The Implementation of Fishing Tourism

on Fourni Island

Coordinator: Nikos Kapsis

Students: Oloinic Anastasia

Cocr Doina
Secu Maria

Ormos Marathocapous, Samos Island

Greece, 2011
 Content:

Introduction....

Tourism in Greece.

Recreational Fishing...

Overview of the Fishing Tourism Concept...

The Benefits of Fishing Tourism

Implementation success of Fishing Tourism in Mediterranean Countries..

Fishing Tourism in Mediterranean Countries

Fisheries Management.

Study Area- Fourni Island...

The Implementation of Fishing Tourism on Fourni Island..

References.
 Abstract: This paper describes the general aspect of the concept of Fishing Tourism.
It also contains a case study in order to implement Fishing Tourism on Fourni Island- a
popular destination for Greek day trippers - particular for Sunday lunches. It is blessed with
excellent tavernas with fresh fish, lobsters, and other shell fish in cheap abundance.
The main purpose of the project is that Fishing in general in all times was the key to gain
success from economic, cultural and social point of view. This is supported by the quotation:
For the true angler fishing produces a deep, unspoken joy, born of longing for that
which is quiet and peaceful and fostered by an inbred love of communing with nature.
(Thaddeus Norris)

1. Introduction

Greece is a country located in Southern Europe on the southern end of the Balkan
Peninsula. Greece is surrounded on the north byBulgaria, the Republic of Macedonia and
Albania; to the west by the Ionian Sea; to the south by the Mediterranean Sea and to the East
by the Aegean Sea and Turkey.

The country consists of a large mainland, the Peloponnese, a peninsula connected with to
the southern tip of the mainland by the Isthmus of Corinth, and around 3,000 islands,
including Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, the Dodecanese and the Cyclades. According to the CIA
World Factbook, Greece has 13,676 kilometers (8,498 miles) of coastline.

The main purpose of the project is the implementation of FISHING TOURISM on

Fourni Island.

Objectives that must be taken in consideration in order to achieve this goal, are the
following:
-importance of fishing tourism in the economy of Greece;
- Analysis of geographical position of Fourni-archipelago;
-the benefits of fishing tourism;
-steps that must be overviewed in order to implement it on island;
-fisheries' management;
-perspectives from economic, legislative, social, ecological point of view;
-fisherman interested in working with people and for people;
-attraction on national and foreign investments;
-positive and negative aspects;
- signatures of local people that they agree to implement Fishing Tourism on Fourni Island.
 2. Tourism in Greece

2.1 A global trend, a timeless

destination

Greece is one of the top tourism

destinations in the world. In fact,
Lonely Planet placed Greece among
its top 10 destinations for 2010 and
Greece ranks second in Englands 2008
Telegraph Travel Awards in their Best
European Country ranking.

The number of tourism visits over

the last decade has shown a steady
increase. From 14.2 million international
visitors in 2004, more than 17 million people visited Greece in 2008, and it is expected that
in a few years this number will reach 20 million, almost twice the countrys population.

2.2 A new tourism investment era

The increasing number of tourists and the evolving profile of todays traveler demand
a host of new tourism offerings and infrastructure projects.

In Greece, investors will find a wide spectrum of opportunities, a welcome

environment for new investment, and some of the most beautiful location in the world.

2.3 A Unique Landscape

Greece has more than 15,000 kilometers of coastline, 190,000 beaches, and 6,000
islands and islets. In addition, visitors are discovering the diverse selection of sailing and
cruising options, incentive travel, and weekend breaks, opening up new opportunities in niche
and attractive markets.
Pristine beaches, iconic mountains, a wealth of history, timeless traditions, spectacular
landscapes, and renowned hospitality draw visitors from around the world to the land where
democracy was born and dreams are fulfilled.

Greeces Mediterranean climate is ideal for year-round tourism and one of the core
priorities of Greece today is to create a dynamic, sustainable, four-season tourism
infrastructure that responds to the diverse and challenging needs of the 21st Century.
 According to the 2009 Travel
& Tourism Competitiveness
Report published by the World
Economic Forum, Greece holds
the 24th overall position
among 133 countries, 3rd
place in the prioritization of
travel & tourism subindex, 9th
place in the number of World
Heritage cultural sites, 5th place
in tourism infrastructure and 1st
place in the physician density
subindex.

2.4 A core economic sector

The potential of Greek touristic industry is keeping the pace of country's development.
The main soil resources are connected with the citrus and olives trade. In addition, the
important role in the economy of Greece belongs to tourism, in such conditions, the GDP
was $310.365 billion, which means that GDP per capita represents $27,844 (estimations
according to 2010).

Thus, priorities of development are oriented towards the economy of tourism, which is
one of the most powerful resources of Greece, international tourism representing 30,5 % at
global level from the total export of services and 8 % from the total transport of goods.

Tourism either nationwide, or worldwide, influences a set of indicators as follows:

the dinamic evolution of incomes and prices either at the national level or at international
one. The rhythm of economic growth depends on the evolution which it has on the touristic
region on the determined period of potential development.

Also, receipts obtained from marketing of touristic services and from other goods, which
represent the essence of economy of tourism, influence the balance of payments.
 Currently, more than 9,000 hotels operate in Greece. Due to Greeces many islands
and islets, more than 6,000, the geographical range of tourism destinations is extensive. In
addition, the wide variety of natural landscapes, extensive number of historic sites and
villages, and wide-ranging number of activities mean that opportunities are virtually
limitless.

Approximately 85% of arrivals originate in Western Europe: 21.2% from the United
Kingdom, 17.5% from Germany, 8.8% from Italy, 5.3% from France, 5.2% from Holland,
and 7.5% from the Scandinavian countries.

Increasingly, however, significant numbers of visitors from Eastern Europe and China
are making Greece their preferred destination, creating a wider base of origin countries and
new demands for services, facilities, and attractions.

Greeces advanced high-speed ferry system,

transporting passengers and goods to
hundreds of islands, is complemented by
comprehensive air service. Also, a new
seaplane service recently began in Greece is
a valuable addition for the tourism industry.

2.5 Sustainability

Inherent in Greeces tourism development policy is the issue of sustainability. Many

hotels and resort complexes are installing photovoltaic systems in an effort to become more
carbon neutral. The need for new and efficient building solutions, desalination plants, energy
efficient power supplies, closed loop resource systems, and software monitoring systems are
just some of the areas in which Greeces tourism sector will take advantage of new
technologies for years to come.

Also, Greece is promoting its unique ecosystems and nature reserves, many listed
under the Ramsar Treaty. These are exceptional destinations where visitors may enjoy some
of the most diverse flora and fauna in Europe. From bird watching to mountain hiking,
activities that can be combined with distinctive lodging and singular experiences are highly
popular for todays traveler that is seeking out-of-the-ordinary experiences.
2.6 Human Resources
Because Greece, a country of 11 million inhabitants, hosts more than 17 million
visitors, education and training in tourism services is paramount. The workforce is
multilingual, well versed in the tourism sector, and willing to respond to new challenges.
From management to catering, human resources for tourism enterprises is a Greek
strength.

2.7 Ministry of Culture and Tourism

Reflecting the importance of tourism to the Greek economy, a ministry dedicated to

formulating and overseeing tourism policy is a core component of the Greek government.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism coordinates a wide number of diverse policies and
developments with other ministries so that Greeces tourism sector remains strong, vibrant,
and responsive.

2.8 Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO)

The Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO), under the direction of the
Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is responsible for promoting tourism in Greece and
oversees a number of organizations related to tourism education, development, and real
estate.

2.9 A Global Brand, Global Marketing Support

Greece as a tourism destination enjoys an extensive, multilingual, global marketing

campaign in all media. In addition, Greece is fully represented at all key tourism. Trade
shows and is promoted by major travel and tour operators worldwide.

3. NSRF-Natural Strategic Reference Framework

Greeces NSRF seeks to achieve a balanced development of the country, with 82

percent of its budget focusing on regional projects. With a total budget of almost 40 billion
Euro, NSRF will advance projects directly and indirectly related to tourism development and
will provide investors with ample opportunities to participate in a wide number of projects.

For tourism, NSRF provides significant financial support, with a budget of more than
500 million Euro until 2013. A core NSRF objective is to increase demand and upgrade
the quality of the tourist product and tourist services at all levels.

NSRF support focuses on:

-prolonging the tourist period throughout Greece, and reducing seasonality
-promoting the countrys international appeal as a safe and attractive tourist destination
-Increasing the number of foreign visitors
-Reinforcing domestic tourism.
 Investment in the tourism sector will include the upgrade of marinas, the promotion of
special forms of tourism, the creation of cultural pathways, the upgrade of winter tourism
infrastructure, and the subsidizing of private investments, according to the new Incentives
Law that will be launched during 2011. It is estimated that a total of 95,000 beds will also be
upgraded in the tourism sector in order to provide services of a higher quality and extend the
tourist season beyond the summer months by encouraging new forms of tourism.

4. MARINAS

As one of the most favored tourism destinations in the world, Greece is a natural
haven for sailors.

4.1 A Sea Of Opportunity

As one of the most favored tourism destinations in the world, Greece is a natural
haven for sailors. With a coastline of more than 15,000 kilometers, one of the longest in the
world, and more than 6,000 islands and islets, Greece offers sailing enthusiasts endless
opportunities to enjoy its crystal clear seas, natural beauty, and renowned cultural and
historical attractions.

Demand for professional marina services is growing, ushering in significant

investment opportunities. The tourism industry in Greece accounts for 18% of GDP, employs
more than 700,000 people, and annual visits are expected to reach 20 million by 2010, up
from 17 million in 2008.

The value of the tourist marina market reached 30 million Euro in 2008, showing an average
annual growth rate of 4% during the period 2005-2008.

Size of the Greek Tourist Ports

Market (2005-2008)
 Today there are 19 marinas with 6,661 berths in Greece, offering high quality
services. Many of these marinas have been awarded by the European Blue Flag programme.
In recent years, the Greek National Tourist Organization and a number of the 13
administrative regions of the country have begun implementing a programme to create an
integrated network of anchoring and related services for boats along Greek coasts; this
programme is now nearing completion. New modern marinas, hotel ports, and moorings for
the safe docking of boats already operate or are in the process of starting their operation to
meet the needs of tourists coming to Greece by sea.

Nationwide, the number of berths for all categories of vessels totals 19,269 in 128
ports, with the exception of commercial ports, fishing shelters, and small harbors of nautical
sports clubs. The number of tourist ports, anchorages, and shelters in operation is currently
55, with the total number of berths reaching 10,015. Tourist ports (marinas) reach 80.7% of
total berths. (ICAP study on recreational yachting, June 2009).

4.2 Advantages of Investing in Marinas

Expanding market and growing demand for permanent slips
Need for new and upgraded facilities at many points throughout Greece
Ability to invest in a PPP (Public Private Partnership) project
Safe seas and short distances between attractive destinations
Greece: A global tourism destination brand

The Greek government has identified tourism infrastructure development as a priority

target and encourages the construction of new marinas, along with the upgrading of existing
marinas, to accommodate the increasing demand in the high growth yachting sector.

Overfishing and consequent contraction of the professional fishermen income

mainly in small-scale coastal fishery and their need to search for an additional income from
an activity which would help them to stay in the sea was the cause for the fishing tourism to
be created. A major impulsion was given for the development of fishing tourism from the
human need to come closer to nature and to live the experience of a day in a fishermens boat.
Actually, we all have eaten delicious fish, but we dont know how the fishing was done and
the toil of the fisherman until the fish reach the fish market or the fish restaurant.

