History of Traditional Fishing Methods Traditional fishing methods date back centuries, beginning with catching fish by hand in streams or narrow coastal inlets. Over time, these methods evolved to include the use of spears and harpoons. Later, fishing lines made from palm fronds were introduced, tied to hooks crafted from stones, metals, or strong bones. This development continued with the creation of traps made from palm leaves and fibers to catch certain fish and bottom-dwelling marine species, as well as the production of small-scale fishing nets. All these methods were originally considered part of the blue economy, as they allowed for the sustainable use of marine resources with minimal environmental harm compared to current practices. Phase of Development and Increased Fishing Effort With industrial advancement over the past fifty years, many modifications were introduced to traditional fishing methods. While initially aligned with blue economy principles, these changes have, in many cases, led to overexploitation of marine resources. Key transformations include: First: Expansion in Size and Catch Volume Fishing evolved from simple hook-and-line methods into what is internationally known as longline fishing (locally called “Al-Ma‘dara” or “Al-Madoud”). This method has caused stress on fish stocks, particularly sharks and certain bottom-dwelling species. Similarly, fishing nets shifted from sustainable sizes with appropriate mesh openings—allowing juvenile fish to escape—to massive nets spanning hundreds of meters in depth and width. These large-scale nets have multiple negative impacts: Catching large quantities of fish, including breeding females, which harms fish populations and reduces opportunities for small-scale traditional fishers. Capturing all sizes of fish, both small and large, which undermines sustainability and increases bycatch. When lost or damaged, these nets become entangled in coral reefs, turning into ghost fishing gear that kills marine life and damages habitats. Second: Changes in Materials and Fishing Gear Composition Fishing tools have shifted from natural materials such as cotton and palm fibers to synthetic materials like nylon and plastic. These contribute to marine pollution through microplastics that take hundreds of years to decompose, unlike natural materials which degrade quickly. Fish traps are now often made from iron and metals, which remain in the sea for years if lost, continuing to trap and kill marine organisms while polluting the environment. Heavy stones and metal objects are added to the bottoms of trawl nets to keep them grounded, causing destruction of coral reefs, seabeds, and marine habitats. Human Factors Affecting Sustainability Another critical dimension influencing the sustainability of traditional fisheries relates to human practices: Random and unregulated free diving fishing targeting specific species. The disappearance of the traditional role of the “Moqaddam Al-Bahr” (senior, experienced fisherman), who historically enforced community-based regulations. His authority once resembled that of a court, particularly in preventing the capture of breeding fish and juveniles—a role now largely absent. Mechanisms to Restore Traditional Fishing as Blue Economy-Friendly Practices Transforming traditional fishing methods back into sustainable, blue economy-aligned practices requires adopting responsible and sustainable approaches. This can be achieved through several strategies: First: Recovery Strategy Implementing fishing moratoriums for periods ranging from two to five years, during which all large-scale fishing methods are suspended, except for manual fishing using hooks and simple traditional tools. This requires cooperation between governments and civil society organizations to provide temporary livelihoods for fishers, including: Financial support Exemptions from utility bills (electricity, water) Social protection measures Such efforts ensure inclusive participation and compliance. Successful international models of this approach already exist. Second: Back-to-Roots Strategy Reintroducing traditional, sustainable fishing practices by: Returning to cotton-based fishing lines and other eco-friendly materials Using traditional nets and traps made from natural, biodegradable materials Third: Sustainable Improvement Strategy Enhancing current traditional fishing methods without turning them into industrial practices: 1. Gear Size and Selectivity Improvement Reducing the size and length of nets and longlines Ensuring gear matches sustainable catch levels Increasing mesh size to allow smaller fish to escape while targeting mature fish 2. Smart Design Improvements Introducing biodegradable connectors within nets that dissolve over time if nets are damaged, reducing environmental harm Designing trap doors that open over time, preventing ghost fishing 3. Eco-Friendly Material Innovation Replacing plastic and nylon materials with biodegradable or organic alternatives Using materials that dissolve within 1–3 months if lost, preventing long-term marine damage Conclusion Restoring traditional fishing methods to their original sustainable form, while integrating modern eco-friendly innovations, offers a viable pathway to align fisheries with the principles of the blue economy—ensuring environmental protection, economic sustainability, and social inclusion.