Abstract

This research focuses on the development of community-based fisheries management in fishing communities from Ortoire to Guayaguayare, Trinidad and examines factors such as the nature of the fishery, the socio-cultural environment, and the development of community organisations which are intrinsic to this community-based approach. Research methodology included the use of face-to-face interviews guided by questionnaires to capture information on fishing operations, fisher households, and a perception and attitude survey on resource conditions and fisheries management issues. Other research techniques included the use of key informants, focus group meetings, and cognitive mapping of fishing grounds and fish resources. The shared fishing areas, similar fishing methods and seasonal nature of the artisanal fishery facilitate a migration of boats and fishers across the seven fishing landing sites. This migration and the kinship among the fishers contribute to strong social cohesion, which supports the concept of a single fishing community. The formation of two fishing associations, and the fishers’ ability to negotiate on their own behalf with other resource users, allow for these fishing communities to engage in a participatory approach with government, research institutions and other resource users in developing a framework for managing the local fishing industry from Ortoire to Guayaguayare

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