Guwahati, March 21: Angling tourism—once a niche recreational activity—is rapidly gaining traction, presenting both opportunities and challenges for local fish farmers.

A study published in the Journal of Fisheries sheds light on the social and economic impact of this growing trend in Garo Hills.

Conducted by researchers from the Central Agricultural University, Imphal, the study surveyed 100 fish farmers from five districts of the Garo Hills region. It explored their perceptions of angling tourism and its potential to enhance rural livelihoods. While a majority of farmers acknowledged the benefits of angling tourism, concerns over financial risks, ecological impact, and accessibility to younger generations also surfaced.

Angling tourism, often associated with sport fishing, is emerging as an alternative source of income for Meghalaya’s fish farmers. Traditionally reliant on fish farming alone, many farmers in the Garo Hills have started organizing fishing competitions and leasing out their ponds to recreational anglers. This shift has helped them generate additional income through registration fees, fish sales, and ancillary services such as food stalls and camping facilities.

The study found that 55% of respondents reported a significant increase in their annual income after engaging in angling tourism, while 100% of the surveyed farmers agreed that the industry created new employment opportunities in rural areas. These findings align with the larger push for rural tourism in Meghalaya, where tourist arrivals surged from 0.93 million in 2022 to 1.37 million in 2023.

However, participation costs were a major concern. While angling tourism has economic potential, high entry fees for competitions often discourage younger and less affluent participants. Nearly 90% of the farmers agreed that participation expenses limited youth involvement, raising questions about how inclusive the industry can be in the long run.

Beyond the economic advantages, the study also examined the social and environmental values associated with angling tourism. About 73% of the surveyed farmers believed that angling fosters community interaction and does not violate any cultural norms of the indigenous Garo community.

The conservation aspect of angling tourism was particularly striking. Around 71% of farmers agreed that angling tourism promotes fish biodiversity conservation. Events that emphasize sustainable fishing practices help raise awareness about native fish species and the importance of maintaining aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, 88% of respondents noted that angling contributes to environmental awareness and responsible natural resource use.

While most farmers viewed angling as an eco-friendly activity, 58% reported concerns about cleanliness and waste management at angling sites. Overcrowding at fishing spots sometimes leads to littering, making proper site management a crucial factor in ensuring the long-term sustainability of angling tourism.

Despite its benefits, angling tourism is not without challenges. The study highlighted financial risks as a significant hurdle for fish farmers who organize competitions. Nearly 70% of respondents ranked financial loss as the biggest concern, as the unpredictability of participation numbers made it difficult to recover investment costs.

Additionally, the unavailability of suitable fish species for competition ranked as the third most pressing issue. Larger fish are often preferred for angling competitions, but their high market value makes them costly to stock. Some farmers have resorted to introducing exotic species like Pacu (Piaractus brachypomus), which are known for their aggressive nature and are favoured in competitions. However, experts warn that Pacu is an invasive species that can disrupt local ecosystems. The study urges policymakers to regulate the stocking of such species to protect the region’s biodiversity.

The seasonality of angling tourism is another factor impacting farmers’ earnings. Unlike other forms of tourism, fishing competitions are highly dependent on favourable weather conditions. Around 33% of respondents noted that their income fluctuated because angling is mainly conducted during specific seasons.

The researchers emphasize the need for policy interventions to address participation barriers and environmental concerns. They recommend coordinated efforts between Meghalaya’s fisheries, tourism, and rural development departments to create a structured framework for angling tourism. Additionally, they suggest that youth-oriented initiatives—such as subsidies or reduced entry fees for younger participants—could help attract a new generation of angling enthusiasts.

Raising awareness about responsible angling practices is also crucial. The study proposes collaborations between local angling clubs and government agencies to educate farmers on sustainable fish stocking and waste management strategies.

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