Especially now in the period of economic crisis, it is essential to focus on the

problems of tourism improvement. Due to the fact that Greece is surrounded by seas, the
future perspective must pay attention on the investments in fishing tourism as it's one of the
main source of income, related to fish production and marine environment.
 3. Recreational Fisheries

In general, Recreational Fisheries can be defined as a non-commercial (not for sale,

barter or trade) subset of capture/harvest fisheries; motivated by cathing fish for fun, pleasure
or sport. More formally, Cacaud P. defined Recreational Fisheries as all types of fishing
activities including sport fishing activities undertaken by any individual, with or without a
boat, for leisure purposes and does not involve the selling of fish or other aquatic organisms.
This definition further assumes that RF activities a not motivated by a dependence of fish for
food. Within this broad definition, one may further categorize RF into amateur, tourism and
sport/competition recreational fishing; each having their own associated goals and defined as
follows:

Amateur fishing, for the purposes of this review is defined as unorganized hobby
fishing. Unorganized in the sense that it is not associated with specific events or
competitions. Catches from amateur fishing are either realized (catch & release) or are
retained for private consumption.

Sport fishing, is described as an organized activity involving free competition

between fishermen to catch the largest fish of certain species, the largest number of
specimens or the largest total weight depending on the rules of each particular
competition(SFITUM, 2004).

Tourism Fishing,

There is a tendency to use indifferently or loosely the terms sport fishing and
recreational fisheries in the literature as well as in legislation. For example, the article 19 of
the Croatian Law on Marine Fishery of 2003 provide that sport-recreational fishing is
catching fish and other marine organisms for the purpose of sport and recreation, which also
included free diving. Italy use the term sport fisheries but appears to regulate both amateur
and sport fisheries. As target species, methods, as well as fisher demographics vary across the
three RF sub-categories, it is necessary that legislation clearly define the terminology as well
as the rules and procedures to be followed for each category.

In addition the goal-based classification of RF provided above, RF may also be

categorized by the location and tools used in the activity. In marine RF, one observes four
basis groupings: peche a pied (can be defined as the fishing extractive activity consisting in
collecting crustaceans and mollusks in the rocks but also on the beaches), shore-based, boat-
based and underwater fishing ( can also be referred as spearfishing, skin-diving, harpoons
fishing, scuba diving), with multiple further sub-divisions (as presented in figure 1.)

Recreational fishing from boats can also be further specified according to the modalities of
fishing used under three sub-categories: stationary fishing (anchored or drifting), passive or
harvest fishing and active fishing. The third category of which uses the propulsion of the
motor to assist in the fishing activity; while the first two categories do not use the motor
propulsion.
 One should note that these goal based and modality-based categories will overlap; for
example, underwater and boat fishing can be practised for sport, amateur or tourism purposes;
further complicating their management.

Exemple of recreational fisheries stratification:

Scoop net (e.g. shrimp)

I.I .Peche a pied Collect by hands

(sea spider, octopus)

Knifes, hand tools, hooks,

harpoons, etc. (mussels,

octopus)

Nets (cast net and beach seines)

I. II. Shore-based Hooks (pole and line)

Traps

I. Recreational

fisheries types
 Nets (gillnets, trammel net, etc)

I. III. Boat-based Hooks (handline, longline,

trolling line, pole and line)

Traps and pots

Harpoons and spearguns

Free/skin

diving

Collect by hands

( (e.g. lobsters, corals, sponge)

I.IV. Underwater

fisheries

Harpoons and spearguns

Scuba

diving

Collect by hands

(e.g. lobsters, corals, sponge)

 4. Overview of the Fishing Tourism Concept
When we speak about Fishing Tourism we mean the hosting of people which do not
belong in the boat crew - in professional fishing boats for recreation, demonstration of fishing
methods, feeding and generally the provision of tourism services that linked to fishing. The
basic elements that governing fishing tourism is the appreciation and enjoyment of the coastal
marine and natural terrestrial environment and the cultural values of a region.

Fishing Tourism is part of the wider framework of marine eco-tourism, and may also
include the boarding of non-crew individuals on fishing boats for recreational and tourism
purposes, accommodation and general provision of specialized tourism services related to
fishing and fish-farming, and services related to traditions and customs.

Fishing Tourism is an attempt of harmonic coexistence between fishermen and

natural environment through the emergence and protection of the natural, historical, cultural
and traditional values of a region.

The Fishing Tourism, according to the information contained in Italian legislation

(DM April 13, 1999 n.293, n.154 DL May 26, 2004) is defined as the embarkation of persons
not part of the crew on fishing vessels for tourism- recreational, for excursions along the coast
to participate in commercial fishing operations, to carry out sport fishing and all activities that
promote the sea and fishing. Also provides catering on board or ashore in order to enhance
sea foods and retrieve old regional recipes of the places where it takes place. (juridical point
of view).
Tourism Fishing, can be understood as a fishing activity carried out by a third party
who organizes a fishing expedition for tourists. Tourism fishing can be conducted by
commercial fishermen (pesca-turismo) or by recreational fishing professionals (charter);
one main difference being the type of the boat used (commercial fishing boat vs. leisure boat).
The aim of charter fishing is mainly to fish; whereas, with the concept of pesca-turismo, the
purpose is not only fishing but also to practice snorkeling, to eat on board fish cooked in a
traditional way and just enjoy a day on a boat in middle of the sea. Legislation will differ for
each segment of tourism fishing.
The development of Fishing Tourism is viewed as an opportunity for professional
diversification that aims at boosting the rebirth of coastal communities and fishermen who are
facing financial problems due to a reduction in their incomes and in traditional fishing
activities.

Further, Fishing Tourism may also serve as a tool for increasing public awareness on
the environmental problems and principles of sustainable growth to both sides involved: to
tourist agents and their customers, and to fishermen and tourists.
 5. The Benefits of Fishing Tourism

Fishing Tourism has direct economic benefits from the sale of tackle, bait, boats and
recreational vehicles, and indirect benefits flowing from anglers who travel to fish and pay for
air fares, boat charters, food, fuel and accommodation. Fishing is often a shared family or
group activity, contributing to community cohesion and development. It also provides benefits
through its outdoor, physical nature and improved diets associated with increased fish
consumption.

Fishing Tourism has a very big impact on socio-economic situation. Studies from other
regions have shown that Fishing Tourism may be a non-negligible source of income for
various services sectors, such as creating employment in the tourism sector (e.g. in hotels, in
restaurants, charters and general services in harbours and fishing gear stores), as well as direct
revenue in those sectors providing physical inputs for it (e.g. naval industry, bait, equipment
and gear stores); not to forget the social value of fishing tourism itself.

Is remarkable that the benefits financial and social, resulting from the application of the
fishing tourism where there was careful planning, holistic approach and the need for the
fishermen to remain in their natural workplace and the protection of the natural environment
was taken into account, were many and important things achieved without difficulties and a
lot of time.
1. Reduce fishing effort on stocks;
2. Supplement the income of fishermen;
3. Restore and enhance the cultural and historical heritage of artisanal fishing;
4. Retrieve old tenements and premises where they worked the fish;
5. Find employment for women as the family of the fisherman;
6. Avoid expulsion of children from the fishing industry;
7. Promoting local products of the places where it takes place.

In conclusion we can say that making Fishing Tourism from a point of view it means
to respect environmental resources, preserve wildlife but also to appreciate the beautiful
scenery environmental resources, preserve wildlife but also to appreciate the beautiful scenery
of the places visited, tasting local products through recipe sites, discover the crafts of the area.
 6. Successful implementation of fishing tourism in mediterranean countries.
Recreational fishing is one of the most frequent leisure activities in coastal zones, and
it involves large numbers of people and consequently high levels of fishing effort, which may
be higher than in the commercial fishery.

Fishing tourism has been documented as one of the most popular activities along the
coasts of numerous countries around the world such as Canada, Italy, Spain and USA. In
other countries, fishing tourism played an important social and economic role, even if not
formally assessed through the use of surveys and other quantification techniques. It has
economic, social, and cultural roles in the Mediterranean, where commercial fishing is largely
the domain of small-scale concerns operating in coastal areas. Over the past 20 years, catches
of several key commercial stocks have been in sharp decline despite increased fishing effort,
symptomatic of overexploitation. Fishing tourism is particularly important in the
Mediterranean, representing more than 10% of total fisheries production in the area (EU,
2004)

In the European Mediterranean region recreational fishing has been a traditional

leisure activity which nowadays is becoming more significant and emerges as a new
alternative forthe tourism sector and also for the commercial fishing. Although, the social and
economic impact of this fishery no attention has been paid on assess its impact over the
resource and on the economic yield.

The communitarian project SFITUM (Sport Fishing: an informative and economic

alternative for tuna fishing in the Mediterranean) try to develop a multidisciplinary approach
to the recreational fisheries problem. This project Directed by Ana Gordoa involved three
countries (Spain, France and Italy) and six institutions: CEAB (Centro de Estudios Avanzados
de Blanes) from Spanish Research Council-CSIC; Gabinete de Economia del Mar from
University of Barcelona (GEM-UB); Spanish Oceanography Institute (IEO); Oceanic
Development; Aquastudio and Federation International de la Pche Sportive1. The project
financed by EU Directorate-General Fisheries begun in January 2003 and will end by October
2004. Additional support from the regional Government of Catalonia (Generalitat de
Catalunya) is in progress to realize a large specific enquiry in their area.

SFITUM Project is particularly addressed to describe the activity on Big Game

Fishing, where the Tuna Recreational Activities is the more relevant one. Despite that the
project is mainly focused on Red Tuna Fishery, the team try to establish also a first approach
to the global problem of recreational fisheries in the Mediterranean region.

The Mediterranean EU area comprises a large area of this sea. After 1st of May, when
Malta, Slovenia and Cyprus join the Union, the waters Communitarian area comprises a big
part from West to East of Mediterranean, as can be showed in the map. This supposes an
important responsibility for the Union, over the sustainability of the marine resources. The
proposed Regulation on Mediterranean2 is a first step to assume this fact.
 The colored areas suppose the waters that with the enlargement of EEZ, can be
managed under national and Communitarian Rules. In Blue, Green and Orange is showed the
area cover by this study. In yellow the Communitarian area not covered.

Map of Mediterranean waters

The recreational fisheries have a different regulation by countries and regions. No relevant
Communitarian framework is developed by the moment. To understand the actual situation
the star point is to describe the different legal frame in the EU countries.

Recreational fishing is a very complex activity owing to the diversity and heterogeneity of
the pursuit itself and of the social and economic sectors and administration associated with it.
Consequently, the working frame is multidimensional though it can summarise in three
qualitative different, but not independent components: legislative, economic and biological.
SFITUM approach this study through three major goals. The first is to describe the legislative
framework on the different segments of recreational fishing in Spain, France and Italy,
necessary to assess the impact of future common regulatory measures to be passed by the EC
in each country. The second objective is to assess the economic yield of this activity in these
countries and to consider its potential in the tourist sector.
 The third is to launch a network of biological information from volunteer recreational
fishermen and sportive and fishing federations, which will give a starting point to assess the
impact of this activity over Red Tuna and other Big Pelagics. This paper presents the
methodological approach designed to achieve the second objective that from an economic
perspective search to evaluate this activity in the Central and Western Mediterranean region
for further management purposes. The present and future development of this activity and
economic sectors associated also depend on the present and future regulatory policies. Briefly
we present the different topics on which SFITUM have analysed their current legislation in
each country.

The general prohibitions of Recreational Fisheries as well as limitations on fishing

modalities has been studied in detail as well as any requirement for its practice (licences,
authorisations). Conservation measures applied in each country and region as: limit of
catches, minimum lengths, forbidden species, restrictions in protected area and periods.
Control measures from specific instruments and control bodies to sanctions. Moreover,
general sailing conditions from recreational sailing qualifications to recreational boats and
taxation have been thoroughly analysed. Requirements for tourism or charter fishing, key
factor for the fully development of this activity in the tourist sector is also analysed. Finally,
Recreational Fisheries as a sportive activity has also been analysed through Competitions
requirements.

