Dissertation (MA Development Studies)This study was carried out in Ilemela District, Mwanza. The objective of the study was assessment of technological application on the improvement of small scale fishing industry in Tanzania. A descriptive study with cross-sectional design and non experimental design were used in order to assess the technological application on the improvement of small scale fishing industry in Tanzania. Questionnaires, In-depth interviews, focus group discussion and intensive documentary reviews were used for data collection purposes. Findings from this study observed that many fishing gears used in fishing activities, but mainly are Nile perch gillnet, tilapia gillnet, long line, mosquito seine, beach seine, set net, traps, mosquito seine with lights. Capture technology is still underdeveloped in the Ilemela District fisheries of Ilemela District. Furthermore, findings revealed that trawling, mosquito seining, beach seining and the use of set nets are found to pose the greatest risk to the sustainability of the fisheries whereas the gillnet, long line, traps and mosquito seine with lights technologies are appropriate. Fishermen are rational in their choice of inappropriate technology. Not only are these relatively cheaper but most fishermen are faced with acute capital constraints. Being cheaper and illegal inappropriate technologies are, in addition, associated with less risk of theft. Finally, the study recommended on the joint effort among fisheries, government and different organizations on the improvement of fishing management and use of proper and modern fishing technology for the betterment of small scale fisheries and society at large.