Fishing Sector Perspectives: Perceived Threats in the Polish Baltic Sea Fleet by Vessel Size and Target Species

As ecological and economic pressures mount in the Baltic Sea, commercial fisheries face increasing challenges. This study investigates fishermen’s perceptions of four major threats—climate change, pollution, overfishing, and marine predators—with attention to vessel size (fishing boat, cutter, supercutter) and target species (demersal, mixed, small pelagic). Based on 129 surveys and 28 interviews across Poland, the analysis shows that while all threats are acknowledged, perceptions vary significantly by operational context. Seventy-eight coded interview quotations illustrate how sector-specific experiences shape these views, underscoring the need to integrate them into fisheries governance. Friedman test results (p < 0.001) confirm significant variation across threat categories, with the strongest contrasts for overfishing and predator concerns. Smaller vessels targeting demersal and mixed stocks identified predators as the primary threat, while supercutters and pelagic operators emphasized quota restrictions and international competition. Climate change and pollution were viewed as less immediate, though some reported localized impacts. Incorporating sector perspectives is essential for adaptive, sustainable fisheries management.