Objective: This study aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of Moshta (fixed-net) fishing patterns in Hormozgan Province during the Solar Year 1402 (2023–2024), with emphasis on production, economic value, species composition, and fishing productivity.
Materials and Methods: The dataset included catch volumes of 34 fish and aquatic species from four counties (Bandar Lengeh, Bandar Khamir, Qeshm, and Bandar Abbas), monthly market prices of each species, and the number of active and inactive Moshtas in 15 fishing zones. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, economic indicators, and Pearson correlation analysis.
Results: The total catch was 384504 kg, with an estimated economic value of 45.91 billion Tomans. Bandar Lengeh accounted for the largest share of production with 181,593 kg (47.2% of the total catch). Tiger shrimp, Biah fish, and crab were the three most economically valuable species, generating 4,888, 3450, and 3,168 million Tomans, respectively. Of the 579 registered Moshtas, only 230 (39.7%) were active, with an average productivity of 1672 kg per active Moshta. Considerable differences in productivity were observed among the studied counties, indicating substantial spatial variation in fishing performance.
Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the current status of Moshta fishing in Hormozgan Province and offers baseline information for fisheries planning, management, and the sustainable use of this traditional fishing method. The high proportion of inactive Moshtas and the marked differences in productivity among counties highlight the need for further investigation of the environmental, technical, and managerial factors affecting their performance