Strategi Bertahan Hidup Nelayan Tangkap di Danau Limboto

Abstract

The ecological degradation of Lake Limboto—marked by surface area reduction, siltation, pollution, and water hyacinth proliferation—has significantly decreased fish catches and income, threatening household livelihoods. This study aims to analyze the survival strategies of capture fishermen in Lake Limboto, specifically in Dembe I Urban Village, Gorontalo City. A descriptive qualitative method was utilized. Data were gathered through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model (data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing). The findings indicate that fishermen implement diverse survival strategies: intensification (prolonging fishing hours and expanding fishing grounds), diversification (farming, trading, and odd jobs), and mobility (transitioning to marine fishing for nike fish). Additionally, fishermen adopt social strategies by leveraging family support and social networks, alongside utilizing social media for catch marketing. These findings emphasize that ecological degradation exerts significant socioeconomic repercussions on fishermen. Consequently, sustained collaboration among the government, local communities, and relevant stakeholders is imperative to preserve Lake Limboto and secure the economic viability and livelihoods of fishing households.