Introduction:

The Ciénaga Grande of Santa Marta is one of the estuarine ecosystems of greatest environmental, social and economic importance in the Colombian Caribbean. However, its fisheries have a strong impact on the fish populations that live there.

Objective:

An experimental sampling of the catches of lisa (Mugil incilis) with a "boliche" encircling gillnet was carried out to estimate the selection parameters.

Materials and methods:

Catches carry out with mesh size of 2, 2½ and 3-inch were compared and evaluated. The selectivity parameters were estimated from the SELECT method. The selectivity curves were adjusted using the R statistical software; while the comparative analyzes of the catch per unit effort were carried out using the Kruskal Wallis test.

Results:

Encircling gillnet smaller than 2½ inches have a direct effect on the smooth size structure and consequently on the sustainability of this fishery. Encircling gillnet should consider applying management measures that prohibit the use of nets with mesh sizes less than 2½ inches. In terms of catch there is no difference (P>0.05) between 2 and 2½ inches, which does not generate economic damage for the fisherman.

Conclusion:

The use of encircling gillnets with mesh size of 2-inch or smaller should be reviewed and agreed upon with the fishermen of the region.