Number range CHAPTER**TITLE: BYCATCH--WHERE WE'VE BEEN, WHERE WE'RE
GOING**

**ORGANIZERS:**

Lee Benaka, NOAA Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, 13^th^ Floor, Silver
Spring, MD 20910 301/713-2341,
[[lee.benaka@noaa.gov]{.underline}](mailto:lee.benaka@noaa.gov)

Geraldine Vander Haegen, Northwest Marine Technology, 955 Malin Lane SW,
Suite , Tumwater, WA 98501 Telephone 360/596-9500, Home office
360/459-7255, Facsimile 360/596-9405,
[[geraldine.vanderhaegen@nmt.us]{.underline}](mailto:geraldine.vanderhaegen@nmt.us)

Patricia Gallaugher, Director, Centre for Coastal Studies, Simon Fraser
University, 8888 University Boulevard, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6,
[[pgallaug@sfu.ca]{.underline}](mailto:pgallaug@sfu.ca)

**DESCRIPTION:** This symposium will focus on national and international
fisheries bycatch challenges and accomplishments.

**FORMAT:** 2-day session with 33 presenters, one ½-hour panel
discussion, and a 1-hour panel discussion.

**MODERATOR:** Lee Benaka, Geraldine Vander Haegen

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 1:40:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-01

**Authors**:

Gallaugher, Patricia\* Centre for Coastal Studies, Continuing Studies in
Science Department, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia,
Canada, V5A 1S6

Farrell, Anthony Centre for Coastal Studies, Biosciences Department,
Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, V5A 1S6

Routledge, Richard Centre for Coastal Studies, Statistics and Actuarial
Science Department, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia,
Canada, V5A 1S6

**Full Title:** Improving the Chances of Survival for Bycatch Fish

**Abstract Text:** One quarter of the world's total commercial catch is
discarded because it is not the right species or size. It is generally
assumed that these discarded fish do not survive after capture and
release. However, recent experiments conducted in various locations on
the British Columbia coast indicate that it is possible to revive
commercially captured non-target salmon and significantly improve their
chances of long-term survival after release. In 1998, in response to
conservation concerns for coho salmon on Canada's west coast, Fisheries
and Oceans Canada established a policy of Selective Fisheries, defined
as \"the ability to avoid known, non-target species and stocks or, if
encountered, to release them alive and unharmed\". Over the course of
three summers, a unique partnership of academic and government
scientists, commercial fishermen, members of the fishing industry, First
Nations, coastal communities and Fisheries and Oceans Canada
collaborated on experiments to test how to improve the chances of
survival of salmon when released after capture by the commercial fishing
fleet. Physiological parameters of muscle metabolism and post-capture
stress and measures of swimming performance were indicators of recovery
and delayed mortality following capture. Results of these experiments
and follow-up actions will be discussed. The findings bring into
question the practices of commercial fisheries globally with regard to
the treatment of bycatch and stress the importance of experimenting with
methods that could increase the chances for long-term survival of
non-target, non-retention fish following release after capture.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 2:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-02

**Authors**:

Gauvin, J.R.\* Independent Consultant

Paine, B. United Catcher Boat Association

**Full Title:** When Bycatch Reduction Devices Become Preferred Fishing
Gear: Industry Perspective on Incentives that Affect Development,
Adoption, and Use of Selective Gear

**Abstract Text:** Groundfish fisheries in federal waters off Alaska are
governed by a complex array of bycatch caps that trigger
fishery-specific or area-specific closures. Prohibited species bycatch
caps are currently in place for two species of Pacific salmon, Pacific
halibut, Pacific herring, and three species of king and tanner crabs.
Some fisheries such as walleye pollock *Theragra chalcogramma* are
managed under fishing cooperatives that confer individual catch and
bycatch assignments through private legal agreements among participants.
Other multi-species fisheries, such as flatfish and Pacific cod *Gadus
macrocephalus*, are still managed under a \"race for fish\" basis with
no individual catch or bycatch assignments. This presentation will
review current and past industry initiatives and programs for bycatch
management and reduction in the context of the management and economic
incentives affecting these fisheries. Specific emphasis will be on past
and current development of bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) and the
relative prospects for success in application of BRDs given the
different management and economic structures affecting these fisheries.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 2:20:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-03

**Author**:

Sathre, C.\* Office of General Counsel, 1315 East-West Highway, 15th
Floor, Silver Spring, MD 20910

**Full Title:** Legal Perspective on Bycatch

**Abstract Text:** This presentation will provide a legal perspective on
bycatch.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 2:40:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-04

