The Legend of Betano: Mr. Mario and the Secrets of the South Coast Sea

From left to right:
Mr. Mario (Guide & Boat Owner), Rio, Delivio, Lilo

If you ever find yourself in Betano, Manufahi a quiet coastal village along the fierce and beautiful South Coast of Timor-Leste chances are, you’ll hear the name Mr. Mario. To the locals, he’s more than a fisherman; he’s a legend of the sea.

Born in Com, Lautem, Mr. Mario grew up with salt on his skin and waves in his heart. When his family moved to Betano in 1992, he was still a young boy, but already deeply connected to the ocean. His father was a fisherman, and it was under his guidance that Mario learned the rhythm of the tides, how to read the winds, and where the fish would hide beneath the waves. More than 20 years later, those lessons have shaped him into one of the most experienced fishermen on Timor-Leste’s southern coast.

Today, he knows every corner of these waters the fishing spots near Ainaro and Suai, the hidden reefs, and the best routes to navigate the powerful waves that define the South Coast. It’s not an easy sea. The currents are strong, the swells can rise high, and crocodiles often lurk near the river mouths. But for Mr. Mario, this is home and he knows how to move with the sea rather than against it.

On a recent Saturday night, he welcomed three guests: Delivio, Rio, and Lilo aboard his boat for a 12-hour fishing trip. They set out at 10:00 pm, armed with a collection of sturdy fishing rods and reels, ready for the deep-sea challenge. Under the stars, guided by Mr. Mario’s experience, they journeyed far from shore into the dark waters of Ainaro and Suai.

By sunrise, the excitement was beyond words. The team had caught two Giant Trevally, two massive Red Snappers, and one big Snapper, each weighing between 5–10kg. They also brought in plenty of kembong fish, glowing under the light of their metal jigs. Mr. Mario watched proudly, knowing these catches were the result of both patience and respect for the sea.

Fishing in Betano isn’t just about luck, it’s about experience, courage, and connection. Many local fishermen still venture out in small boats, facing great risks to bring home their daily catch. Yet, for people like Mr. Mario, fishing is not just a livelihood, it’s a legacy passed down through generations.

For those who wish to experience the true spirit of the Timor-Leste coast, joining Mr. Mario on a fishing trip is more than an adventure, it’s a journey into the heart of the ocean, guided by a man who has dedicated his life to mastering it.