Fisheries Research

Scientific research intended to improve the tools and techniques used by fishery participants and the quality of fisheries data.

In order to make wise decisions for fisheries conservation and management, it is critical to have “the best available scientific information”.  Unfortunately, it can be costly to get accurate and current data for hundreds, if not thousands, of species encountered by fishermen.  Often decisions must be made making allowances for uncertainties in the science.  This can lead to unnecessarily restrictive measures which cause socio-economic harm to the fishermen, their communities, and support businesses.  Increased fisheries research will benefit the fish, the fishermen and the entire social, economic and scientific fisheries ecosystem.

We need current and accurate data to make wise conservation and management decisions.  Unfortunately, fishermen cannot afford to pay for this work.  The Center actively seeks funding for credible scientific research – from any willing sources, provided that no strings or preconceived agendas are attached.

 

  • Research methods of enhancing the quality of data gathered in recreational fisheries.
    • Smartphone reporting apps
      The Center could design and deploy a smartphone app to provide incentives for accurate reporting by awarding prizes to fishermen that catch fish in specific award categories (potentially species, area, size, etc.). Additionally, the app could include additional self-reported metadata, including collection of photo verification and geolocation data.  Even outside of smartphone coverage areas, the app would be designed to store collected data, submitting it once coverage is available.

     

  • Research into gear modifications to current fishing methods that can maintain economic viability while reducing bycatch and increasing post-release survival of that bycatch.
    • “Pair Hauling” concept
      A gear and technique modification that would limit “soak times”. This technique, if validated, could improve the quality of target species (maintaining economic viability) and could decrease bycatch and/or increase post-release survival of bycatch.