Cruisers Visiting Bahia San Juanico
Many of us know this beautiful bay as San Juanico, though it is also known locally as Bahía San Basilio. We’re asking for your support in protecting the unique reef system in this area by not spearfishing on the reefs and not fishing for parrotfish or triggerfish in the bay.
San Juanico is one of the most ecologically significant areas in the Sea of Cortez in terms of biodiversity. Research here dates back to the days of Jacques Cousteau, and over the last 12 years, intensive multinational studies have identified it as a key site for ocean restoration. It is a rare mixing zone where northern and southern species meet — including finfish, shellfish, sea worms, and many others.
Despite years of research, scientists still don’t fully know what has been lost — or what remains — which makes protecting the reef system critical right now.
Four years ago, fishermen from neigh-boring San Juaniquito voluntarily stopped fishing in the bay to allow the reef to recover. Two years later, radar monitoring effectively ended illegal and nighttime fishing. Today, the ecosystem is healthier than it has been in years. Continued recovery depends on everyone’s cooperation — including visiting cruisers.
If you would like fresh fish, local fishermen in San Juaniquito are happy to sell fish caught using hook-and-line methods. Local families are also deeply involved in shellfish research and aquaculture projects that are building new knowledge about species behavior, currents, and larval origins — a truly community-led effort.
How Cruisers Can Help
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Avoid spearfishing, and do not fish for parrotfish or triggerfish.
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While snorkeling, note the species you see and their approximate numbers. These observations help scientists track the bay’s recovery. If you don’t know the name, photos of the species you see are welcome. Use the checklist below to record your sightings, then email the completed checklist and any photos to SanBasilioBay1@gmail.com
- Buy fish locally from San Juaniquito fishermen to directly support the community’s conservation commitment.