Social Status of Hook and Line Fishermen in Visakhapatnam

Abstract

This study aims to document the socio economic
\nprofile of the fisherfolk involved in hook and line
\nfishing. The study was conducted among a sample
\nof 100 fishermen involved in hook and line fishing
\nin Pedajalaripeta village in Visakhapatnam district
\nof Andhra Pradesh. Field survey method was
\nadopted for data collection. Forty three percent of
\nthe fishermen were between the age group of 36-
\n45 years, and all of them belonged to Hindu religion
\nand Jalari caste. Nearly 72% of the male population
\nabove the age of fifteen was also involved in hook
\nand line fishing. The daily income of the fisherfolk
\nwas dependent on fish catch and it varied from
\nRs.150 to Rs.1000. Regarding the ownership pattern,
\n32% owned fibre catamaran and 9% owned wooden
\ncatamaran. The important types of hook and line
\noperated in the area were long line and hand line.
\nOnly single day fishing trips were operated in the
\nstudy area. In 28% of the families, the fisherwomen
\nwere involved in fish marketing and their monthly
\nincome ranged from Rs. 3 000 to Rs. 7 500. Poor
\nimplementation of regulations and excess fishing
\ncapacity were reported as major constraints. The
\nstudy also suggests ways to improve the socio
\neconomic status of hook and line fishermen.