Although there have been a number of studies that have looked at the traditional fisheries of southwest Madagascar, none have provided a detailed description of the fishing techniques that are used by the Vezo people.
The gear and fishing methods used within Velondriake show great variety, like any fishery which targets a range of different species. The majority of fisheries techniques used within Velondriake are traditional including harpoons, hand lines and nets, with the evolution of these and introduction of more commercial methods being introduced throughout the years. For this report Informal interviews were conducted with local ‘nahoda’ (elders) and fishermen during 2008 to gain knowledge of the different methods used within this region.
In order to understand anthropogenic impacts on the marine environment it is important to understand the methods and techniques that the local fishing communities employ. This report aims to provide information, on local fisheries techniques, that can then be drawn on to develop effective management regimes and alternative fishing practises.