Carlos, Francisco, and Ivan were among the most genuine, friendly, and kind-hearted people I have met in a long time. I listened to their stories about losing friends to the sea, including those who fell overboard (yet they still refuse to wear life vests or even offer one to me), their experiences rescuing immigrants attempting to cross the Strait, and dealing with orcas trying to steal their catch. 

The effort and skill of these fishermen are truly admirable, particularly given the substantial amount they need to catch to make a decent living. 

They pull in 26,000 kilograms of tuna annually, all by hand with lines. To earn €300, they must catch at least 600 kilograms weekly, split between three guys.We spent part of the day fishing in Moroccan waters, where the fishermen are even bolder, using small wooden boats that look like they could sink at any moment. 

I came home feeling sick, tired, dizzy, and completely wiped out, thinking, “There’s no way I could do this again tomorrow.” 

I hold immense respect for these individuals—it is an extraordinarily tough and honorable profession.