Community Knowledge, Awareness, and Fishing Practices on Fishing Management around Fincha'a, Amarti, and Nashe Reservoirs, Oromia, Ethiopia

The study investigated fishing practices and productivity in Fincha'a, Amarti, and Nashe Reservoirs in the Oromia region, Ethiopia. Data were collected from 160 households across Jimma Geneti, Horro, Abay Chomman, and Guduru Districts. Most respondents (60%) had 2–10 years of fishing experience, and fishing was primarily for household consumption (92%), with only 8% sold for income. Nile tilapia (55%) and common carp (36.9%) were the dominant species, while catfish (8.1%) are less common. Nile tilapia was preferred by 96.3% of respondents due to its availability and market value. Reservoir productivity was estimated at 49–51%, with seasonal fluctuations influenced by nutrient availability (91.3%), fishing efforts (6.3%), and fish behavior (2.4%). Morning was considered the best time for harvesting by 36.9% of respondents. Fishing spans 2 over 20 years, and 73.8% identify fishing as their primary occupation. Most fishermen (76.3%) traveled on foot and transported fish by hand or donkey due to transportation challenges. The study highlights the need for improved infrastructure to improve fish distribution. Overall, fishing in the area is for subsistence, with limited market participation. Nile tilapia remains the most favored species, and there is a need for better infrastructure to support fish distribution.