Understanding perspectives and barriers that affect fishers’ responses to bycatch reduction technologies

Abstract Reducing the capture of non-target species and juvenile fishes through a variety gear modifications bycatch reduction devices are presumed to provide long-term biological socioeconomic benefits improve reputation fisheries. The adoption these technologies by fisheries, however, has been low compared research development efforts. Research focused on technical design catch rate responses technological interventions with limited focus assessing fishers’ attitudes towards technologies. This essay gives personal reflection, based an extensive collaboration fishers, perspectives barriers that may affect their responses. I also suggestions how genuinely engage fishers in process could lead agreeable solutions. Above all, change should be approached from perspective those whose behavior one is seeking influence, acknowledging heterogeneity among fisheries fishers. essential element for success motivation readiness change. Fishers need clear vision what changes mean livelihood evidence technology minimize performs sufficiently well various conditions.