Comparative Study of Fish Catch Composition in Artisanal Fisheries of Maiduguri and Lake Chad Basin, Borno State

The Lake Chad Basin in Borno State represents a unique semi-arid freshwater fishery system of regional importance, supporting livelihoods for millions of people in North East Nigeria. This study conducted a comparative assessment of fish catch composition, seasonal trends, and artisanal fishing practices in the Lake Chad Basin fisheries accessible from Maiduguri, Borno State. Data were collected over five months through market surveys at three landing sites and direct sampling using multi-gear methods. Fish specimens were identified, and length-weight data were recorded. Catch per unit effort was estimated for major species. Structured interviews with 80 fishers were conducted to document fishing seasons, gear types, and perceived resource trends. A total of 34 fish species from 18 families were recorded. Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), Nile perch (Lates niloticus), and African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) dominated catches. Dry season catch per unit effort was consistently higher than wet season values across all landing sites. Gillnets were the most common gear, with mesh sizes frequently below the recommended minimum. Fishers reported significant declines in catch volume over the past five years, citing lake shrinkage due to reduced rainfall and upstream water diversion as major causes. Average daily income from fishing was below the national poverty line for 72 percent of interviewed fishers. The study provides updated fisheries data for the Lake Chad Basin and recommends transboundary fisheries management as an urgent policy intervention. Keywords: artisanal fisheries, Lake Chad Basin, fish composition, Borno State, catch per unit effort.