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Crayfish remains one of the most important seafood products in coastal communities across Nigeria, especially in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. It is not just a food item; it is a major source of income for hundreds of fishing families. However, a recent drop in the price of fresh crayfish custard has caused concern among local fishermen and traders.
Just a few weeks ago, a fresh crayfish custard was selling for ₦11,000, but the price has now fallen to ₦9,000. Pictures of the fresh crayfish custard shared in this post clearly show the quality and quantity still remain the same, yet the market value has reduced. For fishermen who depend on daily sales to survive, this sudden change is worrying.
What Caused the Sudden Price Drop?
Several factors may be responsible for the current price reduction. One major reason is increased supply. This period is known to be an active fishing season in Brass waters, and many fishermen are returning with large catches. When more crayfish floods the market, buyers have more options, and prices naturally fall.
Another possible cause is low demand from bulk buyers. Traders who normally come from nearby towns to buy in large quantities may be purchasing less due to transportation costs, fuel prices, or slow business in urban markets. When demand is low and supply is high, fishermen are forced to sell at cheaper rates to avoid spoilage.
Fishermen Express Their Frustration
Many fishermen in Brass LGA have openly expressed their dissatisfaction with the new price. According to some of them, the cost of fishing has not reduced. Fuel, boat maintenance, and fishing equipment remain expensive. When crayfish sells at ₦9,000 instead of ₦11,000, profit margins become very slim.
One fisherman explained that a single fishing trip now requires more effort but brings in less money. “We still spend the same amount on fuel and nets. But when we come back, buyers are offering lower prices. It is not encouraging,” he said.
For families that rely solely on fishing, this drop directly affects their ability to meet daily needs such as food, school fees, and healthcare.
Impact on Traders and Consumers
While fishermen are unhappy, some traders and consumers see the price drop as a relief. Traders can now buy more crayfish with the same amount of money, which may improve their profit when they sell in other markets. Consumers, especially local households, benefit from cheaper crayfish for cooking.
Crayfish is widely used in Nigerian soups such as egusi, okra, and banga soup. A lower price means families can afford it more easily, which supports food security in the community.
However, if prices remain low for too long, fishermen may reduce their fishing activities. This could later cause shortages and push prices up again.
What This Means for the Local Economy
The economy of Brass LGA is closely tied to fishing. When crayfish prices drop, the ripple effect is felt across the community. Boat owners earn less, middlemen make smaller profits, and households feel the pressure.
Market analysts believe the price may rise again once supply reduces or demand increases. Festivals, school resumptions, and festive seasons often bring higher demand for seafood, which could stabilize the market.
Looking Ahead
As the price of fresh crayfish custard continues to fluctuate in Brass LGA, many fishermen are now thinking beyond today’s sales and focusing on how to protect their livelihoods in the coming weeks. The current drop from ₦11,000 to ₦9,000 has highlighted a long-standing problem in the local fishing industry: dependence on immediate market conditions without enough long-term support systems.
One possible way forward is through better storage and processing methods. If fishermen can preserve more of their catch through proper drying, smoking, or freezing, they will not be forced to sell at whatever price buyers offer on the same day. Improved preservation would give them the option to wait for better market conditions instead of rushing to sell at a loss.
There is also growing discussion around the importance of cooperative groups. When fishermen work together, they can negotiate better prices with bulk buyers and reduce individual losses. A cooperative system could also help in sharing storage facilities, transportation costs, and even access to small loans for fuel and equipment. This kind of collective effort could reduce the pressure on individual fishermen who currently bear all the risks alone.
Market observers believe the price may recover once supply reduces or demand increases. Seasonal changes, festive periods, and school resumptions often lead to higher demand for crayfish in urban markets. When traders begin to buy in larger quantities again, prices are likely to stabilize. However, this recovery will depend largely on how quickly the current surplus in the market is absorbed.
Local stakeholders are also calling for more attention from relevant authorities and development groups. Support in the form of training on fish processing, access to affordable storage technology, and improved transportation networks could make a significant difference. With better infrastructure, fishermen in Brass LGA would be less vulnerable to sudden market shocks.
Ultimately, the future of crayfish trading in the area depends on finding a balance between production and pricing. The pictures shared in this post show that crayfish production remains strong, which is a positive sign. The challenge now is ensuring that this hard work translates into fair income for those who risk their lives daily on the water.
If the right steps are taken, this period of low prices could become a lesson that leads to stronger systems and more stable earnings for fishermen in the long run.
For more updates on fishing activities and local market trends in Brass and Bayelsa State, visit https://brassinsight.com.ng regularly.
