Analysis of the recreational fishing in Ascension Bay in a social-ecological system context

Sport fishing tourism has become an important source of income for many coastal communities in developing countries due to its multiplier effect on the economy. In the last 30 years, a notable catch and release fishery has... [ view full abstract ]

Sport fishing tourism has become an important source of income for many coastal communities in developing countries due to its multiplier effect on the economy. In the last 30 years, a notable catch and release fishery has developed in the Ascension Bay, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Each year, this fishery attracts hundreds of anglers abroad, which produces significant economic benefits for the fishing village Punta Allen. The most important economic activities in Punta Allen are the lobster fishery, eco-tourism and fly-fishing tourism. Despite four species are targeted by the anglers (permit, bonefish, tarpon and snook), only the snook is classified as an exclusive species for sport fishing in Mexico. We analyzed the operation of this fishery in the Ascension Bay, by means of empirical research based on observation and application of interviews to users, foreign anglers and local fly-fishing guides. In 2012, the stakeholders leaded by the environmental authorities, created a code of conduct to reconcile the interests of fly-fishing guides with the other activities. However, there are perceived conflicts between eco-tourism and

the increased number of fly fishing boats

To understand the social conflicts related with the use of natural resources of the Ascension bay, we developed a conceptual model of the socio-ecological system (SES), and applied the framework used by CCRN (Berkes, 2016). We explored the interactions between the three sub-systems: the resource, the human and the governance sub-systems. Our results show that the lack of adequate management policies could cause negative ecological and social impacts, like overcrowding and conflicts with other recreational activities. Another problem is the lack of elements that generate protection and conservation policies for the targeted species by recreational fishing, since these species can be fished for human consumption where recreational fishing is not practiced. This situation affects the economic and ecological value of the species. The people from Punta Allen showed great interest in the project. Fly-fishing guides actively participated in the generation of knowledge to develop best fishing practices. Some elements obtained were the economic valuation of the recreational fishing, the spatial analysis of effective fishing areas, the boating carrying capacity, and the economic impact of the recreational fishing. This results will be useful to enhance management measures to promote the sustainability of recreational fishing and governance.