An Evaluation of Socioeconomic Status and Handling Practices Used by Small-Scale Fishermen Along Coastal Areas of Ondo State, Nigeria

The purpose of this paper is to examine the socio-economic status and handling practices used by small-scale fishermen along coastal areas of Ondo State, Nigeria with respect to reduction of post-harvest fish losses. The study was carried out in twenty (20) fishing communities along the coastal areas of Ondo State, Nigeria. Primary data were used through administration of 21 questionnaires to active fishermen from each fishing communities as instrument for data collection. Most (44%) of the fishermen spent 12 hours for their fishing cycle. Result shows that fishermen do not have access to ice for preservation of fish and as a result of this they ensure to come back on time to maintain good quality fish prior to checking. Despite limiting the duration of fishing cycle, losses do occur due to handling practices used. Fish are placed on the floor of the boat after hauling of the nets at the fishing ground and covering materials are not made available for the fishermen. Significant association exist between demographic factors and duration of fishing cycle while there is no significant relationship between demographic factors and where fresh fish are placed. It is suggested that provision of infrastructural facilities such as good road network, storage facilities, covering materials and constant supply of electricity will reduce post-harvest fish losses. This will help fishermen to make more income as a result of good quality fish, improve their livelihood, rural development and ensure food security in the state and country at large. Keywords: Handling practices, small-scale fishermen, rural development, post-harvest losses, food securit