Artisanal fishing

Artisanal fishing refers to small-scale, low-technology, low-capital fishing practices undertaken by individual fishing households. Many of these households are of coastal or island ethnic groups. These households make short (rarely overnight) fishing trips close to the shore. Their gear is generally simple and not very costly. The practices, knowledge and skills are often passed down from generation to generation.

History

The history of artisanal fishing is as old as human civilization itself. Early humans realized the abundance of fish and started to use simple tools and techniques to catch them. Over time, these techniques evolved and became more sophisticated, but the basic principle of using local resources and knowledge to catch fish remained the same.

Techniques

Artisanal fishing techniques vary greatly depending on the region and the species of fish being targeted. Some common techniques include line fishing, net fishing, trap fishing, and spear fishing. These techniques are often specific to the local environment and the species of fish being targeted.

Sustainability

Artisanal fishing is often seen as a sustainable alternative to industrial fishing. This is because it is typically low-impact, targeting only specific species and using techniques that minimize bycatch and habitat damage. However, it can still have negative impacts if not properly managed, such as overfishing and damage to marine habitats.

Challenges

Artisanal fishers face many challenges, including competition with industrial fishing operations, lack of access to markets, and environmental changes such as climate change and ocean acidification. These challenges can make it difficult for artisanal fishers to maintain their livelihoods and contribute to the conservation of marine resources.

See also

• Commercial fishing
• Sustainable fishing
• Overfishing
• Fisheries management