Fisher participation in research: Dilemmas with the use of fisher knowledge

Fisher participation in fisheries research and management is common practice. However, more consideration must be given to the appropriateness of using participation in situations where changes to fishing policy are possible. This study evaluates fisher reactions to participation in a socioeconomic survey and reflects on some dilemmas with participation as a tool in fisheries management and research. Results highlight the perceived benefits and drawbacks of participating, and are based on participant observation during the oral administration of a survey of local fishers in the Turks and Caicos Islands as part of the ‘Turtles in the Caribbean Overseas Territories’ research project.