This approach to the study of inland capture fisheries highlights a general challenge for fisheries policy-makers, not only in South and SouthEast Asia, but throughout the world. It implies that the forces at work in the social spheres within which fishing households are located are at least as important a factor when considering policy options, as is an understanding of the physical resource. The approach argues not for neglect of the biological agenda, but that methodologies for assessment that are dominated by biological considerations are unlikely to lead to effective policies.