Inaugural Fly Fishing Initiative Benefits Over 20 Individuals In The Industry

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ANDROS, BAHAMAS – The Small Business Development Center has issued a landmark grant presentation in Cargill Creek, Andros – the biggest for them this year where they have issued more than 750K in grants to Bahamians in the Fly Fishing Industry.

Over 20 Fly Fishermen awarded grant funding during Wednesday’s ceremony.

It was a strong representation of the industry as the cohort consisted of recipients from various islands, nine of them hailing from Andros.

Member of Parliament for Mangrove Cay and South Andros, Leon Lundy, offering remarks to the inaugural class, emphasizing the significance of the industry.

“Fly fishing is more than a sport in The Bahamas, it is a living thread woven through our culture, our economy, and our environment…,” he said.

President of the Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association, Prescott Smith, says the historic event shows a commitment to development and sustainability.

“When you invest in anything you’re going to get a return and this is about investing in the future for not just…Bahamians in the industry now but the new generation coming along so they will grow the industry and take it to the next level,” he said.

Grant recipient and owner of Castaway Fly Fishing Charter, Cavan Sargent, says he found out about the grant from students in the BAMSI program.

He said he knew he would be chosen as he’s worked hard to make sure his affairs were in order, and he already has plans for his funds.

“I needed a vehicle for towing my boat so it’s going to help me in moving from flats to flats,” he said.