The aim of this study was to assess the fishing activities, gears and equipment used by fishermen of Bakolori Reservoir, in Zamfara State, North western Nigeria. Ten fishing villages were purposely selected due to their high fishing activities and from each village, 10 fishermen were randomly selected to make a sample size of 100 fishermen; structured questionnaire was used to interview the fishermen. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools (frequency distribution and percentages) in SPSS computer application version 16.0. The results revealed that fishing was a year-round activity (100 %). However, the most intense fishing period (46%) and highest catches were during the flood season of August/September. Hook and lines and gill nets accounted for 24% and 21% of the total fish catch, respectively. Majority (64%) of gravid fish were caught in flood season. Hook and lines and gill nets were the favourites of the artisanal fishermen of Bakolori reservoir which accounted for 86% each while the lowest was Mamar (0.75 " gill net). The majority of the fishermen (99%) used 0.75"-1.5 " mesh size nets while 87% used hook sizes 11-15. All the fishermen (100%) used Gourds as fishing equipment. Based on the findings front this study, there is need for robust fishing gear regulations considering the dangers of fishing out the reservoir. There is need also for closed season and closed area fishing restrictions to offer protection to the breeding fish species and commercial fish juveniles. Re-introducing Lates niloticus and Cyprinus carpiointo the reservoir may also enhance it fish species biodiversity. Effort should also be made by the Government at all levels to create alternative jobs for the full-time fishermen in order to reduce the fishing pressures on resource.
Key words: Bakolori reservoir, fishing seasons, Fishing gears, Fishermen, Hook and lines, Mesh sizes
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