Socio-economic Aspects of Fishing Communities: A Case Study in Victoria Reservoir, Sri Lanka

Abstract

A study was carried out to investigate the socioeconomic characteristics of a fishing community that influences the efficient reservoir fishery management in perennial reservoirs of Sri Lanka. All fishermen (N=66) of Victoria reservoir, a man-made lake (2300 ha at FSL) in Sri Lanka, were surveyed twice in 2014 and 2015. The survey revealed that most fishermen had boats (78.79%) while the others either borrowed or shared boats. Fishermen have used up to 20 nets during the peak fishing time. Majority were full time fishermen (61.4%). Highest, lowest and mean income per day were 8000, 300, and 1653 rupees during peak fishing, and 800, 0 and 219 rupees during low catch periods, respectively. Only 14% were found not having even the basic necessities and the majority have received only primary education (71.2%). Only 19.70% and 34.85% of the fishermen were found as teetotalers and non-smokers, respectively. About 29.6% of fishermen have voluntarily participated in the state-organized raids. However, 25.76% and 37.88% of the fishermen did not have proper operating or boat licenses, respectively. About 77.30% of the fishermen were found to be actively participated in fisheries organization activities while 95.40% have felt that the organization is useful. This study showed the need for improving the livelihood of fishing community in Victoria reservoir. Attitudes of fishermen towards obtaining a valid operation license and participation in fisheries organization activities indicated the potential for managing the above aquatic resource through the fisheries organization.