<p>Aquaculture is the fastest-growing seafood production system globally, offering economic and social opportunities for small-scale fishing communities. Yet, it is often introduced through top-down, technocratic approaches that ignore the social-ecological realities of these communities. Drawing on four case studies from Mexico and Honduras, this study uses a multistage, participatory mixed-methods approach to examine the integration of aquaculture into existing fisheries. We focus on governance, social organization, economic assets, and cultural traditions, key yet understudied dimensions of implementation. Findings reveal that projects overlooking these interactions risk deepening inequities, displacing traditional livelihoods, and weakening community cohesion. Success depends on early economic support, recognition of local traditions and social structures, and the creation of context-specific governance systems. Centering community needs and experiences can help design equitable, place-based aquaculture initiatives that strengthen, rather than disrupt, small-scale fishing livelihoods.</p>