This manual explains how the different parts of the National Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries (NPOA-SSF) process should be used to successfully complete the stages and steps required for developing and implementing an NPOA-SSF. It is not meant to provide the only way to develop and implement an NPOA-SSF. Instead, it builds on existing experiences from countries that have undergone such processes and encourages countries to adapt the guidance if needed.