Observations upon the Al-Batinah artisinal fishery, the Sultanate of Oman

The Al-Batinah coast is home to around 35% of the Sultanate of Omanʹs artisanal fisherfolk, who account for 28% of national landings by traditional means. Over the last 10 years, the region has experienced a general decline in its fishery with a consequence of socio-economic disturbance and increased fishing pressure. The present study was undertaken to gain base line socio-economic information upon the region and to examine the industryʹs structure and co-management strategies. Fisherfolk (mean age: 44.4±8.77 {SD}) were from large families (avg. 12.4), educationally challenged (1.10±2.58 yr formal education), and had limited opportunity for alternative employment. Mean crew size of fishing vessels was 1.86±0.63 (SD) and two different systems were employed for calculating crew earnings. Average income per person was approx. US$ 5000 per annum although there was significant disparity in income distribution between villages. Traditionally, fisherfolk have employed the Senat Al-Bahar (“code of the sea”), in efforts to distribute and manage coastal fisheries. However, change in fishery management, away from local, to a more centralised style, has undermined the effectiveness of this system. This has resulted in alterations in fisherfolk behaviour, with some employing illegal mesh sizes, poaching and fishing in prohibited areas.