Preliminary results show clearly big differences in the current legislation between
countries. Briefly, Spain present the most restrictive policies in every of the topics analysed
which has both positive and negative effects. The positive is that the impact of apply
Communitarian action policies will be low and easily handled because the providing and
receiving bodies of control measures is already established. The negative is that present
restrictions for its practice as a commercial leisure activity prevent the development of charter

and tourism companies in Spain. The opposite scenario is the one observed in Italy where the
lack of policies is such that SFITUM is facing almost an unworkable scenario. France
provides an intermediate situation where the sportive federation plays a major role on this
activity.
Recreational

Recreational

Recreational

Professional

Professional

Professional
fishermen
Mooring
Licenses

Landing
Fishing

Vessels

Tones
Ports

Areas

Andalusia 26500 34 11300 880 12800 1350

Murcia 8200 11 3700 314 3700 480

Valencia 25600 33 14140 500 42000 760

Balearic Is. 23000 42 16600 503 3900 770

Catalonia 50000 16 20100 1564 45000 4500

SPAIN 133300 124 65840 3761 107400 7860

Languedoc No licenses 31 22000 1141 40000 No data

PACA No licenses 122 57000 549 No data No data

FRANCE No licenses 153 77000 1690 No data No data

Ligurian No licenses 135 69500 1742 20800 3100

Tirreno No licenses 129 66500 3736 27200 8600

ITALY No licenses 264 136000 5478 88000 11700

TOTAL 540 155840 10829

The economical yield of Recreational Fisheries, main subject of this presentation, lies
on the 3 different major sectors. The impact on primary sector although weak because the sale
of catch from Recreational Fisheries is prohibited, with the exception that from fishing
contest, in certain regions like southern Italy the catch from Recreational Fishery is put on the
black market. Nevertheless the main sectors favoured by Recreational Fisheries are naval
industry (nautical, gears, electronics, etc.) and services.

Recreational fishing from boats requires certain facilities as availability of harbours or

natural bays. These vary within and between countries and may ease or difficult the
development of this fishing. Differences in shoreline topography and economical level are key
factors on the existence of harbours and associated services. In order to assess number of
harbours and moorings along the coast of these countries and the associated facilities,
availability and prices, two different types of data and collecting procedures are performed.
Number of ports and moorings and general facilities are collected through letters sent to port
departments, private organisations and finally through the World Wide Web. Ports activity,
occupation, prices, fuel consumption and services is being collected by sending a designed
questionnaire by post. The ports questionnaire collected data on equipments and services that
we have considered relevant in this study.

At present, SFITUM have collected data from the 95% of Spanish Mediterranean leisure
ports and related services; 111 French Mediterranean leisure ports (72%) and 812 Italian ports
and recreational societies.
 Preliminary research on collecting data shows strong regional differences. This is the
case of certain areas as in southern Italy, without facilities but with natural bays and beaches
crowded of small recreational fishing vessels. This result jointly with the almost absent Italian
legislative framework on this activity reveals the difficulty on monitoring this activity in those
places where the economical impact on other sectors is slight but significant on the social one.

Naval industry sector is also directly beneficiary from Recreational Fisheries;

differences in the taxes applied in each country also influence its development. In France the
Value Added Tax is 19,6% and in Spain 16% but in Spain fee registration of 12 % of the boat
price is required for vessels of 7,5 meters of more. Because the registration fee is extremely
high in Spain and rental boats are exempted from it, many purely recreational boats are
disguised under the rental category. Consequently, to obtain a reliable figure of rental boats in
Spain is impossible and the magnitude of overestimation is at present unknown.

In order to approach each economical sector associated with this activity and its
impact on marine resources a specific questionnaire addressed to each recreational fisherman
have been designed. Each questionnaire includes 38 questions grouped on three different
types. The first gathered questions about the social and geographical component as; city,
vessel length, sex, age and years of experience in Recreational Fisheries. The second group of
questions deal with the type and intensity of fishing activity as well as of the annual catch by
species on each modality of fishing. The third group is on associated costs of Recreational
Fisheries practice. The latter consider from mooring rent, insurance, licences fee, insurance,
ships maintenance, electronic material, fuel, lodging, transport and Competitions associated
expenses.

The distribution of this questionnaires have done by different ways, personal approach
during fishing contests, distribution through fishing clubs, included in specialised recreational
fishing magazines, and direct approach in Nautical Fairs. The latter has been the most
efficient method. In Spain 240 forms are already collected figure that should be at least
doubled by the dead line of collecting this type of data (June, 2004).

In France a specific effort is developed on gathering information of the economical

activity of charters. Charter companies in France are more developed than in other countries
and 23 companies have been found and 6 have already answered the specific questionnaires.

In Italy the available information is mainly of estimates on Bluefin Tuna recreational

fisheries fleet, fishermen and catch. All information collected by SFITUM during 2003 can be
found in annex I. In a limited area (Catalonia) we sent by mail a large enquiry to cover by
stochastic procedure the total population of licenses owners on recreational fisheries. Its an
enquiry directed to the fishing licenses owners, with the intention to obtain an approximated
view of the global recreational fishing, which includes the offshore fishing as well as the
shore, underwater and continental fishing (as in lakes and rivers). This enquiry is limited due
to budget restrictions to the Catalonian geographic area. The shipment and reception of the
enquiries has done by mail services.
 The sample size is 14000 Catalan citizens that they have sent the licences of
recreational fishing. This enquiry is addressed over a total of 70000 people that are registered
some time one license, the actual is around 50.000. The time necessary to fill up the survey
makes it between the seven and ten minutes as maximum.

In these enquiries it was obtained socio-economic information that included: sex, age,
years of recreational fishing experience, port, residence, owner of the vessel, length of the
vessel, annual fishing days, type and number of fishing licenses on board and fishing gears
used. On an economic level it is collected information about annual costs that fishermen gets
in order to do the activity, including licenses cost, lodging (number of days per year), daily
expenses (lodging, food, services, bait, etc.), yearly costs (gear, vessel maintenance, electronic
equipment, oil cost) and transportation costs from the residence to the vessel.

The management and legal frame, drive us to establish 9 study areas. For Spain 5
Comunidades Autonomas (regional governments): Catalonia, Balearic Islands, Valencia,
Murcia and Andalusia. For France two Regions: Languedoc and PACA. For Italy, Tirreno and
Ligurian Sea.

At the end of the project is expected to provide a first picture on different regulations
systems as licenses, forbidden techniques, limitations (gears, quantity, size), area exclusions,
legal figures, prices, etc. To goal is also tries to understand as this regulations affect the
recreational fisheries activity, affect the resources and the fishing zones.

The Marine Recreational Fisheries present many segments. One of the first outcomes
of the project is to establish a common classification between all participant countries. We try
to explain this diversity with the help of the attached graphic.

From the Economic and Social perspective a first distinction is the difference with the
activity developed in or out of the law. In Spain the limit is established by the use of the
licenses. But in Italy and France they are not licenses, but while in France this activity present
policies similar to those in Spain in Italy is almost all legal.

The recreational fisheries also comprises from management purposes, the continental
fisheries (important in Pyrenees, Delta Rivers as Ebro and Rhone and dams). This kind of
activity is not considered in SFITUM.

Other kind of activity is the fishery by pole from the shore fishing. Do not suppose
significant expenses from users, but can incentive the tourist activity. They activity affect
littoral species and interfere in certain areas with swimming and scuba watching activities. No
data is available on this fishery at this moment, but with the survey developed in Catalonian
we can beginning to evaluate the importance of this and the precedent presented segments
(excluded the illegal activity).
 In the Mediterranean, although both the value and the understanding of the value of
RF are at the relatively under-developed stage, researchers and managers would be able to
benefit from the methods in use in other regions around the world, such as those provided
below.

Current economic valuation techniques for Recreational Fisheries

Current economic valuation techniques can be divided into three sub-categories:

1. Revealed-preference approaches:
Travel cost: valuations of site-based amenities are implied by the costs people incur to
enjoy them improved sport (e.g.fishing activities, fishing tour)

Market methods: Valuationas are directly obtained from what people must be willing to
pay for the service or good (e.g. ecolabelling price differentials, increased value of a
fishery)

Hedonic methods: The value of a service is implied by what people will be willing for a
service through purchases in related markets, such as housing markets (e.g. recreational
vessels purchases, housing purchases on coastal areas and waterfronts)

Production approaches: Service value are assigned from the impact of those services on
economic outputs (e.g. increased efficiency from by catch reduction methods improved
CPUE in fishery

2. Stated-preference approaches:

Contingent valuation: People are directly asked their willingness to pay or accept
compensation for some change in ecological service (e.g. coastal reef preservation,
endangered species protection)

Conjoint analysis: People are asked to choose or rank different service scenarios or
ecological conditions that differ in the mix of the conditions (e.g. MPA with varying
levels of permitted human activities.

3. Cost-based approaches:

Replacement cost: The loss of a natural system service is evaluated in terms of what it
would cost to replace that service ( e.g. alternative coastal livelihoods )

Avoidance cost: A service is valued on the basis of costs avoided, or extent to which it
allows the avoidance of costly averting behaviours, including mitigation ( e.g.
participatory fisheries management reduces conflicts, health benefits of fish products).
 The travel cost methods, used extensively in the United Kingdom, USA and in several
Nordic countries, is based on the concept that people spend time and money travelling to a
recreational site and that these expenditure, or costs can be treated as revealing the demand
for a site. Surveys of site visitors are undertaken to determine the demand for a site where
visit rates are a function of travel expenditure and time, income, any entry fees, environmental
characteristics and the availability of substitute sites( Hickley and Tompkins, 1998. In
France, for example, five categories of expenditures incurred by recreational salmon fishers
were identified: transport, accommodation, catering, fishing equipment and fishing rights.
Accounting for all these aspects, the average cost (or investment) per fisher of a salmon
fishing season in 1995 was calculated at 2137 $. Sport fishermens total expenses spent,
within the Department were 302219$ (1995). In Italy , the annual expenses of the whole fleet
for tuna recreational fishing were estimated at approximately 42 million (SFITUM, 2004).
In Spain , the questionnaire-based survey permitted the estimation of the total annual catch
for each vessel and then for the entire Spanish recreational fleet, the costs associated with
each kilogram of harvested fish and the total annual expenses of the recreational fishing fleet.
According to the Spanish study, the total annual expenses of the recretional fleet varied from
534 to 845 million, the higher value includes vessel purchase expenditures. In Cyprus,
marine boat-based RF has long been a popular activity and an estimated $2 million were
invested in gear and boats by about 300 people. These data refer only to boat-based RF as
data for shore-based RF were not available even thouh shore-based RF was thought to be the
most popular mode of fishing, with several thousand participants annually.

Although preliminary and incomplete, these estimates are first steps in understanding
the socio-economic value of Recreational Fisheries and, when combined biological/ecological
data, could be usedin more holistic and integrated management of aquatic resources.
Regarding relevant economic and social information, the minimal information needs are catch
declarations (including sport fishing catches as well as daily catches), and license report (e.g.
number of licensed anglers). These minimal data will permit the evaluation of the fishing
effort as well as the size of the recreaational fishing commnity.

Italy is considered the cradle of Fishing, is the only EU country to have this activity
through a structured analysis and organization of special legislation in order to give more
assurance to fisherman and to provide greater security for tourists board.
LICENCE REGIMES FOR RECREATIONAL FISHERIES IN THE
MEDITERRANEAN

Countrie Shore- Boat-based Underwater Licence Licence

s based fishing fishing issuing eligibility
fishing institution restrictions

Albania No licence is Licence is Licence is not Minister of Sport

required if a fishing
Required required (no agriculture
(Article 23 vessel is used to and associations
of precisions or
conduct such within food (Art 23
law No. of interested
7908 fishing laws).
operations Law No. persons
of 1995). 7491 who
(Article 23 of
law 05/04/1995). satisfy the

No. 7908 of criteria

1995). mentioned
at

the point 3
of

the Article
56

of Fisheries

Regulations

No. 1 of
1997.

Algeria Licence required (Art. 13 of the Executive Decree Administratio n.a.