**Author**:

Rayburn, R.\* Texas Sea Grant College Program, 2700 Earl Rudder Freeway,
South #1800, College Station, TX 77845

**Full Title:** Stakeholder Perspective on Bycatch

**Abstract Text:** Bycatch is the multi-headed dragon of fishery
management. Priority determination for action is often dependent on
which head is most likely to inflict harm most quickly. Within the U.S.
Secretary of Commerce\'s Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee (MAFAC),
the bycatch issue has become the central theme of one of MAFAC\'s four
standing committees. As it seeks to establish a strategic planning role,
stakeholders on the MAFAC intend to work closely with the NOAA Fisheries
leadership to establish perspectives and parameters for framing the
bycatch issue, followed by consensus for its strategic consideration and
analysis. This presentation will outline the MAFAC\'s initial plans for
addressing the bycatch issue.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 3:40:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-06

**Author**:

Simonds, K.M.\* Western Pacific Fishery Management Council, 1164 Bishop
St., Honolulu, HI 96813

**Full Title:** The International Fishers Forum

**Abstract Text:** The first and second International Fishers Forum
meetings were convened to provide fishermen a medium for the discussion
and exchange of ideas for mitigating the interactions of non-target
protected species with pelagic and demersal longlines. The first forum,
IFF1, focused on seabird-longline interactions, while the second, IFF2,
also included a focus on longline-sea turtle interactions. The inclusion
of turtles in IFF2 was a response to major declines in Pacific sea
turtle populations, although the reasons for these declines include a
combination of anthropogenic effects and are not simply a result of
longline fisheries. At both IFF1 and IFF2, individual participants made
commitments to conduct various national mitigation initiatives in their
longline fisheries. Further, IFF2 requested the Western Pacific Fishery
Management Council to present the findings of IFF2 at the next Session
of the Committee of Fisheries of the Food and Agriculture Organization
(FAO), as well as to encourage the FAO to begin the process of
developing an International Plan of Action (IPOA) for the Reduction of
Sea Turtle Bycatch from Marine Fisheries throughout the world\'s oceans.
However, the lack of progress by many countries on implementing the
provisions of existing IPOAs for sharks and seabirds has suggested that
other approaches may be required to promote turtle conservation in the
Pacific. This possibility was anticipated by IFF2, which requested that
the United Nations Convention on Migratory Species consider how to
improve existing and planned international instruments for the purpose
of conserving marine turtles and seabirds on a global scale.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 4:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-07

**Authors**:

Leaman, B.M.\* International Pacific Halibut Commission, P.O. Box 95009,
Seattle, WA 98145-2009

Williams, G.H. International Pacific Halibut Commission, P.O. Box 95009,
Seattle, WA 98145-2009

**Full Title:** Collaborative Efforts by Canada and the United States in
Pacific Halibut Bycatch Control

**Abstract Text:** Excessive and unaccounted mortality of Pacific
halibut in non-directed fisheries dates back to the late 1950s,
particularly in fisheries conducted by distant-water trawl fleets.
Effective management and attainment of optimal yield in the North
American halibut setline fishery was frustrated by non-directed fishing
mortality, which reached at least 9,000 mt by the early 1960s. Beginning
in the mid-1960s, the United States and Canada worked within
multilateral organizations and bilateral agreements to reduce this
mortality. The mostsignificant reduction occurred after the extension of
fisheries jurisdictions by both countries in 1977. However, bycatch
mortality increased again as domestic harvesting capacity supplanted the
foreign fisheries but was not constrained by the same bycatch limits.
Directed action by Canada within the International Pacific Halibut
Commission in 1991 resulted in a joint program for staged reduction of
halibut mortality in these domestic fisheries by the two countries.
Since 1991, major reductions in mortality have occurred in Canada, but
more modest reductions have occurred in the United States. We review the
basis for success in bycatch reduction in both the international and
domestic arenas. In the former, access to harvest was tied to bycatch
control. In the latter, the achievement of significant reductions has
depended on the provision of appropriate regulatory and management
toolsto the fishing industry and commitment by the governments. In some
instances, the fishing industry now is paying to conduct research on
bycatch control because governments have been unable to provide an
appropriate regulatory environment.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 4:20:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-08

**Authors**:

Scott, G.P.\* NOAA Fisheries, Southeast Fisheries Science Center, 75
Virginia Beach Drive, Miami, FL 33149

