| Ecotourism and Aquatic Sports: Sustainable Management of Fisheries Resources in Coastal and Riverine Recreation |
| Paper ID : 1439-SPORTCONGRESS (R1) |
| Authors |
|
Salim Sharifian * Faculty of Marine Sciences |
| Abstract |
| Introduction: The global expansion of aquatic recreational activities including sport fishing, diving, and water sports has created both economic opportunities and environmental challenges for coastal and riverine ecosystems. These activities directly interact with fisheries resources, requiring integrated management approaches that balance conservation objectives with socioeconomic benefits for local communities. This paper examines the complex relationship between ecotourism, aquatic sports, and sustainable fisheries management. Methods: This study employs a comprehensive literature review methodology, analyzing peer-reviewed publications, case studies, and management frameworks from diverse geographical contexts. We examined environmental impact assessments of recreational activities on fish populations and aquatic ecosystems, economic valuation studies of aquatic tourism, and best practices in integrated coastal zone management. Case studies from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Australia), Philippine community-based fisheries, and Patagonian fly-fishing tourism were analyzed to identify success factors and management strategies. Results: Findings demonstrate that recreational fishing and aquatic sports generate significant economic value, often exceeding commercial fisheries on a per-fish basis, while creating employment opportunities in tourism-dependent coastal communities. However, unmanaged activities result in habitat degradation, fish stock depletion, and pollution. Successful management approaches include marine protected areas with multi-use zoning, community-based co-management arrangements, adaptive regulatory frameworks, and comprehensive education programs. Economic benefits prove most sustainable when coupled with strict environmental safeguards and participatory governance structures ensuring equitable benefit distribution. Conclusion: Sustainable integration of aquatic recreation with fisheries conservation requires holistic management frameworks that recognize multiple resource values beyond extractive uses. Effective strategies combine science-based regulations, community participation, economic incentives for conservation, and adaptive management responsive to monitoring data. When properly implemented, ecotourism and aquatic sports can support both biodiversity conservation and socioeconomic development in coastal regions. |
| Keywords |
| ecotourism, aquatic sports, fisheries management, sustainable tourism, marine conservation |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
