Contributions of local ecological knowledge to the organization of recreational fishing and conservation of snook in the Sustainable Development Reserve Barra do Una, Peruíbe/SP

Abstract

The development of recreational fishing can provide social and economic benefits to local populations. However, it generates negative impacts on the environment if there is no effective management. This research aimed to analyze the contributions of local ecological knowledge to the planning of recreational fishing and conservation of snooks in the Barra do Una Sustainable Development Reserve, Peruíbe/SP. Twenty-seven artisanal fishers involved in recreational fishing were interviewed through semi-structured questionnaires containing questions about socio-economic data, fishing activity, local ecological knowledge, and relationships with recreational fishing, especially regarding services and aspects related to the conservation of snooks. Recreational fishing has become an income alternative for the artisanal fishing families of Barra do Una, who apply their knowledge of fishing resources in this new practice. Recreational fishing in RDS Barra do Una has potential as a leisure activity and income generation through activities associated with fishing tourism. This feature is quite representative both for tourists visiting the region and for residents themselves. However, it is clear the need to organize this activity to reach its potential for environmental conservation and local socio-economic development. Thus, management measures were proposed based on local ecological knowledge of artisanal fishermen’s current legislation and technical information already available for the sector.