SUKABUMI – Small-scale capture fisheries using handline fishing gear at the Palabuhanratu Nusantara Fishing Port (PPN), Sukabumi Regency, are facing serious challenges. Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) for Capture Fisheries in Sukabumi Regency recorded a continuous decline in the number of handline fleets, with an average decrease of 2.4 percent annually over the past decade. This trend is considered an indicator of declining productivity in capture fisheries businesses.

A recent study analyzed the condition of handline businesses operating with vessels under 5 GT. Data were collected through surveys and direct interviews with handline business actors at PPN Palabuhanratu. Information on income was obtained from production records and the selling value of catches, while fixed and variable costs were gathered from ship owners.

The study revealed that the income of handline fishermen is highly dependent on fishing seasons. The average monthly profit-sharing analysis showed that ship owners earn 12,579,658 ± 4,222,510 IDR, captains earn 5,031,863 ± 1,689,004 IDR, and each crew member (ABK) earns 2,515,932 ± 844,502 IDR.

When compared with the average monthly income of active fishermen in Sukabumi Regency, which is 3,480,000 IDR, and the Sukabumi regional average income of 3,125.44 IDR in 2023, a disparity is evident. Ship owners and captains earn above the regional average income, while crew members still earn below the regional average. (SDGs 8)

Author: Shafira Bilqis Annida
Source: https://ejabf.journals.ekb.eg/article_427982.html