**Full Title:** Bycatch Issues Addressed through ICCAT

**Abstract Text:** The International Commission for the Conservation of
Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) is the regional fisheries organization that
undertakes the study and management of tunas and tuna-like fishes in the
Atlantic. Studies include researchon biometry, ecology, and fisheries
oceanography, with a principal focus on the effects of fishing on stock
abundance. Largely in response to concerns related to the potential for
and impacts of CITES listings of various marine fish species, ICCAT
established a Sub-Committee on Bycatch in 1996 to provide scientific
advice on issues relating to bycatch resulting from fishingeffort
directed at Atlantic tuna and tuna-like species. The Sub-Committee
guides research and analytical activities on bycatch (especially of
sharks) by member nations and cooperating parties, recommends
methodological adaptations to national statistical data collection
systems in order to better quantify bycatch, and coordinates data
gathering and cooperation with other fisheryorganizations on bycatch
issues. Recent activities of the Sub-Committee have largely been
directed toward conducting stock assessments of pelagic sharks.
(*Prionace glauca, Isurus oxyrinchus*, and *Lamna nasus* are the three
species for which stockassessments are anticipated in 2004.) Issues
related to the unintended catch of non-fish species have recently come
to the forefront and are being discussed by ICCAT.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 4:40:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-09

**Authors**:

Sancho, G.\* College of Charleston, Department of Biology, 205 Fort
Jonson Road, Charleston SC 29412, USA, sanchog@cofc.edu

Puente, E. AZTI Fisheries and Food Technological Institute, Fisheries
Resources Department, Spain

Arregi, L. AZTI Fisheries and Food Technological Institute, Fisheries
Resources Department, Spain

Gomez, E. AZTI Fisheries and Food Technological Institute, Fisheries
Resources Department, Spain

Bilbao, A. AZTI Fisheries and Food Technological Institute, Fisheries
Resources Department, Spain

**Full Title:** Catch Rates by Ghost Fishing Tangle Nets of Target and
Non-Target Species: An Experimental Approach

**Abstract Text:** The loss of commercial fishing gear on the ocean
bottom can potentially have detrimental consequences to marine
communities if the gear preserves its catching abilities (a phenomenon
called \"ghost fishing\") for significant periods of time. This study
characterized the loss of monkfish tangle nets off the Spanish coast in
the Cantabrian Sea and estimated the consequences on monkfish and
non-target species. In order to simulate lost nets, groups of tangle
nets was deployed along the continental shelf at depths between 117 and
135 m and on soft bottoms, simulating commercial fishing conditions.
Nets were recovered at different intervals (1--12months), and their
catches were recorded in two trials, measuring seasonal changes in catch
rates. A fleet of tangle nets was operated following commercial
procedures adjacent to the abandoned nets, providing simultaneous
estimates of commercial catch rates. Catch rates of monkfish in
experimental nets were similar to those in commercial gear up to 4
months from their deployment, after which they declined to zero, a
markedly different result if compared to catches by lost gill and
trammel nets in shallow waters. Combining experimental catch rates with
approximations of the number of tangle nets lost by the fishing fleet,
it was estimated that the annual catches by abandoned nets represent
approximately 1.2% of the annual commercial monkfish landings in the
Cantabrian Sea. Catch composition in the 'abandoned' tangle nets evolved
from being initially dominated by fish (mostly monkfish) to being
dominated largely by crustaceans (lobsters and crabs), due to increasing
catch rates for these scavenger invertebrates with time. Crustacean
catch rates remained high during 12 months, suggesting a potential
impact of lost nets on these non-target species.

**Date:** August 11, 2003 **Time:** 5:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-10

**Authors**:

Desfosse, J.C.\* NOAA Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, 13th Floor,
Silver Spring, MD 20910, Joseph.Desfosse@noaa.gov

Brewster-Geisz, K. NOAA Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, 13th Floor,
Silver Spring, MD 20910

Marshall, K. NOAA Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, 13th Floor, Silver
Spring, MD 20910

**Full Title:** Preliminary Review of the Effects of Time/Area Closures
in the U.S. Atlantic Pelagic Longline Fishery

**Abstract Text:** Bycatch of billfish, undersized swordfish, and other
species has been a concern in pelagic longline fisheries for many years.
Bycatch precludes more productive uses of fishery resources, can slow
rebuilding of overfished stocks, and can impose costs on commercial
fishing operations. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA
Fisheries) initiated efforts to address bycatch in the pelagic longline
fishery through the development of the Highly Migratory Species Fishery
Management Plan (HMS FMP) and Billfish FMP Amendment. In these documents
NOAA Fisheries indicated that time and area closures could be a useful
tool to reduce bycatch and bycatch mortality. Three time/area closures
including areas in the Gulf of Mexico and off the coasts of South
Carolina, Georgia, and Florida were implemented under Regulatory
Amendment 1 to the HMS FMP between late 2000 and early 2001. Preliminary
analyses of pelagic logbook data indicate that overall effort, as
measured by the number of hooks set, decreased by almost 5% in 2001.
Additionally, large decreases in the numbers of fish discarded and kept
were reported in the pelagic longline fishery for 2001.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 8:40:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-11

