Abstract

Artisanal fisheries of the Colombian Caribbean has a fishing fleet of boat called "Pargueras" with the autonomy to catch demersal species of commercial value: snappers, groupers and amberjacks. Fishing operations are conducted manually, by restricting the size of their fishing gear and depending on the physical effort of the fishermen. Between February and June 2009 were assessed the incorporation of hydraulic machines in artisanal boat, for a multipurpose fishing, one drumnet was installed to operate gillnet and one hauler with a friction drum for traps and longlines. Information traditional and innovative technology in commercial fishing operations was compared: catch, economic, operational and ergonomic aspects. The results indicated for the innovative technology changes in the size and composition of the catch, catching two more times including pelagic middle, economic profits tripled to the traditional, hauled time decreased for the gear: 37% longline, 55% gillnet and 93% trap. Finally, the place and positions on deck have changed, to improve working angles to work arm and spine. In addition to these advantages, biologically there is a decrease in fishing pressure on traditional fishing grounds, access to other fishing place and diversification of the target catch. Disadvantages by incorporating new elements and lack of training are: accidents, loss of open space on deck, new maintenance routines and increased efforts in the usual places for fishing. However, the elements of innovation suggest changes to promote an activity environmentally sustainable, economically viable and operationally efficient.

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