Local Produce, Fish and Farming Seasons

By: Erin Paviour-Smith | Last Updated: March 6, 2017

Local produce, like fruit, vegetables and locally caught fish are available seasonally throughout the British Virgin Islands. 

Depending on what time of year it is, availability and demand for certain items change. This goes for locally farmed meats like,  local pork, beef, poultry, and mutton (goat), as well as locally grown produce like, mangos, pumpkin, cucumber, and pineapple.

 

Fresh Local Fish

In addition to farmed meat and produce, the availability of fish changes as well. BVI fishing seasons are determined around the spawning seasons and migration of various fish in the BVI waters. Some fish, like blue marlin are protected in the BVI from commercial fishing outfits. Even the famous Anegada lobster has a strictly regimented fishing season. This is often why one would see an inflated market price for BVI lobster toward the end of the off season for lobster fishing. Technically, fishermen can only fish in open season, this means they have to keep their stocks alive in the off season. As the stocks diminish, the prices raise, it’s classic supply and demand.

[Fishing Seasons Chart]

 

Fresh Fruit

The tropical climate in the BVI means every season is a dream come true for fruit lovers. All year, local markets and fruit stalls offer a bounty of various locally grown produce. Whether it grows underground or high up in the canopy, there is a vast selection of fruit, roots, vegetables and flowers to add to your diet.

Although you can purchase certain fruit such as mangos all year round, keep in mind that buying fruit in season often means better quality and prices.

When buying fruit, it is important to understand the prices of locally farmed produce are often the same as if you bought from a store. Different stalls charge different prices depending on supply and demand as well as quality. If you ever feel like you’re spending too much, it could also be factored by “convenience.” Try checking fruit stands in less busy areas, and see if there are better prices.

In the BVI, it is not uncommon to have a “mango guy” or a “pumpkin lady.” Scan the markets and speak to the local farmers, they have a wealth of knowledge.

[Seasonal Fruit and Veg]