( The rescue team posing with an Arapaima before setting it free ) cut from the forest are attached and used to lift the sling out of the water after the fish is quickly measured .
The rescue team all band together for the most arduous part of this process . In unison they grab on to the sling , lift the arapaima and march toward the cleared trail towards the river . Four people on each side with two extras waiting to swap out when someone gets too tired . Even though the trail is cleared there is still elevation and obstacles in the way . They manoeuvre expertly around the roadblocks of the jungle shouting words of encouragement to each other .
The effort of these men and women to get the job done is truly something to admire . It is glaringly obvious that this is not their first aquatic rodeo and the years of experience in handling these giants translates clearly into the meticulous nature of their operation .
Once they reach the end there is a steep slope down to the river . This is particularly treacherous because one slip can send both the team and the arapaima tumbling and cause great injury to both parties . However , this is executed to a tee .
The moment the fish touches the river they guide it out of the sling and hold it upright on the surface of the water . Nigel reiterates that the fish is required to take three breaths before they allow it to swim away on its own strength . The arapaima floats gently on the surface in the arms of three caring handlers . In five minute intervals , it lifts its head above the water and gulps a breath of air . On the third gulp the handlers gently remove their arms from underneath , and the mighty giant wiggles its body and gracefully glides away into the depths of the river .
On this particular day we manage to save eight giant arapaimas .
This whole experience is a testament to the undeniable strength , indomitable will and genuine care of the rescue team from Apoteri Village . The tourism industry that attracts visitors from all corners of the globe is not solely attributed to the rich biodiversity that exists in Guyana . It is also carried by the relentless determination of our indigenous peoples who are the stewards of the natural environment . These are the people who have lived on these lands for decades and in the time of Guyana ’ s rapid shift from the traditional to modern world , they have found a way to sustainably profit through the preservation of their natural resources .
They are continuously fighting to maintain and protect this species that has given them immense benefit to their community through ecotourism and scientific research .
All anglers who traverse these waters in search of the legendary giant that lurks beneath the surface should be appreciative of the guardians who are silently working to enable the population of the giant arapaima to thrive for generations to come .
30 | TOURISM GUYANA 2024