Poultry, Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences
Open Access

A Closer Look at Artisanal Fishing Techniques and Practices

Munir Takir^{* *}Correspondence: Munir Takir, Department of Fisheries, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan, Email:

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About the Study

Artisanal fishing, also known as traditional or small-scale fishing, is a type of fishing that has been practiced for thousands of years and remains an important part of many coastal communities around the world. It is characterized by low-tech, low-capital, and low-volume methods that use simple fishing gear and vessels, such as nets, hooks, and lines, and small boats or canoes. It is usually carried out by small communities, families, or individuals who fish for subsistence or small-scale commercial purposes. It is a vital source of livelihood for millions of people in developing countries, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), small-scale fisheries provide employment and income for over 90% of the world's fishers, and they contribute significantly to local and national economies. It is also important for food security, as it provides a source of protein for many people who cannot afford other sources of animal protein. Fish is an important part of the human diet, and artisanal fishing helps to ensure that people have access to fresh and healthy fish.

Artisanal fishing methods vary depending on the location and the target species. In many parts of the world, fishermen use simple nets to catch fish in shallow waters close to the shore. These nets can be cast from shore or from small boats, and they can be either passive or active. Passive nets, such as gillnets and traps, are left in the water and allow fish to swim into them. Active nets, such as seine nets and trawls, are used to encircle schools of fish and then pull them in. In addition to nets, artisanal fishermen also use hooks and lines to catch fish. This method is particularly effective for catching larger fish, such as tuna, marlin, and swordfish. Fishermen use various types of hooks, including handlines, longlines, and pole-and-line fishing. Handlines are the simplest and most traditional method of fishing with a hook and line. A single line with a baited hook is dropped into the water, and the fisherman pulls it up by hand when a fish takes the bait. Artisanal fishing is a sustainable method of fishing that has minimal impact on the environment.

Unlike industrial fishing methods, which often involve large boats and massive nets that can catch large quantities of fish in a short period, artisanal fishing uses small boats and simple gear that are less destructive to the marine ecosystem.

Artisanal fishermen generally fish in areas close to shore, where fish are abundant and the ecosystem is more resilient. This reduces the risk of overfishing and allows fish populations to recover more quickly.

However, artisanal fishing is not without its challenges. The lack of resources and technology often means that fishermen have limited access to markets, storage facilities, and transport. This can result in low prices for their catch, spoilage of fish, and loss of income. In addition, artisanal fishermen often lack access to credit and insurance, which can make it difficult for them to invest in their businesses and protect themselves against risks such as bad weather, accidents, and theft. Furthermore, artisanal fishermen are often vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which can affect fish populations and disrupt traditional fishing practices. Changes in sea temperatures, ocean currents, and weather patterns can cause fish to migrate to new areas or become more difficult to catch. This can lead to decline in the fish populations and loss of income for fishermen. Despite these challenges, artisanal fishing continues to be an important part of many coastal communities around the world. Many organizations and governments are working to support and promote artisanal fishing as a sustainable and viable livelihood option for smallscale fishermen. This includes providing training, equipment, and infrastructure to help fishermen improve their fishing techniques.