Stochastic Production Function approach and cost benefit analysis were used in this study to examine
technical efficiency and economic return of artisanal fishery in the Niger Delta, Nigeria. Primary data
were collected from 120 artisanal fishermen selected from 3 major fishing local government areas in
Delta State. Empirical results showed that artisanal fish production is profitable as shown by gross
margin, net returns and enterprise economic efficiency which were N90, 496.03, N49, 377.18 and 0.20
respectively. The results of stochastic production function showed that labour, capital inputs and cost of
baits were significant determinants of fish output, while education, fishing experience, age of fishermen,
fishing distance and household size significantly reduced inefficiency. The average technical efficiency
was found to be 64% indicating that efficiency can be improved by as much as 36%, while production
function exhibit increasing return to scale. Policies for capacity building of the fishermen and better
access to production technology are recommended.