**Authors**:

Watson, J.W.\* NOAA Fisheries, P.O. Drawer 1207, Pascagoula, MS 39567

Foster, D.G. NOAA Fisheries

Epperly, S. NOAA Fisheries

Shah, A.K. Merck Research Laboratories

**Full Title:** Experiments in the Western Atlantic Northeast Distant
Waters to Evaluate Sea Turtle Mitigation Measures in the Pelagic
Longline Fishery

**Abstract Text:** NOAA Fisheries in cooperation with the U.S. pelagic
longline fishery implemented a three-year research program in the
Western Atlantic Ocean to develop and evaluate sea turtle mitigation
measures. Five potential mitigation techniques were evaluated during 687
research sets in 2001 and 2002. Data were collected to evaluate the
effectiveness of the mitigation measures and to investigate variables
that affect sea turtle interaction rates with pelagic longline gear. A
significant reduction in loggerhead catch may be achieved by reducing
daylight soak time. 18/0 circle hooks and mackerel bait were found to
significantly reduce both loggerhead and leatherback sea turtle
interactions when compared with industry standard J hooks and squid
bait. Also, circle hooks significantly reduced the rate of hook
ingestion by the loggerheads, reducing the post-hooking mortality
associated with the interactions. The combination of 18/0 circle hooks
and mackerel bait was found to be the most efficient mitigation measure
for both loggerhead and leatherback turtles. Mackerel bait was found to
be more efficient for swordfish than squid bait , and circle hooks were
more efficient for tuna than J hooks.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 9:00:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-12

**Authors**:

Serafy, J.\* NMFS/Southeast Fisheries Science Center, 75 Virginia Beach
Drive, Miami, Florida 33149

Diaz, G. NMFS/Southeast Fisheries Science Center, 75 Virginia Beach
Drive, Miami, Florida 33149

Prince, E.D. NMFS/Southeast Fisheries Science Center, 75 Virginia Beach
Drive, Miami, Florida 33149

**Full Title:** The Atlantic Billfish Bycatch of the Pelagic Longline
Fishery

**Abstract Text:** A multi-national longline fishing fleet operates
throughout the Atlantic Ocean to supply the growing global demand for
tunas and swordfish. Because a single longline set typically involves
the deployment of hundreds, if not thousands, of baited hooks, the
capture of non-target species is unavoidable. Included among longline
bycatches are the Atlantic istiophorids: sailfish, white marlin, blue
marlin and longbill spearfish. With an emphasis on these species, we
used severalfishery-dependent databases to calculate target:bycatch
species ratios (T:B ratios) and examined patterns in these ratios over
space and time. In this presentation, we examine the apparent degree of
\"habitat overlap\" between target and bycatch species, test the
hypothesis that T:B ratios have been determined primarily by changes in
fishing practices, and offer recommendations for further bycatch
reduction research.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 9:20:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-13

**Authors**:

O\'Brien, C.M. CEFAS, Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft,
Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK

Pilling, G.M. CEFAS, Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft,
Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK

Brown, C.A.\* National Marine Fisheries Service/SoutheastFisheries
Science Center, 75 Virginia Beach Dr., Miami, FL 33149, USA,
craig.brown@noaa.gov

**Full Title:** Bycatch Estimation System for the U.S. Atlantic Longline
Fishery

**Abstract Text:** The estimation of bycatch (animals that were
discarded or released at sea) from the U.S. Atlantic pelagic longline
fishery has historically been based on tallies reported by fishermen in
logbooks. The initiation of an observer program in 1992 allowed
estimates to be based on direct observation of discard rates and
condition (live or dead), incorporating the reported effort from the
logbooks. However, sparse sampling in a number of spatial (e.g.,
geographical) and temporal (e.g., quarterly) strata as well as
incompleteness in the logbook data meant pooling was required across
strata to achieve a minimum number of observations per stratum. An
alternative approach to estimating longline bycatch is presented that
will improve both the estimates and the calculation of uncertainty about
estimates. Models are developed using observer data. A number of
important model covariates are identified, such as quarter, year,
grouped fishing area, and set target species. The statistical concept of
conditionality is applied, and a flexible mixture distribution -- the
negative binomial -- is used for modeling discard data. The results of
applying these models to observer and logbook data to estimate discards
are presented and are compared to estimates using previous methods

