Observations and interviews with fishermen along the riverbanks revealed the prevalent use of various canoe and speed boat types, ranging from basic vessels to small motorized boats, for both diurnal and nocturnal fishing. Traditional fishing methods remain common, including the deployment of fishing nets such as cast nets, seine nets, and gillnets (reported by 85% of interviewed fishermen), as well as the use of hand lines and rods with baited hooks 60%. Fish traps or pots were also utilized by a smaller proportion of fishermen 30 %.
The study examined the operational aspects of these methods, the resources required, and their perceived effectiveness. Notably, fishermen often employed nets in conjunction with two boats to encircle fish, while calabash gourds were utilized for buoyancy and movement in the water 70% reported using calabash). Fishermen strategically identified cooler areas and observed fish feeding patterns (e.g., on insects and bread used as bait) to optimize their catch. Instances of decomposed organic matter attracting fish into nets were also noted.
The research indicates that crayfish constituted the majority of the catch reported by the fishermen approximately 75% of the total catch by weight although other unidentified species were also present. Fishermen reported peak fishing times to be early morning and late at night when fish activity was perceived to be higher. The study highlights the need for further research to identify the diversity of fish species present and recommends documenting best practices in the local fishing techniques.
Keywords: Abuja, fishermen, Gwagwalada, fish, river, boat usage, fishing methods, catch composition.