Assessing the suitability of a conflict framework for recreational fisheries in Nova Scotia and British Columbia

Abstract

The recreational fishing experience is highly influenced by the management approach employed in the fishery. It has become increasingly necessary to utilize more precautionary-type and ecosystem-based approaches to improve and/or enhance the sustainability of the fishery. This paper sought to understand the conflict that presents itself in recreational fisheries in two coastal Canadian provinces: British Columbia and Nova Scotia. Additionally, this paper further sought to determine if common conflict episodes in the aforementioned regions could be assessed and potentially mitigated through the use of a conflict framework. This was done using a conflict framework modified from existing frameworks in conjunction with first person questionnaire responses from individuals representing different aspects of the recreational and commercial fishing sectors. The Canadian system of management cannot support this type of framework due to the long multi-level decision-making process; however, there is a large focus on communication as a management tool which increases the possibility of success if a monitoring cycle for communication is implemented. The addition of this stage allows for consistent follow-up and the opportunity to pre-emptively plan for persistent episodes of conflict. In the context of recreational fisheries, instances of mistrust of management processes and distribution of allocation are ongoing persistent problems that may benefit from a communication cycle that enhances the understanding and trust of fishers, stakeholders, and other resource users.