Synopsis Management of water resources is crucial for supporting livelihoods, particularly marginal communities.  The study aims at understanding the livelihood patterns of fishermen within the Tungabhadra sub basin, a tributary of river Krishna located in peninsular India. Household surveys, focus group discussions and interviews were carried out in order to understand the currents status, besides trying to identify key issues and constraints that curtail fisheries development.  Lack of integrated approach in development initiatives and water management plans warrants the need for Integrated Water Resource Management to support livelihoods.