No. 03- n

481 of 13/12/03). responsible

for

fisheries (Art.
63 of the
Executive

Decree No.
 03-

481 of
13/12/03)

Croatia Any individual, whether a Croatian or a foreign Licence n.a.

citizen, issued

wishing to engage in sport and recreational fishing by a field

office
activities is required to obtain a licence (Articles
31 of the of the
Ministry
Marine Fisheries Act of 1997).
responsible
for

marine
fisheries

(Articles 32
of

the Marine

Fisheries Act
of

1997).

Cyprus According to Regulations 3 and Licence is not Department n.a.

4 of of
required for
the National Fisheries Law, a Fisheries and
underwater
licence/permit is needed to Marine
practice recreational Research
fishing
RF. (DFMR).
(Regulation 17
(1) and
Regulation 17

(2) of the
National

Fisheries Law
Egypt Shore based The licence is Licence required n.a

licence are issued to the only in the zone

issued. of Cape
owner of the Mohammed
boat and is valid
both for him and Sharm
and the Elsheikh
accompanists.1
68 (Art. 1 of

Participants in Resolution No.

the sport contest 64 of the
are not required Ministry of
to hold a RF transport
regulating
licence.
diving sport in
the zone of Cape

Mohammed and

Sharm El-sheikh
of 2 February
2003).

France There is no licence required for Underwater recreational Older than

fishermen 16
marine recreational fishing in
France must every year do a statement years
to the
from shore and boats.
decentralized departments of the

maritime affairs which issue a

receipt (rcpiss).

Individuals holding licences

delivered by a sports federation

authorized by the Sports

Ministry are

exempted from these annual

declarations.

Italy No licence is required to engage in RF within Italian waters. But individuals

 involved in sporting

competitions are required to be members of a national sport fishing federation and

to report catch

data (Presidential decree No1639/1968).

Lebanon Amateur Amateur marine Amateur Ministry of Foreign

marine fishing licence underwater Agriculture- tourists are

fishing is required. fishers require
licences to fish Department permitted to
licence is with spearguns of
practice
required. (Art. 4 of of Fisheries & underwater
Decree No. Wildlife
1/126 May 23, issues fishing on
2001).
underwater condition
To use diving that
fisheries
equipment, a licence they belong
to
certificate is (Art. 4 of
an
needed. It is Decree internationa
issued by a Club No. 1/126 l
or May
institute/academ underwater
y. 23, 2001 and
Art 100 of fishing club
(Art. 5 of Decree No.
and obtain
Decree 5246 June the
No. 347, 20, 1994).
required
December 11,
licence
1972).
(Art. 2 of
Annual fee for Decree
No.347,
UFL: LL 5, 000 December
(Law No. 89. 11, 1972).
September 7,

1991).

Malta Vessels169 registered in the national fishing fleet register and are classified as
 non-commercial

Category C vessels require a licence. Vessels engaged in recreational fishing

that are registered

only in the National Maritime Register do not need a licence.

Morocco Licence is Licence is not Underwater n.a. Non-

resident
required. required. recreational
fishing requires tourists
special were

authorization not required

(Art. 4 of Law
No. 1673-255 of have to pay
1973). for having
this

special

authorizatio
n

(Art. 4 of
Law

No. 1673-
255

of 1973).

Serbia A permit is n.a. Permit required Permit issued The permit

for the carrying by the can
necessary for of authority of
local self be used
fishing from underwater guns management only
shore by (Art. 22 Law on in by its
means
Marine Fishery charge of holder
of fishing of sport (Article 19
rod and line of
(Article 19 2003). and
of recreation the law on

the law on affairs marine

(Article Fishery
marine
20 of the law of
 Fishery on September

of September Marine 25 2003).

Fisheries
25 2003).
of 2003)

Slovenia No permit or Annual permit An underwater A daily or To be

for sport fishing weekly issued a
ticket is and daily or sport fishing
required for weekly permit is recreational sports
engaging in required to fishing
recreational engage in RF fishing ticket
sport and using an permit, a
recreational fishing ticket underwater gun shall be person must
fishing for recreational issued be a
(Article 29 of on the basis member of
activities fisheries the a
from the (Article of
shore Marine Fisheries public sport
(Article 28 28 (2) of the At of 2002). marine
authorization
(7) of the Marine by
Marine fishing
Fisheries
a federation organizatio
Fisheries Act Act of 2002). of
of n
sports marine belonging
2002).
fishing to
societies the national
(Article 28 federation
(4) of
of the Marine sport
Fisheries Act marine
of fishing
2002). organizatio
ns

(Article 28
(3)

of the
Marine

Fisheries
 Act

of 2002).
Idem

for a person

who apply
for

an
underwater

sport permit

(Article 29
(3)

of the
Marine

Fisheries At
of

2002).

Spain For the For the catch or In Catalonia, The n.a.

practice federative
possession Valencia,
of RF it is onboard Murcia, licence is
issued
necessary to of species Andalusia,
Balearic by the
possess the under specific Regional
Islands
correspondin conservation Underwater Delegations
g of
measures, listed RF licences are
licence Federacin
issued in the Annex required (Article
III, boats must 5 of Decree Espanola de
by the
relevant possess specific 109/95, Article Pesca y
3 of Decree
authorization 131/00, Article Casting
authority of
the 6 of (FEP y C).
issued by the
autonomous General Decree 92/84,

regions Decree
Secretariat
 (Article Marine 361/2003,
Fisheries
3.1 of the Decree 69/99
Order (Article 3.2 of and
the Order
of Article 2 of
26/02/1999 26/02/1999). Decree 61/02).

The Federative

RF licence

(FRFL) is

necessary to
take part in any

competition.

Turkey Open public access. But a document is given to anglers who want to certify their
activities.

Non-Turkish residents can perform recreational fishing by having certificate of

visiting amateur

fisher issued by MARA, valid for 2 years.

Notes: n.a. = not available;

UNDERWATER RECREATIONAL FISHING REGULATIONS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

Country Underwater Recreational Fishing regulations

Algeria For URF, to be more than 16 years of age.

Forhaving the authorization, a medical certificate and an insurance contract are needed (Art. 66 of the Executive Decree No.
03-481 of 13/12/03).

Use of Scuba equipment is forbidden (Art. 67 of the Executive Decree No. 03-481 of 13/12/03).

Limitation of Underwater fishing gears (Art. 68 of the Executive Decree No. 03-481 of 13/12/03).

URF cannot be practice between sunset and sunrise

Use of light for URF is not allowed.

Catching marine organisms taken by trap which belong to other fishermen is prohibited.

Catching crustaceans in any other manner than by hand is prohibited.

(Art. 69 of the Executive Decree No. 03-481 of 13/12/03).

Use of pioche or barre de mine or any gears susceptible to change the habitat of species is prohibited (Art. 71 of the
Executive Decree No. 03-481 of

13/12/03).

Croatia n.a.

Cyprus Use of scuba and underwater flash lighter are strictly prohibited.

Underwater fishing is prohibited in tourists areas.

 (Regulation 17(1) and Regulation 17(2) of the National Fisheries Law.

Egypt Underwater fishing is prohibited between sunset and sunrise

EU Spearguns shall be prohibited if used in conjunction with underwater breathing apparatus or at night from sunset to dawn
(Article 8 (4)).

France For URF, people have to be more than 16 years.

Scuba equipment (autonomous or not) is forbidden. Detention on board of scuba equipment or other similar special
equipment is forbidden except

derogation.

Art 4.III of Decree No. 99-1163 of 21/12/99

It is forbidden for underwater fishermen to:

fish between sunset and sunrise

approach within 150 metres from the commercial vessels

catch marine animals taken by tackles or nets belonging to others fishermen

use light sources

use for catching crustaceansharpoons or special gear for underwater fishing

keep armed spearguns outside water

Art 4.IV of Decree No. 99-1163 of 21/12/99

Underwater fishermen need to indicate his presence by a buoy. Art 4.V of Decree No. 99-1163 of 21/12/99
Italy Use of scuba equipment is forbidden.

Collect corals, crustaceans and molluscs are prohibited.

(Art. 128 bis of the Presidential decree No. 1639/1968).

Safety requirements (Art. 128 ter).

The exercise of underwater recreational fishing is forbidden :

Between sunset and sunrise.

In the port transit area.

In a distance inferior to 100 metres from the boats anchoring outside ports.

In a distance inferior to 100 metres from fisheries installation.

In a distance inferior to 500 metres from beaches frequented by bathers. (Art. 129).

Signage is required. (Art. 130).

Speargun can not be loaded outside water (Art. 131).

Lebanon It is forbidden to:

Approach to 200 m distance boats fishing and also marked fishing nets.

Pick marine animals that are fished by other peoples gear and fishing nets.

Fish lobster by harpoons and spearguns.

Approach to 500 m distance; licenced swimming clubs.

 Use of any kind of light.

Keep the speargun loaded outside the water.

Dive during the night.

Fish underwater by using air compressor fixed on a boat.

(Art. 5 of Decree No. 1/126 May 23, 2001).

Morocco Only snorkel use is allowed.

Angler with a speargun can not approach bathers short of 50 m.

Underwater fishing can only be performed in monitored beaches areas.

Way out and return form the port must be declare.

Fishing between sunset and sunrise is forbidden.

Serbia Sport recreational fishing with underwater gun is prohibited to persons under the age of 16 and between sunset and sunrise
(Art. 22 of the Law on

Marine Fishery of 2003).

Slovenia Use of underwater gun within Slovenian waters is strictly prohibited in the conduct of recreational fishing operations (Art. 29
(1) and (2) of the Marine

Fisheries Act of 2002).

Sport fishing using an underwater gun is prohibited from sunset to sunrise (Art 29 (4) of the Marine Fisheries Act of 2002).

Underwater breathing equipment is prohibited with the use of underwater gun (Art 29 (5) of the Marine Fisheries Act of 2002).
Tunisia Need to be more than 16 years old (Art. 16 of Law of 1994).

Performing URF is forbidden in a distance inferior to 500 m from beaches and from swimming areas, from fishery
installation (cages, nets, traps..).

Performing URF is forbidden in a distance inferior to 200 m from the jetties and fairways (Art. 8 of Law of 1994).

Use of Scuba equipment is not permitted except for scientific reasons. (Art. 20 of Law of 1994).

Detention on board of scuba equipment and at the same time of underwater fishing gears is forbidden except under
derogation (Art. 21 of Law of

1994).

Fishing under sunset and sunrise.

To have loaded the underwater fishing gun outside water.

It is forbidden to use light for URF (Art. 23 of Law of 1994).

Turkey Scuba equipment is not permitted.

 8. Fisheries Management

(ANA-MPA) -- The Maritime Affairs, Islands and Fishing ministry intends to advance a
regulation that will allow fishing tourism by professional fishing boats.

Determination of the terms and conditions for the implementation of such a regulation
are currently underway, and the target is to reinforce the incomes of fishermen on the one hand,
and to provide interested parties (tourists, travel agencies, etc.) more forms of alternative tourism
in the new tourism season.
Fishing tourism is part of the wider framework of marine eco-tourism, and may also
include the boarding of non-crew individuals on fishing boats for recreational and tourism
purposes, accommodation and general provision of specialized tourism services related to
fishing and fish-farming, and services related to traditions and customs.
The development of fishing tourism is viewed as an opportunity for professional
diversification that aims at boosting the rebirth of coastal communities and fishermen who are
facing financial problems due to a reduction in their incomes and in traditional fishing activities.
Further, fishing tourism may also serve as a tool for increasing public awareness on the
environmental problems and principles of sustainable growth to both sides involved: to tourist
agents and their customers, and to fishermen and tourists.

The essence of the fisheries management problem2

1. Fishers first entry the fishery, obtain high catches and make large profits)
2. Seeing the early entrant's success, other fishers are attracted in, which prompts
those already there to increase investment in vessels, gear, to maintain their profitability
3. With the increased fishing effort the size of the stock falls, leading to reduced
catches per unit of fishing effort(CPUE) and cut-throat competition for a limited resource
4. Catch rates and profits fall to the point where, at best, most fisheries can only
break even. At this point, further increase in effort leads to financial loss.

