The Paadu fishing system of Ennore Creek, India: A case study of community-based rotational fisheries management

Srisanthoshram R K; Gopinath R; Dinesh N

doi:10.21077/ijf.2026.73.3.179327-04

Authors

Srisanthoshram R K Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies
Gopinath R
Dinesh N

https://doi.org/10.21077/ijf.2026.73.3.179327-04

Keywords:

Paadu, Traditional fishing methods, Community based fisheries management, Ennore creek, Prawn fishery, Stake net

Abstract

Traditional fisheries management systems play a crucial role in regulating access to common aquatic resources, yet the Paadu fishing system of Ennore Creek has remained undocumented. This study documents and analyses the structure, operation, and governance of the Paadu fishing system practised by fishing communities dependent on Ennore Creek, Tamil Nadu, South India. A qualitative approach was employed, combining field observations, fisher interviews, and GPS-based participatory mapping of Paadu fishing grounds. The study identified 60 Paadu fishing grounds, of which 49 are actively used under a rotational access system involving Mugathuvara Kuppam and Kattu Kuppam villages. Gear-based differentiation was observed, with stake-net shrimp fisheries governed by Paadu rules, while Shivanpadai Kuppam relies exclusively on cast-net fishing without Paadu access. Environmental pressures, including pollution, siltation, and the spread of invasive mussels, were found to affect fishing operations and resource sustainability. Overall, the Paadu system functions as an effective community-based fisheries management institution.

Keywords: Aquatic resources, Prawn fishery, Stake net, Traditional fisheries management

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