The Impact of Fishing Gear and Means of Fishing Site Access on Octopus Octopus cyanea (Gray, 1849) Catch Rate in Zanzibar

The sustainability of octopus fisheries in Zanzibar is essential for local livelihoods and the broader economy. This study assessed the impact of different fishing gears and access methods on the catch rates (CPUE) of Octopus cyanea in Zanzibar, conducted over a year at Matemwe and Michamvi on Unguja Island. The research employed random sampling and quantitative analysis to explore variations in CPUE influenced by gear type and fishing site access. Spearfishing showed the highest variability in CPUE, recording 4.96 kg/fisher/day at Matemwe and 3.01 kg/fisher/day at Michamvi, indicating a strong dependency on the fisher's skill and local conditions. In contrast, metal hooks and sticks showed more consistent CPUEs across both sites, with Matemwe fishers using metal hooks and sticks achieving CPUEs of 2.79 kg and 2.97 kg per fisher per day, respectively. These gears are suggested as more sustainable due to their consistent performance and reduced ecological impact. Significant differences were also observed based on the methods of site access. At Michamvi, paddling fishers yielded a higher CPUE of 2.95 kg/fisher/day compared to 2.54 kg/fisher/day for boat fishers. Conversely, at Matemwe, fishing boats were more effective, achieving a CPUE of 4.63 kg/fisher/day against 2.56 kg for paddling. This illustrates the varying impacts of access strategies on sustainability and efficiency between sites. The findings insist on the need for detailed fishery management that accounts for gear types and access methods, essential for promoting ecological balance and economic growth within Zanzibar’s blue economy. This research offers valuable insights for other fisheries, highlighting the importance of tailored management practices adapted to specific local conditions.