# Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) Can Guide Decision-Making in Inland Fisheries Management
## 4 Discussion
### Fishing Involvement  
The fishery in Polypytos Reservoir is currently undergoing a transition phase. After a peak in Danube crayfish fishing for approximately five years until 2021, the number of fishers has declined and a return to pre-crayfish fishing levels is expected. Crayfish were caught using hoop nets, some of which were introduced from China, that were less selective and enhanced catch efficiency. Sold primarily for export, at around 3 euros per kilogram to wholesale companies, this lucrative crayfish exploitation has contributed significantly to the economic welfare of the wider area, often referred to by fishers as a \"gold mine\".  
Despite the limited socio-economic importance of inland fisheries at the national level [27], with approximately 400 people engaged in the country's inland fisheries, the sector holds significant economic importance for local communities, especially in rural areas.  
The fishery in the Polypytos Reservoir targets 4-6 species (common carp, wels catfish, Prussian carp, northern pike, and, to a lesser extent, European perch and roach), utilizing various fishing methods, representing a \"multi-species\" approach uncommon in most Greek lakes, that often focuses on a single species such as common carp (e.g., in lakes Volvi, Miki Prespa, and Kastoria), or big-scale sand smelt _Atherina boyeri_ [PERSON], 1810 (in Lake Trichonida) [24].  
The mean annual catches estimated per vessel in the present study, based on fishers' responses, were up to four times higher than those in other freshwater fisheries nowadays [18], underscoring the economic significance of this fishery to the local community. However, while fish stocks in Polypytos Reservoir seemed to recover during the crayfish fishing period, they now face increased pressure, with expectations for this pressure to rise further. In addition, the fact that no national catch monitoring data system exists, that would enable the early detection of the decline of the fish stocks signs, raises concerns regarding their status. To this framework, the implementation of conservation measures, including potential bans on specific fishing gear to allow stocks to recover, should be considered.  
The observed variability in fishing practices and gear dimensions among fishers is attributed to significant changes in the reservoir's bathymetry induced by its dam origin. Fishers must adapt their practices and gears to the specific conditions of the area they fish.  
Increased fishing activity during spring, driven by the common carp's reproductive cycle, poses a threat to the stock. Despite awareness of the consequences, fishers take advantage of this period before the spring fishing ban, underscoring the need for stricter and more comprehensive prohibition during this critical reproductive period.  
Unlike other Greek lakes [18], fishers in the Polyphytos Reservoir do not encounter distribution issues for their catches, likely due to the presence of relevant exporting companies in the region that also provide additional employment in the broader fisheries sector. However, establishing a processing unit for fisheries products could enhance value, benefiting local fishers and the local economy.  
The collapse of the Danube crayfish stocks, once a significant contributor to the regional economy, underscores the inadequate protection of the country's natural resources. Research to investigate the reasons for this collapse in the Polyphytos Reservoir is crucial and could guide restocking trials.