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Fisher Perceptions and Management Challenges in KwaZulu-Natal's Inland Water Bodies
Ntandokayise Makhathini1, Matthew J Burnett1,2, Celine Hanzen1
1Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
Aquatic Conservation : Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems
|February 25, 2026
Summary
South African inland fisheries face management challenges due to unclear distinctions between small-scale, recreational, and subsistence fishers. Invasive carp are economically valuable, highlighting the need for integrated fisheries management.
Area of Science:
- Fisheries Management
- Aquatic Ecology
- Socio-economics
Background:
- Inland fisheries in South Africa are vital for community livelihoods but face sustainability threats.
- Existing distinctions between small-scale and recreational fishing rights are unclear, impacting management.
- Knowledge gaps exist regarding economically significant species, their distribution, and fisher perceptions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address knowledge gaps in South African inland fisheries concerning economically significant species and their spatial distribution.
- To investigate fisher perceptions and the use of targeted fish species.
- To analyze the socio-economic contributions and ecological significance of key species.
Main Methods:
- Questionnaire-based interviews with fishers conducted between 2021 and 2023.
- Data collection across rivers and impoundments in the uMngeni and uThukela Catchment Management Areas.
- Analysis of fisher self-identification, practices, and perceptions of target species.
Main Results:
- Difficulties in categorizing fishers, with 'subsistence' being a common self-identifier, blurring lines between small-scale and recreational.
- The invasive species Cyprinus carpio demonstrated the highest market value and economic importance.
- Subsistence fishers showed a preference for river fishing and consumed fish weekly or monthly; male participation in fishing was more frequent.
Conclusions:
- Current definitions of inland fisheries in South Africa do not reflect on-the-ground realities, particularly the ambiguous boundaries between defined and undefined fishing sectors.
- The fuzzy distinctions between small-scale, recreational, and subsistence fishers pose a significant challenge for effective policy implementation.
- Integrated management of South African inland fisheries, considering both ecological and economic factors, is crucial for sustaining livelihoods and conserving fish populations.
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