A classification of poachers from the sea: four types to rule them all

Abstract

The poaching of marine resources has been defined as the conscious breaking of fishery regulations, a situation that occurs at severe levels and high frequencies in many socio-ecological contexts around the world. A classification of poachers is fundamental to defining the actors and the scale of poaching. However, proper classification of poachers has yet to be designated, hindering the development of management approaches that seek to recognize and reduce poaching. This paper provides a theoretical typology of four general types of poachers that can be applied in different contexts of fisheries resource appropriation. This classification may help outline better compliance and enforcement strategies, including the active involvement of fisheries users and the consequent improvement of the legitimacy of fishing regulations. Additionally, we recommend measures to assist in the fight against poaching associated with each of the four types of poachers proposed.