Traditional fishing gears and fishing methods of Ilocos Norte, Philipppines

This study documents the traditional fishing gears and fishing methods of the rural Ilocano fishermen of which this has not been done comprehensively. It records, identifies, and describes their characteristics that include their designs, mode of operation, fishing grounds and species of fish caught, among others. Artisanal fishermen using the fishing gears and fishing methods from the inland and coastal municipalities of the province were the sources of information. Results of the study revealed that there are 48 fishing gears and fishing methods used which are classified into four (4) categories based on the classification of fishing gears in the Philippines. There are eight of the hand instruments (six coastal, two inland and three common); ten of the traps (three coastal, seven inland and one common); 14 of the lines (11 coastal, two inland and one common); and 16 of the nets (10 coastal, six inland and four common). Fifteen miscellaneous fishing accessories or paraphernalia which are not in the classification were also documented. A variety of marine and freshwater fish species comprising the catch of the fishing gears and fishing methods wereidentified and recorded in their Ilokano and English or common names. These include 44 species of marine fishes, six (6) species of marine invertebrates, seven (7) species of freshwater fishes, and three (3) species of freshwater invertebrates. A documentation of these traditional implements is valuable material to preserve the fishing culture and traditions of the Ilocanos. Researchers and other interested persons may find this study as an important material for further studies.