Fishing activity and food security: An analysis of the situation of fishermen in Lake Pátzcuaro

https://doi.org/10.33110/cimexus200201

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the food security situation of fishermen on Lake Pátzcuaro, in relation to fishing activity in the area. Fieldwork was conducted with 141 fishermen on the lake (distributed across the municipalities of Erongarícuaro, Pátzcuaro, Tzintzuntzan, and Quiroga). The results indicate that the food security of the fishermen is present in three scenarios: a) the inhabitants no longer engage in fishing, so it does not contribute to their food security; b) fishing does contribute to food security, especially for those inhabitants who do not consider any other activity to obtain a basic food basket; and c) fishing contributes to food security and to obtaining extra income through sales in the market. It is concluded that fishing contributes to food security, but only in two-thirds of the areas where the activity is still practiced.