MEMORIES AND EXPERIENCES OF ARTISANAL FISHING: FISHING COMMUNITIES OF THE ITAJAÍ VALLEY

Abstract

The recorded memories of fishermen belonging to the fishing communities of the Itajaí Valley – SC, hold cultural and historical value in preserving the traditions and art of fishing. The know-how and way of life of artisanal fishing involves cultures that are preserved and re-signified in the family and symbolic legacies of each fisherman. The general objective of this study is to present the memories and experiences of artisanal fishermen from the fishing communities of the Itajaí Valley, Santa Catarina (SC). The methodology adopted is a qualitative approach, based on phenomenological hermeneutics. Data were collected from institutional documentary records and interviews with fishermen from the communities in the municipalities of Penha, Navegantes, and Balneário Camboriú. We understand from the expressed memories that artisanal fishing integrates the local cultural heritage in a set of intangible and material assets, and professional, family, social, and artistic practices that express the knowledge and identities of being a fisherman. The strengthening of public cultural policies for the preservation of artisanal fishing is fundamental in fishing communities.