The problem remains, however, of defining what those management objectives should
be. Most of us are familiar with the rather bland statements in official documents that state in
general terms their objectives for doing good. Since every sector's societal, economic and
biological optimum is likely to be different, perhaps the best we can hope for from legislation, is
an exposition of general principles that, if acted upon, should take us in the right direction.1

2 The effects of Fishing on Marine Ecosystems and Community-Stephen J.Hall)

1 The effects of Fishing on Marine Ecosystems and Communities,Gramvoussa
Introduction: Precaution in principle
 In this regard, an important point to stress is that management objectives must be stated
by the authorities that seek advice from scientists. In a comprehensive analysis of the European
Common Fisheries Policy , Holden (1994) argues that, even within the framework of a
relatively sophisticated political structure, politicians have never explicitly stated what they are
aiming for, other than in broad terms which mean all things to all men. As a consequence,
responsibility for setting objectives is usually left to the scientists, most of whom are biologists.
These objectives tend to be purely biological, with little or no account being taken of
economic or social factors; an understandable outcome since these areas lie outside the
competence of biologists. Holden argues that this is a major deficiency of the management
process.
FAO started developing its Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and drew its own
conclusions about what a precautionary approach would mean for capture
fisheries(FAO,1996).The outcome of their deliberations bears repeating:
The precautionary approach involves the application of prudent foresight. Taking
account of the uncertainties in fisheries systems and the need to take action with complete
knowledge. It requires inter alia:
1. consideration of the needs of future generations and avoidance of changes that are
not potentially reversible;
2. prior consideration of undesirable outcomes and of measures that will avoid them
or correct them promptly;
3. that any necessary corrective measures are initiated without delay and that they
should achieve their purpose promptly, on a time-scale not exceeding two or three decades;
4. that where the likely impact of resource use is uncertain, priority should be given
to conserving the productive capacity of the resource;
5. that harvesting and processing capacity should be commensurate with estimated
sustainable levels of resource, and that increases in capacity should be contained when resource
productivity is highly uncertain;
6. all fishing activities must have prior management authorization and be subject to
periodic review;
7. an established legal and institutional framework for fishery management within
which management plans that implement the above points are instituted for each fishery;
8. appropriate placement of the burden of proof by adhering to the requirements
above.

Often the precautionary approach has been taken to mean that human actions are
assumed to be harmful unless proven otherwise. This is an extreme position, but it must be
recognized that all fishing activities have some environmental impact, and one cannot assume
that they are negligible.
 However, while one might prudently require that fishing activities cease if they have
potentially serious environmental consequences, this should stop not imply that no fishing can
take place until all potential impacts have been assessed and found to be negligible. What the
precautionary approach should require, however, is that all fishing activities be subject to prior
review and authorization and that a management plan be in place that clearly specifies:
(a) the management objectives;
(b) how the impacts of fishing are to be assessed, monitored and addressed.

It should also require that interim measures be put in place while a management
procedure is agreed. Finally, the FAO argue that the standard of proof to be used in decisions
about authorization of fishing should be commensurate with the potential risk to the resource,
while also taking account of the potential benefits of the activity.

There is little doubt that if these principles were fully implemented, not only would we
obtain more fish from the sea, but that many of the wider effects of fisheries activity would be
mitigated. But stating the principles is one thing, it is quite another to decide on the actual risk
from a particular action(such as stock collapse) or the level of risk one is prepared to accept.
Unfortunately, the way science is traditionally done has tended to weight debates towards
accepting more risk-prone strategies and reducing the level of precaution.

Precaution in practice ?
Appeals and actions to widen the scope of fisheries management and adopt a more
precautionary approach have often been described as an ecosystem management approach. The
Ecological Society of America defines Ecosystem Management as:
Management driven by explicit goals, executed by policies, protocols, and practices,
and made adaptable by monitoring and research based on our best understanding of the
ecological interactions and processes necessary to sustain ecosystem composition, structure and
function. (Fogarty & Murawsky,1998)
As with all such definitions, precise operational criteria for sustaining ecosystem
composition, structure, and function are elusive at best, but the spirit is clear-we should not be
talking a blinkered one-dimensional approach to natural resource management. Within this
general framework then, it is worth considering those strategies that might be adopted to help
limit the community and ecosystem effects described earlier and minimize the risk that other
more catastrophic changes might occur.
Dealing with uncertainty
Fish population fluctuates, whether because of deterministic chaos, environmental
stochasticity, demographic stochasticity or a combination of factors. Fisheries management must
deal with uncertainty that results from this high level of variability- a fact well recognized by the
fisheries scientists. How can this uncertainty e coped with?
The current strategy is quite straightforward. Every effort is made to obtain the best
estimate possible for a stock's current abundance and future trends and catch quotas are then set
with this current information. There is a substantial literature on how harvest rates should be
adjusted over time in response to natural variability2.In general, however, the best policy to give
acceptable yields and levels of variability involves some feedback mechanism between harvest
rate and stock size so that catches are regulated up or down in response to stock size. A fairly
stable escapement strategy, or some constant catch rate as a function of stock size(which
generally leads to lower variance in catches)can generally be found to do the job( Hilborn &
Walters,1992,chapter 15).If short-term variation can be forecast the best policy will be to
increase effort on a rising trend and decrease on a falling one. The problem of course is the
uncertainty in the forecasting actually making the required adjustments in the fishery.
One resolution to this difficulty of effort adjustment is, in addition to setting annual catch
quotas, to agree in advance on minimum biologically acceptable levels for populations as
management reference points. Within ICES, for example, such a reference point defines(in
principle at least) a stock of biomass level below which a strong conservation strategy would be
required. In essence, this is an effort to define a cut-off point, below which recruitment
overfishing and risk of stock collapse is unacceptably high and drastic management action needs
to be taken. The situation ought to be improved by setting up such management procedures with
industry in advance of the problem. The details of this procedure should include a clear and
agreed specification of the data that should be collected, how it should be analyzed, and the
action that should be taken, particularly should a reference point be reached. Such an approach
has a great deal to comment it.

The CFP(Common Fishery Policy)

The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the fisheries policy of the European
Union(EU). It sets quotas for which member states are allowed to catch what amounts of each
type of fish, as well as encouraging the fishing industry by various market interventions. In 2004
it had a budget of 931 million, approximately 0.75% of the EU budget.
The common fisheries policy has been criticized by fishermen who say it is threatening their
livelihoods, although some scientific research has shown that fishing stocks were in decline long
before the policy came into being.

2 Mangel,1985
 When it came into force, the Treaty if Lysbon formally enshrined fisheries conservation
policy as one of the handful of 'exclusive competences' reserved for the European Union, to be
decided by Qualified Majority Voting. However, general fisheries policy remains a "shared
competence" of the Union and its member states. Thus decisions will still be made primarily by
the council of ministers, as is the case now.
The common fisheries policy was created to manage fish stocks for the European Union as a
whole. Article 38 of the 1957 Treaty of Rome, which created the European Communities(now
EU), stated that there should be a common policy for fisheries.
Importance of fishing
Fishing is a relatively unimportant economic activity within the EU. It contributes generally less
than 1% to gross national product. In 2007 the fisheries sector employed 141,110 fishermen. In
2007, 6.4 million tonnes of fish were caught by EU countries. The EU fleet has 97,000 vessels of
varying sizes. Fish farming produced a further 1 million tonnes of fish and shellfish and
employed another 85,000 people. The shortfall between fish catches and demand varies, but
there is an EU trade deficit in processed fish products of 3 billion.

In Fraserburgh, Scotland, the Fishing Industry creates 40% of employment and a similar
figure is in Peterhead. They are the EU's largest fishing ports and home to the Pelagic vessel
fleet.It is often in areas where other employment opportunities are limited. For this reason,
community funds have been made available to fishing as a means of encouraging regional
development.
The market for fish and fish products has changed in recent years. Supermarkets are now
the main buyers of fish and expect steady supplies. Fresh fish sales have fallen, but demand for
processed fish and prepared meals has grown. Despite this, employment in fish processing has
been falling, with 60% of fish consumed in the EU coming from outside. This is partly due to
improvements in the ability to transport fresh fish internationally. Competitiveness of the EU
fishing industry has been affected by overcapacity and shortages of fish to catch.
Aquaculture

Fish farming is the fastest growing area of world food production. In 1995 it produced
1/3 in value of world production of fish and shellfish. Main species in the EU are trout, salmon,
mussels and oysters, but interest has been shown in sea bass, sea bream and turbot. Community
support began in 1971 for inland fish farming, but was extended to other areas in the late 1970s.
EU support covers similar areas to other land installations, but with additional concerns of
technical and environmental problems caused by introducing major fish concentrations where
farms are built. The industry suffers problems due to fluctuating demand for farmed fish.

The CFP currently has four components:

Regulation of production, quality, grading, packaging and labeling
Encouraging producers organizations intended to protect fishermen from sudden market
changes.
Setting minimum fish prices and financing buying up of unsold fish.
Set rules for trade with non-EU countries
Total allowable catch (TAC)
The CFP sets quotas for how much of each species can be caught. Each country is given a
quota based upon the total available and their traditional share of the catch (Total Allowable
Catch, TAC). This has been a source of contention amongst states who joined the EU after the
system had been set up and so did not have a historical catch share.
TACs are fixed annually by the council of ministers in December. They consider
proposals drawn up by the European commission in consultation with its own scientific advisers
(Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee of Fisheries STECF), the views of non EU
fishing nations and those of the International Council of the Exploration of the Sea (ICES).
Each member state is responsible for policing its own quotas. Different countries distribute the
available stock using different systems.
Fishing controls
Each vessel is allocated an Individual fishing quota for regulated species. Catches and
landings must be recorded. Regulations cover the kind of fishing gear that may be used. Areas
may be closed from fishing to allow stocks to recover.

A minimum size for catch led to fishermen dumping dead fish that were too small to land
legally, so a minimum mesh size was introduced, which let small fish escape to replenish stocks.
Choice of mesh is complicated, because mature fish of different species are naturally different
sizes and require different nets.
Structural policy and onshore fishing industry

In 1977 an aid programe was introduced to improve the fish processing industries. This
includes such things as fish filleting, salting, drying, smoking, cooking, freezing and canning. It
was intended to indirectly assist the catching industry. There has been an attempt to introduce
new technologies to the sector, improve hygiene conditions, and also fund conversions of fish
processing factories to other uses.

Each country is given a target for the size of their fleet. Funding is available to assist
modernization of boats and installations, but also to buy out fishermen to reduce the fleet size.
Money is available for advertising campaigns to encourage consumption of fish species that are
not over fished, or are unfamiliar to the public. Also, grants are available to assist the industry in
improving product quality and managing quotas.

Producer organizations

There are now more than 160 producer organizations (PO) in the EU. These are
voluntary organizations set up by fishermen or fish farmers to assist in selling their product.
Their members must include a minimum percentage of vessels in that sector, not discriminate in
terms of nationality or location of their members within the EU, and must comply with other EU
regulations. Organizations are required to develop plans to adjust fish catches to market
demand. They may require non-members fishing in the same areas to follow the same
restrictions as members.
They are empowered to take produce out of the market if prices fall below levels set by the
council of ministers and receive compensation from the community. Levels of compensation are
set such that price falls as the amount of fish involved increases. Fish stocks may be stored and
later returned to the market, or sold for animal feeds. Buying up of stocks must only be to cover
occasional surpluses.
Tuna fishermen have a scheme where surplus stock is not bought up, but fishermen receive direct
compensation if their income falls.
International relations

Fishing rights to fisheries outside the EU were lost when international boundaries were
expanded in 1976. The EU has negotiated agreements to recover some of these fishing grounds
in return for alternative trading rights with the EU. External trade is now affected by the General
Agreement for Tariffs and Trade (GATT), regulated by the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
 African fisheries communities
The EU has affected the livelihood of many African fisheries communities. By
negotiating the so-called 'third country agreements' with some African governments, the EU is
pushing African fishermen out of the market. It is one downside to such EU policies and
illustrates that improvements are necessary in the EU for dealing with third countries.
Areas of cooperation
Responsibility for fisheries in the Baltic Sea was shared with the International Baltic Sea
Fishery Commission (IBFC), to which the EU belonged until 1 January 2006. The Commission
ceased to exist on 1 January 2007.
Most Mediterranean fishing is confined to a 12-mile (22-km) strip considered territorial
waters. The EU belongs to the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM)
and the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna, which also makes
recommendations for Mediterranean tuna. In 1994 conservation regulations were introduced
banning certain fishing methods. In 1997 targets were set for tuna catches.

