Across the world, small-scale fishers have set examples of leadership to meet the environmental challenge. Now, a university initiative documents such exemplary efforts. Small-scale fishers (SSF) have a long history of environmental stewardship and conservation of their local environments, safeguarding natural resources and local livelihoods. Such efforts need greater recognition and support. It is in pursuit of this goal that the SSF-Stewardship initiative is engaging with small-scale fisher organizations and fishing communities around the world, highlighting their experiences in environmental conservation and stewardship.