Small-scale fisheries play a crucial role in providing food and reducing poverty worldwide. However, these communities face challenges in their living and working conditions. Different countries are looking into managing small-scale fisheries, but there is no universal solution due to their diversity. The current Chinese fishery management model may not be suitable for all situations. It is important to distinguish between small-scale and large-scale fisheries in management to ensure fairness and human rights. A new definition of small-scale fisheries based on operating methods and waters is proposed to protect the rights and promote sustainable development of small-scale fishers and resources.