The publication provides a background to the need for
managing fishing capacity and a review of the technical and policy issues that
may arise. It is addressed primarily to decision-makers within fisheries
management authorities and other interest groups such as fishers' organizations
and concerned non-governmental organizations. Part 1 presents a summary of
recommendations. Part 2 reviews policy and technical issues. After defining
major concepts, the report examines the origin, consequences and dynamics of
excessive development in fishing capacity. The problems associated with free and
open access are discussed, together with the issues that arise when attempting
to manage fisheries under such regimes. Policy implications and constraints are
outlined. Possible management actions are reviewed, including measures such as
economic incentives and disincentives, individual quotas, limited entry and
comanagement. Approaches to the reduction of fishing capacity are also
discussed. Finally, the report reviews selected administrative and institutional
requirements and issues that arise in specific fisheries, such as high seas and
small-scale fisheries.
