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By The Fish Ranch
In the remote coastal town of Agua Amarga, where the sun rises over the Gulf of California and sets behind the rugged mountains, a generational tale of adaptation unfolds in the new short film Bitter Water. This cinematic piece captures the evolving culture of fly fishing in the region, highlighting how the Lucero family, who have been fishing these waters for generations, are embracing the growing saltwater fly fishing industry as a sustainable alternative to conventional sport fishing.
Fishing in this corner of the world has long been a way of life, dating back to indigenous populations, and the Lucero family’s history is woven into the fabric of this community. From hand-lining and harpooning to commercial fishing, the area has seen the rise of sport fishing, and more recently, a vibrant fly fishing culture. Today, the shift to pesca-tourism centered around saltwater fly fishing has become a beacon for a more sustainable future, offering economic opportunity while preserving the delicate marine ecosystem.
As Bitter Water reveals, fly fishing has grown exponentially over the past 15 years, providing not only an alternative to impact-heavy fishing methods but also a new form of community and creativity for local guides and fishermen. The Lucero family, like many in Agua Amarga, are adapting to these changing tides, ensuring that the next generation can continue the family tradition while safeguarding the waters they’ve fished for centuries.
The film showcases the stunning beauty of southern Baja California Sur, while providing a window into the lives of the Luceros, who are redefining their relationship with the ocean. Their story is one of resilience, innovation, and passion, demonstrating how the shift toward sustainable fishing practices can help preserve the rich fishing heritage of the region for future generations.
The filmmakers hope Bitter Water will inspire others to consider the environmental and economic impacts of their outdoor adventures, especially in places like southern Baja, where the delicate balance between tradition and progress is vital.
Director: Peter Grigsby
Director of Photography: Matthew Williams
Producers: Peter Grigsby, Owen Bettis, Matthew Williams
Editors: Ad Freese, Matthew Williams
