Nestled amongst the industrial activities of the Barbados Light and Power plant and the West Indies Rum Distillery on the coast of St. Michael, is the fishing community of Pile Bay. The area has been a home and landing site for fisherfolk for over 40 years, providing a space for those in the surrounding community to sell and buy fish, and to spend time with each other.
The Pile Bay facility in its earlier days
It is impossible to speak about Pile Bay without also mentioning the Chapman family, who have effectively become the stewards of the facility. Juliette Chapman was the caretaker for several years before her daughter, Katrina Chapman, took the helm. They have always ensured the operations of the facility are running smoothly.
The 21st of May, 2021, saw the establishment of an upgraded fish landing facility for the site, which improved the infrastructure for the processing of fish, bathroom facilities, office space, and areas for vendors to sell food.
Despite its size, it consistently lands enough fish to keep it among the top five busiest landing sites on the island. It is host to many moses, which supply the community with various species of potfish, jacks, snappers and more. It is also an oceanside venue quickly growing in popularity, recently hosting an event during the Barbados Food and Rum Festival.
The Barbados Fisheries Division celebrated this milestone in style, toasting to the rich history of Pile Bay and wishing its continued success. Here is to many more years!
