1Department of Biological Sciences, Kogi State University, Anyigba.
2National Institute for Freshwater Fisheries and Research, New Bussa, Nigeria.
3Department of Biological Sciences, Benue State University, Makurdi.
The survey of fishing gears and craft used in Gbedikere Lake Kogi State, Nigeria was carried between October 2006 and September 2008. Artisanal fishery is the main type of fishing practiced occupationally by the fishermen in Gbedikere Lake. No form of mechanized fishing has so far been introduced to the fishermen in this area. Quite a large number of traditional fishing gears are being used by these fishermen. Most of such fishing gears are seasonal and selective and is base on the type of fish species to be catch. The types of fishing gears found in this area include spears of different shapes and sizes, different sizes of traps, hooks and line, cast, drag, gill, scoop and seine nets are used. The economic and energy related advantages of fishing gears and crafts over active and capture fisheries are highlighted. The need for more accurate information on these gears is also stressed.
Artisanal, Occupational, Traditional, Gears and Crafts
