Since the ban on artisanal and inshore hiding was lifted a few weeks ago, fisherfolks in Sekondi Fishing Harbour have been experiencing poor catches.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development lifted the ban on fishing activities for artisanal and inshore fleets during this year’s close season.
The fishing close season, which prevents the fishers from fishing in Ghana’s water for months, was introduced as a measure to replenish the country’s fishery stock, which data suggests has been dwindling.
According to the fishers, there has not been any improvement in their fishing activities since the ban was lifted.
They contend that the period for the closure is not favourable and appealed to the Fisheries Ministry to revert the period between March to April instead of July to August.
They believed that it was the best period where the fishes reproduced effectively to replenish depleted fish stock.
“We have not seen much of an improvement since the ban was lifted. The closed season should take place in June instead of August. This is a worrying situation. The fishers are not making anything significant,”
“I want to tell my fellow fishermen to practice responsible fishing because some of the illegal means employed by the fishermen are causing harm to the sea. I don’t agree with the closing of the ocean, “