Compliance
Enforcement is the responsibility of member states, but there is a community level
inspection service to ensure that member states enforce the rules within their own country.
Member states are also under an obligation to ensure that their vessels observe EU agreements
when operating outside the EU. The regulations are also intended to harmonise penalties for
breaking the regulations in different countries.
Enforcement involves managing quotas and implementing technical measures to preserve
fish stocks. Inspectors may check fishing gear and inspect the register of fish caught. The type of
fish caught is checked and compared to quotas of total permitted catch for a vessel. Checks may
be made in port or at sea, and using aerial photography.
Inspectors may also check fish processing factories to ensure that all fish is documented
and can be traced to its source. EU inspectors check that hygiene and processing regulations in
any country exporting to the EU are satisfactory and of an equal standard to controls within the
EU.
Non-compliance remains a significant problem. In a number of EU fisheries, illegal
fishing accounts for one-third to one-half of all catches.

Funding provision
Fishing was initially funded under the European Agriculture Guidance and Guarantee
Fund (EAGGF). In 1993 a separate fund was established (FIFG), the Financial Instrument for
Fisheries. From 1994 to 1999 the budget for FIFG totaled 700 million ECU. Any grant from
FIFG must be accompanied by a minimum contribution from the national government. A grant to
business must include a proportionate contribution from the business itself. Different rates of aid
are applied to different regions.
 From 2007 to 2013, the European Fisheries Fund (EFF) will provide approximately
3.8 billion Euro to the European fishing sector. The adoption of the EFF was not uncontested, in
particular by environmental groups, as it includes the possibility to fund vessel modernisation
and other measures, which might increase pressure on already overfished stocks.

Fishing and the environment

In 1997 North Sea states and EU representatives agreed a joint approach to identifying
risks to the marine environment. A precautionary approach was adopted to seek to prevent
pollution before damage was caused to the environment. Studies are being undertaken to monitor
stocks of all fish, not just commercially important species.

Criticism

The Common Fisheries Policy has been argued by certain commentators to have had
disastrous consequences on the environment. This view is contradicted by historical evidence
that reveals that fishing stocks have been in chronic decline over the last century as a result of
intensive trawl fishing. According to scientific research published in 2010, the depletion of
fishing stocks is a consequence of mismanagement long before the Common Fisheries Policy
came into being, a statement illustrated by the fact that UK catches have declined by 94% over
the last 118 years.

Economists and historians recognize that common land tends to be over farmed and
overused, and in a similar vein the absence of property rights in the waters around the UK has
led to overfishing such that the price of fish and seafood has rocketed. Whereas oysters were for
hundreds of years the food of the poor, now they are a luxury. Cod stocks have been on the
decline for some time, as have all other varieties of fish. Innovators are starting to come up with
fish "farms" to get over this problem. To compound this problem, EU quotas mean that a huge
number of fish are thrown overboard after being caught; yet as they are dead, this does not
alleviate the problem as it was intended. Indeed, it just makes the fish at market all the more
scarce and prices even higher.
The Common Fisheries policy has been a major reason for countries with big fish
resources coupled with small home markets, like Norway and Iceland, the Danish dependencies
Greenland and the Faroe Islands and some more dependencies, to stay outside the European
Union.
Management

Subsidiarity
An oft-voiced criticism of the CFP is its centralised,top-down approach to management;
although Member states are responsible for the policys implementation and enforcement, the
EU adopts sole competence in the creation of proposals and the making of decisions. The
Commission is exclusively responsible for the setting of total allowable catches(TAC) and the
allocation of national catch quotas to Member States. Although Member States hold some
responsibilities, such as the distribution of quotas, it is argued that the EU retains too much
authority over fisheries management. Furthermore, critics maintain that the organisation is ill-
suited to the task of fisheries management as it lacks sufficient understanding of fisheries, and is
too far removed from the realities of the industry to set accurate TACs and quotas.The command
and control method characterised by the CFP is no longer deemed an effective form of fisheries
management, and advocates of CFP reform consider a shift from traditional government to
participatory third-order governance incorporating the fisheries industry and Member States, to
be vital to the success of the policy.
Consequently, it is suggested that the management of the CFP could be improved through
the application of the theory of subsidiarity- the principle that political decisions should be
handled at the lowest, least centralised competent level. The subsidiarity principle was
introduced into EU policies as part of the 1992 Maastricht Treaty however, it does not apply to
areas such as the CFP over which the Community retains exclusive competence. A partial
devolution of authority, for example involving Member States in the decision-making process
and delegating the day-to-day management of fisheries to industry-based organisations, could
potentially facilitate the inclusion of industry concerns into the CFP, involving those directly
affected by the policy in management decisions and creating to a CFP which encourages
compliance and collaboration.

The call for application of the subsidiarity principle to the CFP lies within the argument
for its decentralization. Decentralization featured prominently in discussions related to the 2002
CFP reform, but the reform itself actually increased centralization within the CFP, removing the
right of Member States to block quota proposals and increasing the EUs role in enforcement.
This increasing monopoly and disregard for the wishes of the fisheries industry led to alienation
of stakeholders and resulted in reduced compliance. The failure of this increasingly centralized
reform has proven to decentralization advocates that stakeholder participation in the governance
process is crucial to the future success of fisheries governance.
However, some critics argue that applying the subsidiarity principle to the CFP may not improve
the policys effectiveness, as it may lead to what de Vivero et al term the participation paradox-
the theory that the greater the number of actors involved in the decision-making process, the less
significant the contribution made by each actor, and the smaller the participatory role played in
the policy process. Greater devolution within CFP decision-making may therefore silence the
voice of the fisheries industry as it competes with other state, private and civil actors to whom
authority is also granted. Thus, although the subsidiarity principle can facilitate the government-
to-governance transition advocated by many in relation to reform of the CFP, the participatory
role of key stakeholders affected by the policy must be maximized in order to ensure the
development of an effective and equitable Common Fisheries Policy.

History

1970
The first rules were created in 1970. When the fisheries policy was originally set up the
intention was to create a free trade area in fish and fish products with common rules. It was
agreed that fishermen from any state should have access to all waters. An exception was made
for the coastal strip, which was reserved for local fishermen who had traditionally fished those
areas. A policy was created to assist modernization of fishing vessels and on-shore installations.

1976
In 1976 The EU extended its fishing waters from 12 miles to 200 miles (22.2 km to
370.4 km) from the coast, in line with other international changes. This required additional
controls and the CFP as such was created in 1983. This now had four areas of activity:
Conservation of stocks, vessels and installations, market controls, and external agreements with
other nations.

1992
It was determined that there had been overinvestment in vessels, overfishing and that
numbers of fish landed were decreasing. The review identified a need to improve compliance
with the regulations. This led to a tightening of regulations and better monitoring of individual
vessels. A second review was planned for 2002

1995
Although fishing could be managed by reducing the fleet size, available fish vary from
year to year too much to make this sensible. So a permit system was introduced stating where
and when boats are allowed to fish. Scientific studies were commissioned to better determine
available stocks and guide allocation of permits.
2009
In 2009, the EU Commission launched a wide-ranging debate on the way that EU
fisheries are managed. It received very valuable contributions from EU citizens, organizations
and EU-countries and published a report on the consultation.

Chapter 9: Mitigating effects (The effects on Fishing on Marine Ecosystems and

Communities)
By-catch and discards
With respect to environmental effects, by-catch and discarding is probably one of the
most important problems facing the global fishing industry today. Discarding is also a source of
conflict between fishers themselves as one sector of the fishery can often catch commercial
species which are the target of another and for which it does not have a quota. On a practical
level, handling sorting through unwanted by-catch is also something many fishers would like to
avoid. The first point to make is there is no universally applicable solution. Each fishery should
be examined separately and the relative merits of alternative approach assessed. It is difficult to
see how this can be achieved without the implementation of observer programmes. Someone has
to go out with fishermen and document what is caught and what is thrown back. This is an
expensive undertaking-they are an essential prerequisite for arriving at a successful by-catch
mitigation strategy.
One obvious route to reducing unwanted catch is to increase the selectivity of the fishing
method in some way. In trawl fisheries, in particular, technical advances, combined with a
greater understanding of the behaviour of fish in nets has led to the development of new
methods to increase selectivity. These methods adopt one of the two strategies. The first is to
exploit behavioural differences between the various fished species, using devices such as
separator trawls, modified ground gear and others.
The second approach is to exploit the different sizes of species. In many fisheries is the
capture of undersized fish that is the main problem and regulation of minimum permissible mesh
size is, of course, a cornerstone of most fisheries management regimes.
 8. About Fourni Island

Area: 30.5 km2

Coastline length: 74 km
Population: 2000, (300 fishermen)
Island capital and its population: Fournoi (1,033)
Administrative structure: Region of North Aegean, Prefecture of Samos, Province of Ikaria,
Municipality of Fournoi
Archaeological sites and monuments: Part of a Cyclopean Wall, acropolis and a sanctuary at
the hill of Agios Georgios, Relics of an ancient temple at Kamari, Relics of an ancient temple at
Agia Triada Chrysomilias
Natural monuments: The island has been included in the European network "NATURA 2000"
and has been declared Area of Natural Beauty
Cultural clubs: Fournoi Youth Association
Religious feasts: Dormition of the Virgin Mary at Fournoi (August 15th), On the eve of the
Decapitation of St John at the Monastery of St John (August 28th), Easter.

Eastern Aegean island, close to the southwestern part of Samos and the eastern part of
Ikaria (Agios Kirykos). It is one of the Fournoi group of islands, comprising of 3 islands
(Thymaina, Fournoi, Agios Minas) as well as smaller skerries, with Fournoi being the largest
island.

The flora and the fauna of the island, though insufficiently studied, are particularly
interesting. Therefore, Fournoi has been included in the Natura 2000 programme. A lot of
aromatic plants, with thyme, savory, sage and briar dominating, are abundant on shaly ground,
while the lentisk, the bearberry and the dwarf juniper are abundant on limestone ground. Of
course, there are olive groves as well.

The fauna of Fournoi is of equal importance. Mediterranean Monachus monachus seal

populations, threatened by human intervention, as well as several dolphin and sea turtle species
live within the sea area. Fournoi has been included among the 196 important bird areas of Greece
(I.B.A.G.), since birds as the Eleonoras Falcon (a kind of hawk), the Benellis Eagle and the
Alectoris chukar (partridge) propagate on the island. It is also an area of vital importance to
migrant species, especially herons.
 There are two large settlements on Fournoi: the village of the same name, which is the
port, the capital of the island and the head office of the municipality and all authorities, and
Chrysomilia. There are smaller settlements too, such as Kambi and Kamari. It is very important
that nowadays, while other small islands are deserted, the population of Fournoi is irreducible
from the time before World War II onwards. A high percentage of the population work as sailors,
while the islands modern fishing fleet has made it one of Greeces largest fishing centers.
Most inhabitants on Fourni live of fishing, agriculture or farming, and part of them work
in the tourism industry. On the island are a number of beautiful beaches such as Vlychada,
Vitsilia, Petrokopio, Elidaki and Bali. In earlier times Fourni was called Korseon and it was the
site of pirates.

Fourni is a fishing island with a wonderful coastline. It seems to be a fascinating hamlet

adorned with mulberry trees, lined up in a beautiful array from the harbor to the village square.
The island has some amzing hidden coves with sandy beaches and crystal water.

