Affiliations:
1Faculty of Law, Mahasarakham University, Kham Riang, Thailand
2Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Mahasarakham University, Muang District, Thailand
3Department of Agricultural Technology (Fisheries), Faculty of Technology, Mahasarakham University, Kham Riang, Thailand
This study examines the legal framework governing freshwater fisheries in the Lam Pao Dam area in northeastern Thailand, focusing on existing challenges and fishermen’s attitudes toward legal compliance. The participants included 20 local fishermen and 3 officers from the Kalasin Freshwater Fisheries Prevention and Suppression Center. Data were collected through surveys, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions. The findings indicate that Thailand’s freshwater fisheries legislation is comparable to laws in other countries aimed at protecting aquatic ecosystems. The law includes restrictions on fishing methods, equipment, as well as fishing locations and seasons. Most respondents had extensive fishing experience and a strong understanding of fisheries regulations. They did not express negative attitudes toward the law and did not consider it outdated. However, they emphasized the need for government support, particularly in providing fishing equipment and promoting alternative sources of income to offset losses resulting from legal restrictions. Such support could enhance compliance and contribute to more sustainable law enforcement. The study therefore recommends greater involvement of local fishermen in policy-making processes, including participation in monitoring and evaluation alongside relevant authorities, to support the sustainable development of fisheries in the Lam Pao Dam area.
Freshwater fisheries, Fisheries law, Legal compliance, Government support, Sustainable development
https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2026.02.016
Muangsean, A., Aengwanich, W., Kasamesiri, P., & Panchan, R. (2026). Legal compliance of freshwater fishermen in Northeastern Thailand. International Journal of Advanced and Applied Sciences, 13(2), 156–164. https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2026.02.016