Artisanal fisheries economic viability of a creek east of the Niger Delta, Nigeria

Abstract

A survey on the economic viability of Kugbo Creek fisheries in East of the Niger Delta, Nigeria was carried out in 9 stations of 3 distinct zones (fresh, brackish water, and intermedium) of the creek biweekly, for 24 months. The study was based on the frame survey method and complete census technique, on fisher folks in 3 fishing communities and 13 settlements of the creek. Fishing gears and methods identified in the fisheries were gill nets, impounding nets, line hooks, set hooks, springing hook traps, fence traps, local angling hooks, local traps, and indigenous fish ponds. Fishers operating in the creek were estimated at 2898 individuals with 1208 canoe units. Pick fish catch was 44383 individuals per day with an estimated biomass of 9,148,321g, yielding ₦102,433,750.00 ($512,168.75) in dry months at the cost of ₦11,000.00 ($55.00) per measure that was approximately 1Kg of fish at ₦200 to $1. The most common and efficient fishing method in the fisheries was the indigenous fish pond method which is peculiar to fishing in the area. The highest catch contribution was also with the indigenous fish ponds, with a mean yield of ₦33,591 ($167.96) per pond per day. The fisheries potential of the creek was confirmed very viable and was recommended for further development. Enforcement of policies by regulating authorities to check obnoxious fishing practice will enhance sustainability.