Fourni it is a perfect destination for nature- orientated travelers to visit. It is ideal for
people who like peace and quit. There are no extensive road network on Fourni and the island is
ideal for making walks. There are not a lot of cars and there is only 1 taxi. It is possibly to hire a
motor bike, but there is no car rental on the island. More people have a fishing boat that a car. A
few kilometers outside Furni town the asphalt road stops and turns into footpaths. However, the
island is on the move and with tourism in the back of the heads they are working quickly on the
road network and asphalt will appear on more roads pretty soon.

The climate is arid and hot during summers. Winters are rather mild with average rainfall
but constant strong archipelagic winds prevail.

Communication is often interrupted during the winter period (mostly from November to
April) due to bad weather, mainly strong winds. The rest of the year regular communication with
the islands of Ikaria and Samos (by boat only) is available. Since 2008 a ferry coming from
Samos reaches Athens stopping also in Icaria and Paros.

The Greek state has marked Fournoi as an area requiring special protection.

Fishing Tourism to be Promoted in Greece

The Maritime Affairs, Islands and Fishing ministry intends to advance a regulation that
will allow fishing tourism by professional fishing boats.
 Determination of the terms and conditions for the implementation of such a regulation are
currently underway, and the target is to reinforce the incomes of fishermen on the one hand, and
to provide interested parties (tourists, travel agencies, etc) more forms of alternative tourism in
the new tourism season.
Fishing tourism is part of the wider framework of marine eco-tourism, and may also
include the boarding of non-crew individuals on fishing boats for recreational and tourism
purposes, accommodation and general provision of specialized tourism services related to fishing
and fish-farming, and services related to traditions and customs.
The development of fishing tourism is viewed as an opportunity for professional
diversification that aims at boosting the rebirth of coastal communities and fishermen who are
facing financial problems due to a reduction in their incomes and in traditional fishing activities.
Further, fishing tourism may also serve as a tool for increasing public awareness on the
environmental problems and principles of sustainable growth to both sides involved: to tourist
agents and their customers, and to fishermen and tourists. (ANA - MPA)
Currently a fishing licence is required for any individual aboard a fishing boat, however
large or small. The licence applies to the individual rather than the boat so individuals are
currently not allowed to even go along for the ride without holding a licence.

9. Implementation of fishing tourism on Fourni Island

A. Key principles for fishing tourism

1. Recreational fishing should be managed as part of the total fisheries resource to ensure quality
fishing, and to maintain fish stocks and their habitats, for present and future generations.

2. Aquatic habitats and ecosystems of the country are part of the environmental endowment of all
communities, and are the key to a healthy fisheries resource which requires protection,
restoration and enhancement.

3. Government, in its stewardship role, must encourage and assist the community to be involved
in all aspects of fisheries management.

4. Fishing tourism and the recreational fishing industry should participate in the protection and
management of their fishing heritage to ensure that it is available for future generations.

5. Community consultation at State/Territory and local levels should be a key component of

recreational fisheries management programs.
6. Recreational fishers are entitled to a fair and reasonable share of fish resources taking into
account long term sustainable yields; the rights and entitlements of others and the need to
optimise community returns from available stocks.

7. Recreational fishers should be encouraged to adopt their own Codes of Practice consistent
with the goals of this policy.

8. Preference should be given to recreational fishing methods in which the fisher is present and
which aim to catch target species.

9. The catching of fish for sale or profit, including barter, by fishing tourism is unacceptable.

10. Programs, consistent with the goals of this policy, which seek to increase fishing tourism
opportunities throughout Greece should be encouraged.

11. Reasonable physical access to recreational fishing areas should be provided for throughout
Greece.

12. Community awareness, education and enforcement programs should focus on encouraging
positive changes in community attitudes to develop a stronger conservation ethic.

13. The economic, educational, health and other social benefits of fishing tourism should be
widely recognised and actively promoted.

14. Fisheries management decisions should be based on sound information including fish
biology, fishing activity, catches, and the economic and social values of recreational fishing.

15. Adequate funding and support should be provided to manage fishing tourism as part of
integrated resource and environmental management strategies.

16. Recreational fishers should continue to contribute to the cost of managing and developing
fishing tourism.

B. Habitat the key to a healthy fisheries resources

All levels of government should initiate urgent action to ensure the conservation of critical
habitats for wild fish. Such action should include legislative protection for known spawning and
nursery grounds; increased research on the ecological and economic functions and significance
of these areas; and steps to restore habitats and ameliorate existing impacts. Fisheries resources
and their aquatic habitats are national assets which require protection by the general community
as part of the environmental endowment of all Greeks.
 It is no longer sufficient to reduce or control habitat destruction. The aquatic habitat must be
They maintained, restored or improved to increase productivity, particularly inshore seagrass
areas. The community and government authorities must recognise the importance of a healthy,
productive environment if recreational fishing is to prosper in the future. The success of any
management is dependent on the environment being able to allow natural reproduction and
recruitment for all except the few species in limited areas which can be supplemented through
stocking.

However, stocking should not be seen as a substitute for loss of natural reproduction and
recruitment caused by habitat degradation. Indeed, stocking of native or exotic species outside
their normal range needs careful assessment to avoid any negative side-effects. It is the
responsibility of the entire community - not just fishers - to insist that water quality be
maintained at an appropriate level, and if necessary improved, in all aquatic environments.

Long-term degradation of the aquatic environment will not only result in a reduced
quality of fishing, but will also affect many other water-based recreational pursuits. Our
waterways are indicators of the health of adjacent environments and their catchments.

C. The role of Government

Fish are a common property resource that know no borders. Many migrate from one state
water to another, and from Greece waters too . All species are dependent on a food chain which
relies on the environmental quality of their habitats. For these reasons, it is need develop a co-
ordinated strategy to manage aquatic resources. Decisions can no longer be made in isolation.

As custodians of the resource, governments have a special responsibility to achieve

ecologically sustainable fisheries. They must ensure prudent management which safeguards the
aquatic resource and the environment. At the same time management must allow for the
balanced development of recreational and commercial fishing, and allocation of resource shares
to maximise community benefits.

Government responsibility should include conserving, restoring and enhancing the

aquatic resource, as well as ensuring that fishing tourism is integrated into the overall
management of the fishery resource. Overall there is a pressing need for improved co-ordination
at all levels of government, and this policy is intended to provide an essential framework.

Greece has an important stewardship role in the implementation of this national fishing
tourism policy. It can fulfil this role, where appropriate, through proper consultation with State
and Territory governments and user groups and participation in programs of national
significance.
 There is an urgent need for government agencies to get a better understanding of the
contribution of fishing tourism to tourism, the domestic and international economy, and in
particular to regional development. This is a national database requirement.

The Greece stewardship should involve developing overall community goals and
protecting and enhancing aquatic resources together with State and Territory governments. It also
has specific responsibilities for managing recreational fishing which falls within its
jurisdiction. State and Territory governments have direct management control over recreational
fishing in most areas within their boundaries. Their responsibilities include resource and habitat
protection and enhancement; the preparation of regional development plans; decisions about
sustainable yields; access sharing; interstate and intrastate controls on fish movements and
diseases; and provision of facilities for fishing tourism. They are also principally responsible for
coastal and catchment management.

Fisheries agencies may not have direct control of all these functions, but they, and fishers,
should be consulted to ensure that the needs of the aquatic resource are met by management. If a
national fishing tourism policy is to be successful and workable, each island will need to co-
operate with and consult other islands. This is to ensure that fishing regulations are soundly
based, equitable, enforceable and, where appropriate, consistent throughout
Greece. Management must also reflect the conservation needs of the aquatic environment and
allow for non-exploitative uses, particularly in areas of high conservation value.

D. Community involvement

Improved planning and consultation for resource use has the capacity to alleviate much of
the conflict between user groups that dominates public debate on aquatic resource use and
fishing issues. Such planning will not only clarify resource allocation issues, but will
accommodate a range of recreational, commercial and conservation opportunities to meet social,
resource and environmental needs.

Local economies are a major beneficiary of good fisheries management. Local

governments also have a responsibility to provide facilities and opportunities for recreational
fishing, and to ensure that planning and zoning processes under their control do not adversely
affect the aquatic resource. Fishing tourism should be encouraged to focus on the total fishing
experience, not just the quantity of catch. This policy emphasises the need for a strong
conservation ethic when fishing.
 It is important for all recreational fishers to realise that they should contain their catches
to immediate personal and family needs. Similarly, it is essential that they co-operate with
fisheries agencies to assist in curtailing illegal activities.

The opinion of peak fishing bodies, fishing clubs, the recreational fishing media, casual
fishers, commercial fishermen, community groups and the general public should be actively
sought on management plans or policies of interest to recreational fishers.

Management proposals need to be made readily available and all public authorities
should ensure that fishers are given adequate time to comment on them. The needs of
recreational fishers should be recognised and considered. They should be consulted on
commercial fisheries proposals and other Territory and local government plans and developments
which may affect recreational fisheries or the aquatic environment.

After consideration of all submissions in response to management proposals, reasons for

implementation should be made available. Governments should establish a consultative body on
matters of recreational fishing policy. These bodies must have majority representation by
recreational fishers, with some members nominated by recreational fishing advisory councils.

E. Sharing the resources

This fishing tourism policy must give the right of members of the public to take fish from
public waters for their private use. However, it must also ensure that catches remain within the
limits of the resource's capacity to sustain total fishing effort - recreational and commercial. It is
important for fishers to realise that in many fisheries the recreational take is significant. In some
it may be larger than the commercial component.There are signs of overfishing and stock
depletion in some fisheries, contributed to at least in part by recreational effort. In the area of
resource allocation, fishers should be given a fair and reasonable share of the total fishery.

In fisheries where there is conflict between user groups, recreational fishers have the right to
be consulted before a decision is made on allocation of the resource. The respective social and
economic benefits of recreational and commercial fishing, as well as the impact of other users,
and the status of the resource should form the basis of resource allocation.

Commercial licence buy-out is an option in fisheries where a change in resource share is seen
as the best use of fish stocks from either a social or economic viewpoint. The other side of the
resource allocation coin is that recreational fishers will have to accept constraints in some
fisheries to comply with long-term sustainable yields; the rights and entitlements of others; and
the need to maximise community returns from available stocks.
 All users of the resource, including recreational and commercial fishers, have a common
interest - to ensure the maintenance of fish stocks and their habitats. Rather than each blaming
the other for taking too large a share of a diminishing resource, all sectors need to work together
for its long-term well-being.

Management also needs to accommodate conservation and non-exploitative uses of the

aquatic environment such as scientific research, marine education, underwater photography and
fish observation.

F. Acceptable Fishing Tourism practices

Recreational fishers should be encouraged to develop codes of practice and fishing ethics
which complement the established codes of organised recreational fishing groups. As a starting
point, codes of practice could include these guidelines:

Observe bag and size limit rules and other fisheries regulations, and try to guide other fishers
along the same path.

Take no more than your immediate needs, even if this is less than the bag limit.

Aim to release unwanted or excess fish unharmed wherever possible.

Co-operate in recognized fish tagging programs for research purposes.

Promote fishing ethics by killing fish quickly, using tackle appropriate to the fishing situation,
and frequently attending gear.

Respect the needs of fellow fishers, other resource users including commercial fishers, and
especially the environment.

Treat fishing locations with respect. Don't leave bait to foul rocks and beaches and plastic
packaging or discarded nylon line to pollute the aquatic environment and possibly entrap birds
and other aquatic creatures.

Report illegal fishing activities (such as fish selling by recreational fishers) as soon as they are
noticed, and with as much information as is available.

Work through recreational fishing bodies, the fishing media or government authorities, rather
than trying to deal with such problems in isolation.
 Recreational fishing methods where the fisher is actively involved, or which are selective
in the species and quantity caught should be given preference over less discriminate methods
such as unattended nets or setlines. In addition, management planning for both commercial and
recreational fisheries needs to minimise detrimental side-effects on other species or the
environment. Side-effects which should be considered include: the incidental take of juvenile and
non-target fish and invertebrates; the impact on species at the base of the aquatic food chain; and
the effect on aquatic mammals, birds communities.

