The study aimed to learn about how Lao women participate in catching fish and aquatic life in the Sekong River basin. The researchers interviewed 90 people in 6 villages over 3 days. They found that 75 women fish in the Sekong and Xekaman Rivers, as well as ponds, streams and rice paddies. Deteriorating water quality is impacting fish populations and requiring women to spend more time fishing for smaller fish to feed their families. While fishing is often considered women's work, selling fish at local markets expands women's financial roles. Most villages lacked active fishing management committees, though some had women members.