Recreational fishing in Baixada Santista (SP): characteristics and interations with the local population

• Grant number: 13/23806-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2014
• End date: December 31, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Ecology
• Principal Investigator: Milena Ramires de Souza
• Grantee: Mariana Gonçalves de Souza
• Host Institution: Pró-Reitoria Acadêmica. Universidade Santa Cecília (UNISANTA). Santos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Fishing is an activity very important both economically and culturally practiced worldwide since ancient times. Among the types of fishing, recreational fishing is also widely practiced in Brazil, with approximately 8,000 km from the coastal area is considered one of the richest countries on the diversity of fish species and presents favorable conditions for the growth of the practice of this activity. However, it is still not adequately explored and the lack of studies, knowledge, and data that could serve to guide policy in this area, is alarming. Thus, this research aims to examine the practice of recreational fishing in "Baixada Santista" (São Paulo), as well as their relations with the local population. There will be a survey of sport fishing clubs, the characterization of exploited fish stocks and fishermen associated profile. Furthermore, we will analyze the available infrastructure for recreational fishing and its relations with the local economy and tourism, as well as the local ecological knowledge of fishermen. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews and mapping and characterization of the fishing spots, "marinas", and local service. It is hoped that this research generates important data for scientific literature on recreational fishing and provide important information for the planning of this activity.