My boat my identity: Investment in tuna fishing in Viet Nam

Abstract

This research examines the issue of boat development, from the perspective of boatowners in the context of the Vietnamese tuna longline commercial fishery. In particular, it seeks to better understand fishers’ decision to acquire their first fishing boat. This research employed a constructivist grounded theory method, using qualitative data generated from interviews, observation and collected documents. The study finds that fishers’ decision to acquire their first fishing boat is, primarily, a commitment to work long term in the fishing occupation, to maintain and develop one’s identity as a fisher. Aside from that, fishers are also motivated by the financial and non-financial rewards of fishing, particularly with tuna as a highly prized export. Non-financial rewards refer to aspects of job satisfaction such as being one’s own boss, thrill of the activity, the social company and passion for the sea.