This national policy emphasises that there must be recognition of a clear demarcation
between recreational and commercial fishing. Recreational fishing is a sport or pastime carried
out without financial gain, whereas commercial fishers rely on their catch for their
livelihood. Codes of practice among recreational fishers should make it clear that illegal buying
or selling of fish is not acceptable, and such behaviour should attract severe financial and other
penalties.

We all have a responsibility to protect and safeguard this natural asset for present and
future generations. There are comprehensive laws designed to ensure that fishing activities
remain sustainable, and that biological diversity is protected.

Permitted methods and activities of collection

Hand
Hand picking may be used to take fish, gloves are permitted.

Knife
A single blade knife with a blade longer than it is wide may be used to help gather invertebrates.
 Pliers
Pliers may be used to help gather invertebrates except on rock platforms.

Landing net

May only be used as an ancillary aid for retrieval of fish caught when line fishing.

Hoop nets and witches hats

Not more than 5 nets are to be used (or in possession) by any one person at any one time.
1 or 2 hoops per net (no rigid frame between them).
Diameter of hoops should be no greater than 1.25 metres.
Mesh size cannot be less than 13mm measured across the diagonal.
 Drop (length of net) should be no more than 1 metre.
A float/ buoy to be labelled with HN and the name and address of the person who either sets,
uses or lifts the fishing gear. The minimum height of the float being at least 50mm above the
water with all letters to be a minimum of 15mm and in a colour contrasting to the buoy.
The float/ buoy must measure not less than 100mm in all dimensions.
Hoop nets or lift nets must not have any rope floating on the surface of the water.
The net must be dropped and raised vertically through the water by hand.
The net must not be used in ocean waters.
Any rock lobsters or fin-fish (which are subject to a size limit) must be immediately returned to
the water unharmed if caught.
Do not set gear in areas of high boat traffic or navigation channels.

Spanner crab net

Not more than 1 spanner crab net can be used by a person at any one time.
Net must be attached to a rigid frame not exceeding 1.6 metres in length and 1 metre in width.
Net must not be capable of extending more than 0.1 metre beneath the frame when the frame is
suspended in a horizontal position.
The net must be lowered and raised through the water only by hand.
Only to be used for taking of spanner crabs.
The float/ buoy must measure not less than 100mm in all dimensions.
 Crab trap

Not more than 1 trap to be used (or in possession) by any person at any one time.
Maximum dimensions - 1.2 metres (length) x 1 metre (width) x 0.5 metre (depth) or has a
diameter not exceeding 1.6 metres at the top or bottom.
Minimum mesh size - 50mm.
No more than 4 entrances (none of which are on the top of the trap).
The float/ buoy must measure not less than 100mm in all dimensions.
Must not be made of entanglement material.
Must not be set to impede the free passage of fish.
Any fish caught (other than crabs) must be returned to the water.
Do not set gear in areas of high boat traffic or navigation channels.

Lobster trap
 Not more than 1 trap is to be used (or in possession) by any person at any time.
The base or floor of the trap may be either rectangular or circular.
The float/ buoy must measure not less than 100mm in all dimensions.
Circular (not exceeding 1.2 metres in diameter).
Escape gaps are required - either: 1 gap not less than 57mm high X 500mm wide or 2 gaps not
less than 57mm high x 250mm wide or 3 gaps not less than 57mm high x 200mm wide so that no
part of any escape gap is more than 12cm above the floor of the trap.
Lobster traps must not be used in inland waters or any waters more than 10 metres deep
(contour).
Other fish caught in lobster traps must be returned to the water.
Do not set gear in areas of high boat traffic or navigation channels.

Prawn nets

Hand-hauled net

Maximum length of 6 metres.

Mesh size between 30mm-36mm measured across the diagonal.
Must not be staked or set, or joined or placed with any other net.
Must be continuously and manually pulled through the water and not used as a stationary net.
Hauling lines of up to a maximum of 2 metres in length may be used.
Any fish caught which are subject to a size limit must be immediately returned to the water
unharmed.
 Scissors (push) net

Must be attached to a scissor-type frame

Length of the lead or bottom line between the ends of poles must be no longer than 2.75 metres.
Mesh size between 30mm-36mm measured across the diagonal.
Must not be staked or set, or joined or placed with any other net.
Must be continuously and manually propelled and not used as a stationary net.
Must be operated by one person only.
Only one net per person is permitted at any time.
Any fish caught which are subject to a size limit must be immediately returned to the water
unharmed.

Scoop net

Maximum diameter of hoop or ring 0.6 metres.

Minimum mesh size 20mm measured across the diagonal.
Drop (length of net) no more than 1.25 metres.
Must be used by hand and not staked or set.
Must not be joined or placed with any other net.
Only one net per person at any time.
Other fish caught while fishing for prawns may be kept, however, bag and size limits apply.
 Prohibited methods and activities

You are not permitted to:

Fish in waters that are closed to fishing.
Use any methods/gear to take fish or invertebrates that are not specified in permitted methods.
Take or be in possession of fish or invertebrates in excess of the bag limit or of a size outside the
legal size limits. All prohibited size fish must be released immediately. You must not hold
prohibited size fish or fish in excess of the legal bag limit in a live well or use them for bait even
if they are injured or dead on capture
Take, attempt to take, harm or be in possession of threatened or protected species.
Use a chemical or explosive device to take or assist to take fish.

Possess excess fishing gear in, on, or adjacent to waters.

Sell any recreational catch.
Interfere with commercial fishers or fishing gear.
Alter the length of a fish or invertebrate by filleting/ shucking and/ or removing the head/ shell
until well away from the water. This rule does not apply at areas normally used for cleaning fish
such as boat ramp cleaning tables, if the fish are for immediate consumption or immediate use as
bait, or for fish that do not have a legal length. You may clean fish by gilling and gutting only.

Line Fishing
You are not permitted to:
Carry excess fishing lines in, on, or adjacent to waters. Spare lines should not be rigged and
should be properly stowed.
Jag fish (hooking or attempting to hook fish other than in through the mouth).
 Use drift lines. Lines must be held in the hand or fixed to a boat or the shore.
Use abalone gut as bait. This is due to the AVG virus.

Invertebrates
You are not permitted to:
Use hammers, mattocks, chisels, crowbars, dredges or other instruments not specified
in permitted methods.
Retain lobsters or crabs carrying eggs, they must be returned immediately to the water. It is an
offence to remove any eggs.

Retain any rock lobsters caught whilst line fishing.

Collect invertebrates within Intertidal Protected Areas and some zones within aquatic reserves
and marine parks.
Collect octopus from ocean rock platforms or from rock platforms

G. Education and Compliance

Fishing tourism has significant value as an educational activity. It teaches personal skills
such as self-reliance, confidence, and analytical skills, but, perhaps most importantly, it promotes
the concept of responsibility for the fish stocks and the environment they inhabit and we depend
upon.

Effective management of fishing tourism relies as much on the adoption of positive

attitudes by the community as on legislation and enforcement. Education programs should be
aimed at bringing about changes in the attitude and behaviour of many fishers who still have no
realization of the cumulative impact of their activities.

Young fishers should also be key targets in a wide public awareness campaign to instil
the need for responsible fishing practices. Such an approach can help to ensure that the next
generation of adult fishers will be more aware of their responsibilities, and the need for
conservative management.
 Education and compliance should complement each other, since successful management
of fishing tourism is largely dependent on the voluntary acceptance of fishing rules. The
community should be properly informed of the reasons for management decisions - for examples
in relation to key issues such as bag limits and resource sharing - and given a clear lead on the
values and attitudes which will assist in sustaining fish stocks.

Education programs should take advantage of all possible media coverage. In a

multicultural society such as Australia there is also a need for specific programs to deal with
identified ethnic groups.

Effective policing of fishing tourism is not just about increasing fines and imposing
further restrictions. It is about providing a visible presence which makes the would-be errant
fisher think twice about the chances of being caught. This effect can be greatly enhanced if peer
pressure becomes a major force as community values and attitudes towards recreational fishing
change for the better.

Governments and fisheries authorities have an obligation to provide adequate staff to

improve or increase compliance with recreational fishing regulations. Fisheries offences affect
all users of the resource, can have a significant collective impact on fish stocks, and should be
considered a crime. Penalties should reflect the seriousness of offences.

H. Steps which should be taken in consideration in order to improve fishing tourism.

9. The main problems that crisis provokes in the artisanal sector at the local/regional
level are:
- lack of incomes in the artisanal fishing sector due to lack of catches;
- this fact is causing a medium/long term decrease the activity in terms of number of
boats and active fishermen;
- migration of young people;
10. Type of boats, as most of them are small and old;
11. The absence of promoting activities;
12. The limitations and the problems found to develop the infrastructures needed,
specially when working in protected areas;
13. Administrative limitations due to the number of different services involved in the
complexity of existing processes.
14. Limitations caused by legislative problems.
15. To present a detailed list including advantages and benefits that fishing tourism
will report to fishing sector. Such a list should be organised taking into account the
different spatial scales (from local to regional) and the different professional sectors that
are either involved or interested;
16. To promote European initiatives based on the harmonization of legislative and
financial tools. It would be essential to give special attention to fishing activity in the
Mediterranean as artisanal fishing is of great importance;
17. To support general development of infrastructures (materials, promotion, gistic);
18. It has been proved that fishing-tourism can be a good way to reduce pressure
fishing while maintaining local communitys integrity and that could help Greece to:
- diversify and regenerate the professional fishing sector;
- increase fishermens incomes and bring extra benefits for the regions;
- involved while preserving local communities integrity, culture and traditions;
- promote sea and coastal culture and knowledge as well as to aware the population about
the situation of the fishing sector and the role of the fishermen have on coastal
ecosystems, societies and economy, which will help to increase social status of
fishermen;
- attract young people to the fishing sector, which is of vital importance for the future of
the profession and of the fishing villages;
- reduce the seasonal character of the incomes of some fishing-dependent populations. It
will offer the possibility of generating regular incomes for the fishing sector and also to
make them independent from the public economic upport;
- improve fishing boats by adapting them for fishing-tourism activities;
- valorise and conserve sea natural resources through a new sustainable fishing;
References:

1. The recreational fishing in the Central and Western European Mediterranean

frame ,Ramon Franquesa, Ana Gordoa, T. Mina, S. Nuss, Juan Ramn Borrego
2. Franquesa, R., Gordoa, A., Mina, T., Nuss, S. & Borrego, J.R. 2004. The
recreational fishing in the Central and Western European Mediterranean frame. GEM
UB. Universitat de Barcelona. Available at http://www.gemub.com/pdf/recreofao.pdf.
3. Recreational Fisheries in the Mediterranean countries: a review of existing legal
frameworks, Charline Gaudin, Cassandra De Young, 2007
4. Fisheries laws and regulations in the Mediterranean; a comparative study Studies
5. and reviews No. 75, General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean. , Cacaud, P.
2005.
6. Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 2001. Recreational fisheries in Canada: An operational
policy Framework. Available at
http://www.dfompo.gc.ca/communic/fish_man/opera/OPF-PC_E.pdf
7. http://www.phantis.com/news/greece-plans-promote-fishing-tourism
8. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Fisheries_Policy
9. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Agreement_on_Tariffs_and_Trad
10. http://www.gtp.gr/LocPageCat.asp?ID=8338
11. Effects of Fishing on Marine Ecosystems and Communities, Stephen J.Hall
12. Fisheries Management
13. Fishing visitors to the NT YE, June 2007-2009.doc
14. The Social Sustainability of Huntin Tourism in Northern Europe (Northern Periphery
Program, 2007-2013)
15. Socio-economic diversification of the artisanal fishing sector in Greece. The alternative
of Fishing Tourism.