions for capture," he stated.
A Persistent Crisis
This predicament isn't new. Since 2022, Sancti Spíritus's aquaculture sector has faced capture shortfalls due to fuel shortages. In that year, they experienced a deficit of 1,694 tons, achieving just 57% of their annual plan.
In 2025, the Zaza Reservoir reached only 72.2% of its target by April, leaving over 250 tons unprocessed out of the 914 planned.
Paradox of Abundance
Despite being Cuba's leading province in freshwater fishing, contributing nearly 30% of the national total, Sancti Spíritus sees little of its catch in retail markets. In 2024, the province exceeded 3,000 tons, yet fish quickly vanish from shelves.
Cuba's energy collapse exacerbates the scenario. The country grapples with a severe electricity deficit, blackouts lasting over 24 hours in many areas, and fuel reserves estimated for just 14 to 20 days island-wide as of May.
In this context, fish has become a luxury item. By February, 10 pounds were priced at 3,000 Cuban pesos on the unofficial market, equivalent to 75% of the island's minimum pensions.
Understanding the Fuel Crisis Impact on Sancti Spíritus Fishing
Why has fish catch in Sancti Spíritus reduced significantly?
The reduction in fish catch is mainly due to a shortage of diesel, causing half of the usual catch to be lost. This shortage has forced fishing brigades to ration fuel, limiting their operational capacity.
What environmental factors are affecting fish capture in the Zaza Reservoir?
Rising water levels in the Zaza Reservoir are driving fish into dense vegetation, making it harder for fishermen to capture them and necessitating the exploration of new fishing areas.