Effects of Climate Variability on Fish Catch in Kasena Nankana Municipality of Ghana

Year 2025, Volume: 9 Issue: 2, 191 - 202, 31.12.2025

George Frimpong Enchill Francis Afover Husein Chaani Dia-Ul-Haq

Abstract

Climate variability poses significant challenges to artisanal fisheries in sub-Saharan Africa, yet empirical evidence on the specific impacts of meteorological parameters on fish production remains limited, particularly in inland fishing communities. This study investigated the relationship between climate variations and fish catch productivity in the Kasena Nankana Municipality, with a specific focus on identifying adaptive strategies for fishing communities facing climatic stress. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative data collection through structured interviews, semi-structured interviews, and participant observation. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version, with Pearson correlation coefficients and regression models used to examine relationships between climatic variables and annual fish catch volumes. Data visualization was performed using Microsoft Excel. The analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between daily maximum temperatures and annual fish catches, indicating that elevated daytime temperatures substantially reduced fishing productivity. Water level fluctuations, driven by seasonal precipitation patterns, showed a strong positive association with catch volumes. Specifically, decreased water levels during dry periods corresponded with marked reductions in fish harvests. Temporal analysis identified two distinct productive seasons (April-June and July-September) characterized by increased rainfall and enhanced catch rates. The findings underscore the vulnerability of artisanal fishing communities to climatic stress and the urgent need for climate-adaptive strategies. To mitigate climate-induced fishing losses, fishermen should optimize fishing schedules by concentrating activities during cooler periods (early morning and evening hours). Strategic planning for peak productive seasons (April-June and July-September) is essential to maximize catch volumes during favourable climatic windows. These adaptive measures could enhance food security and livelihood resilience among fishing-dependent communities in climate-vulnerable regions.

Keywords

Climate Variability , Fishermen , Fish Catch , productivity , Temperature impact. Fisheries , Water levels. Water level fluctuations

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