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Unmasking the Illegal

Safeguarding the Sustainable

Facts
Preserve the Blue, Protect the Earth

Nations With Out Regulations

22

22 nations were cited for IUU fishing, targeting sharks, or bycatch of protected species without regulations comparable to the U.S.

Illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing

1 in 5

1 in 5 fish caught originate form Illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing.

South Africa

77%

Approximately 77% of catch off the

Pacific coast of South America occurred at biologically unsustainable levels.

The U.S. imported over

$2.4 billion

The United States imported an estimated $2.4 billion worth of seafood derived from IUU fishing in 2019.

Over Fishing

1/3

more than 1/3 of global fish stocks are overfished

Costs

$10-23 billion

IUU fishing accounts for $10-$23 billion annually in internationally traded seafood

About Us

Hi, I’m Julian Szymkowiak-Larsen, the founder of Protecting from IUU. Growing up in Dunedin, Florida, a coastal city where fishing was a way of life, I developed a deep appreciation for the ocean. The thrill of casting a line at sunrise and the serenity of the waves became second nature to me.

 

But as I got older, I began to see the darker side of the industry—Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. I witnessed firsthand how these destructive practices depleted fish stocks, harmed marine ecosystems, and threatened the livelihoods of honest fishers. What was once an endless, thriving ocean began to feel empty.

 

This experience changed my life and gave me a purpose: to fight against IUU fishing and protect our oceans for future generations. That’s why I started Protecting from IUU—to raise awareness, drive change, and work toward sustainable solutions that keep our waters safe.

 

Join us in our mission. Together, we can make a difference. Because our oceans can’t protect themselves. 🌍🐠

Our Mission

Imagine trying to clean up a spill while the tap is still running—true progress requires addressing the source.

At True Catch our mission is clear: to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and safeguard our oceans for future generations. IUU fishing threatens marine biodiversity, devastates coastal economies, and undermines global food security. We believe that by raising awareness, advocating for stronger policies, and empowering local communities, we can create lasting change.

 

Through education, outreach, and collaboration with conservation leaders, we strive to:

✅ Expose the true impact of IUU fishing and its consequences.

✅ Promote sustainable solutions that protect marine ecosystems.

✅ Support ethical fishers who rely on responsible fishing practices.

 

The fight against IUU fishing is urgent—but together, we can restore balance to our oceans and ensure that future generations inherit a thriving marine world. Join us in protecting what matters most.

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