Tropical Agricultural Research (Dec 2018)

Factors associated with illegal fishing practices in three perennial reservoirs in Sri Lanka

  • E. S. Wickremasinghe,
  • C. M. B. Dematawewa,
  • U. Edirisinghe

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4038/tar.v30i1.8273
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 30, no. 1
pp. 1 – 11

Abstract

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A study was conducted to investigate the socioeconomic and management factors affecting illegal fishing practices that cause an irreparable damage to the fish resources in Victoria, Sorabora and Ulhitiya reservoirs. A total of 368 fishers were surveyed representing all landing sites of the three reservoirs on their socioeconomic status and fishing practices. Illegal fishing gear confiscated and incidences of illegal fishing were quantified using records of relevant government authorities. Chi-square analysis was conducted to determine the association between involvement in illegal fishing and each of the socioeconomic and management factors. Linear logistic model analysis was performed to determine the odds and relative risk of factors affecting illegal fishing. Characteristics of fishers such as frequent consumption of alcohol, non-willingness to organize into a fisheries society and noncompliance with fisheries regulations were significantly associated with the engagement in illegal fishing in all the three reservoirs (p<0.05). In addition, in Victoria reservoir, those fishers holding positions in the Fisheries Society and voluntarily participating in official raids were found to be significantly less prone to engage in illegal fishing activities (p<0.05). In Ulhitiya, factors such as obtaining license and registration of boats and gear and fishing (full/part time) were significantly associated with illegal fishing (p<0.05). Tendency to be involved in illegal fishing was lesser among those who achieved better education (primary or higher) in Sorabora and Ulhitiya (p<0.05). Training programs were effective in reducing tendency for illegal fishing only in Sorabora fishing community (p<0.05). This study confirmed that a reservoir-specific co-management strategy is required as an effective management procedure to minimize illegal fishing practices in these reservoirs.

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