On A Mission To Reach Self-Sufficiency

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CROOKED ISLAND, BAHAMAS – Crooked Island, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant tourism, is now tapping deeper into its natural resources. Since 1997, a bone fishing boom has bolstered the local economy, with spirited Crooked Islanders proudly showcasing their island as ambassadors of our country. But there’s more to their story than just tourism.

Meet Elton “Bonefish Shakey” McKinney, a pioneer in the fly fishing industry, and his son Alex, who is following in his footsteps. Together, they are also leading a movement towards food sustainability.

Without proper machinery, the work is manual and challenging, but Elton believes it’s a small price to pay. Islanders often depend on imports that can run out, especially if the mail boat misses a week.

Elton is pushing for a cooperative that would unite the community to grow more food. This initiative could help sustain the island and create more opportunities for residents to return home and live decently. Another reason to encourage natives to return is the near-zero crime rate, a stark contrast to the situation in Nassau. Crooked Islanders cherish their sense of community and safety.