Belize’s barrier reef is one of the greatest natural treasures in the Caribbean—and protecting it takes more than admiration. It takes action.

On March 14, 2026, the 2nd Annual SEA Reef Warriors Lionfish Shootout will return to the Placencia Pier as part of Belize Reef Week, bringing together divers, conservationists, and the local community for a day dedicated to protecting Belize’s reefs.

This conservation-driven event focuses on removing invasive lionfish from Belize’s waters while raising awareness about marine protection and sustainable tourism.

But this year, the event is growing into something even bigger: a full community celebration on the Placencia Pier.

Why Lionfish Matter to Belize’s Reef

Lionfish are beautiful—but they’re also one of the most damaging invasive species in the Caribbean.

Originally from the Indo-Pacific, lionfish have spread rapidly throughout the region. Because they have few natural predators in the Atlantic, their populations can explode quickly. They prey heavily on juvenile reef fish, disrupting the natural balance of reef ecosystems and threatening the biodiversity that Belize’s reefs depend on.

Events like the Lionfish Shootout help manage the population while raising awareness about the importance of reef conservation.

Community efforts have already proven how powerful they can be. In one early lionfish tournament held in southern Belize in 2014, just three teams removed 1,060 lionfish from local waters in a single event.

What to Expect at the 2026 Lionfish Shootout

The tournament itself will feature six dive teams heading out early in the morning to hunt lionfish along Belize’s reefs.

They’ll return to the Placencia Pier after 3:00 PM for the official weigh-in and awards ceremony.

Teams will compete in four categories:

• Most Lionfish Caught
• Heaviest Haul
• Largest Lionfish
• Smallest Lionfish

But the action isn’t limited to the divers.

Throughout the day, the Placencia Pier will transform into a lively gathering place for both locals and visitors.

A Community Celebration on the Pier

Starting at 10:00 AM, the pier will feature:

• Educational booths from marine conservation organizations
• Local vendors and small businesses
• Community groups sharing information about reef protection
• Activities focused on sustainable tourism and marine awareness

From 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the fun continues with a friendly community volleyball match featuring local teams.

Guests are encouraged to stop by throughout the day and then return in the afternoon to watch the teams arrive for the exciting lionfish weigh-in.

Part of Belize Reef Week

The Lionfish Shootout is just one event during Belize Reef Week, a nationwide celebration dedicated to protecting the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world.

Throughout the week, organizations across Belize host educational programs, conservation activities, and community events that highlight:

• Marine conservation
• Sustainable fishing practices
• The critical role the reef plays in Belize’s economy and culture

For visitors exploring Placencia during Reef Week, it’s a great opportunity to learn more about the incredible ecosystem just offshore.

How You Can Get Involved

Community partners, vendors, and sponsors are welcome to participate in the event.

If you’re interested in getting involved, you can register using the links below:

Vendor / Booth Registration: SOLD OUT!

Sponsorship / Contribution: https://forms.gle/GLmSa32XSrBt6pds5

To follow updates about the event and SEA’s ongoing conservation work in southern Belize, visit @seabelize on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok or email communityoutreach@seabze.org.

Visiting Placencia During Reef Week

If you’re planning a trip to Placencia in March, Reef Week is an exciting time to experience the community spirit of the peninsula while learning about the reef that makes Belize so special.

Stop by the Placencia Pier on March 14th, cheer on the dive teams, meet local conservation groups, and celebrate the efforts helping protect one of the most remarkable marine ecosystems in the world.