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An impressive catch has caused a stir on social media: Cuban fishermen managed to pull a 525-pound swordfish from the waters of Gibara, Holguín.
The achievement, which has been enthusiastically celebrated by hundreds of users on Facebook, not only reflects the resilience and skill of these seafarers, but also the deep-rooted nature of a fishing tradition that, despite the challenges, remains vibrant in many coastal communities of Cuba.
A giant of the sea in the north of Holguín
The post from the portal Cuba en Miami, which reported the achievement, simply congratulated the participants: “Congratulations friends, great catch: 525 pounds in Holguín, Cuba.”
Although no other details were provided about how it was done or the duration of the effort, the comments suggest that it was artisanal fishing, carried out under modest conditions.
Others expressed astonishment at the size of the specimen captured, commonly identified in Cuba as emperor or swordfish, and some even doubted that fish of such magnitude still existed in Cuban waters.
From Holguín, multiple users confirmed the location of the catch. Expressions of surprise, joy, and pride flooded the post.
Amidst the numerous congratulations, there were also voices that reminded us of the risks associated with such large-scale fishing in the Cuban context.
Several users joked about the possibility of the fish being confiscated by the authorities.
"Illegal hoarding and illegal fishing. Seized. Hahaha," declared an internet user amidst laughter.
The capture of this fish not only represents a specific achievement; it also symbolizes the resilience and ingenuity of those who make a living from the sea in Cuba.
In the midst of a challenging economic context and with rudimentary means, fishermen like those from Gibara show that it is still possible to achieve astonishing feats that unite and bring joy.
"Paradoxes of the sea: the scarcity of fish in an island nation"
Although Cuba is an island nation, fish consumption has significantly decreased in recent years due to limited availability in the markets and high prices.
For many Cubans, accessing seafood such as snapper, bonito, or swordfish is a luxury reserved for very special occasions or for those who have direct contacts with fishermen.
This paradox has often been noted by citizens who wonder how, living surrounded by the sea, it is so difficult to bring fish to the table.
Government restrictions, the decline of the state fishing fleet, and the lack of proper equipment for artisanal fishing have worsened the situation.
Still, the fishing culture endures in many coastal areas, where entire families rely on the sea for their survival and to feed their communities.
Captures like those of Gibara not only stand out for their significance but also provide a brief glimpse into a practice that is becoming increasingly limited, struggling to survive amid the crisis.
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