Perceptions of fisheries management, gill net use and income diversification among small-scale fishers in Belize

Despite numerous agencies and resources dedicated to fisheries management and conservation in Belize, the lack of knowledge regarding small-scale fishers’ perceptions of marine resource management, the local gill net fishery, and income diversification hinders effective marine resource policy implementation and enforcement. To help address this, a pilot survey was conducted with 60 fishers from five communities in Belize throughout June and July 2015. An analysis of the surveys reveals: 1) widespread concern about illegal fishing activity and lack of enforcement; 2) appeals for increased stakeholder engagement and participation in decision-making at the community level; 3) varying support for restrictions or bans on gill net use in Belize; and 4) a broad interest in income diversification, especially opportunities related to marine tourism. This study helps inform fisheries management by highlighting the voices of small-scale fishers with valuable local knowledge and a vested interest in the future of the resources they depend on.