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 9:40:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-14

**Authors**:

Lawseth, D.\* Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 3225 Stephenson Point Road,
Nanaimo, BC, V9T 1K3

Hargreaves, B. 3190 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC V9T 6N7

**Full Title:** Development and Implementation of Selective Fishing
Methods and Policy for Management of Salmon in British Columbia, Canada

**Abstract Text:** Many coho salmon (*Oncorhynchus kisutch*) stocks in
British Columbia declined dramatically during the mid-1980s and 1990s.
Growing concerns about this decline prompted an intensive review, and
public consultation began in 1997. This resulted in new conservation
objectives and management actions for coho salmon, including a goal of
near-zero mortality for two critical populations and requirements for
fishing gear and methods to become more selective. Selective fishing was
defined as the ability to avoid, or release alive and unharmed,
non-target stocks or species of concern. In 1998 a new coho recovery
plan with Can\$400 million of funding was initiated, including
development of selective fishing methods, voluntary retirement of
commercial salmon licences, and diversification of commercial fisheries.
In 2001 \"A Policy For Selective Fishing in Canada's Pacific Fisheries\"
was released which further defined the principles for selective fishing
in Canada's Pacific fisheries. The ability of harvesters to fish
selectively is now a fundamental requirement for Canadian fishers to
meet the conservation objectives of the federal Fisheries Act, the
anticipated requirements of the new national Species at Risk Act (SARA)
legislation, and Canada's international commitments to preserve
biological diversity and responsibly conserve and harvest fish
resources. Since 1998 more than 150 selective fisheries experiments have
been conducted in B.C. by the First Nations, recreational and commercial
salmon fishing sectors. The main purpose of these experiments was to
develop new fishing gears and methods to reduce coho catches, and
mortality rates of any coho that are captured incidentally. This
presentation will summarize our progress, highlighting the major
successes but also some of the continuing challenges

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 10:40:00 AM **Room:** 204B
**Abstract number**: SO-18-16

**Author**:

Fraser, J.\* Fraser Research and Development. Vancouver, BC, Canada

**Full Title:** Reducing Gill-Net Mortalities of Incidentally Caught
Species. An Industry Perspective

**Abstract Text:** The abundance of coho salmon (*Oncorhynchus kitsuch*)
has declined over much of their southern range on the Pacific Coast of
North America. As a result, Fisheries and Oceans Canada implemented
conservation strategies for coho salmon in 1998. Avoidance is an
effective and commonly used method to reduce bycatch mortalities.
However, an avoidance only strategy would severely reduce the
opportunity for commercial salmon fishing. Therefore, if gill-netters
are to continue to be used in fisheries that inadvertently intercept
stocks of concern, then a reduction in the mortality rate of released
bycatch is necessary. In 1998, management applied mortality estimates of
60-70% for coho released by commercial salmon gillnet fisheries in
British Columbia. In a series of studies involving industry and
scientists, we demonstrated that short term (48 hr) mortality rates can
be reduced to as little as 6% by using short net soak times, modified
nets, careful handling of fish on removal from the net, and a newly
designed recovery box. This package of selective fishing tools and
techniques combined with training and education programs for fishers
expand the possible role of gillnets in selective fisheries. Our
progress will be discussed from an industry perspective with a brief
look at the tools in the gillnet sector selective fishing toolbox. There
will also be a short discussion of the problems in successfully
implementing this reform.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 11:00:00 AM **Room:** 204B
**Abstract number**: SO-18-17

**Authors**:

Ashbrook, C.E.\* Washington Dept of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capitol Way
N., Olympia, WA, 98501

Vander Haegen, G.E. Northwest Marine Technology, 955 Malin Lane SW,
Tumwater, WA, 98501

Yi, K.W. Washington Dept of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capitol Way N.,
Olympia, WA, 98501

Dixon, J.D Washington Dept of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capitol Way N.,
Olympia, WA, 98501

**Full Title:** Evaluating Selective Fishing: Survival of Spring Chinook
Salmon Captured and Released from Commercial Nets on the Columbia River

**Abstract Text:** The concept of live capture and selective harvest of
adipose-clipped adult spring chinook salmon (*Oncorhynchus
tschawytscha*) was tested on the Columbia River. In addition,
conventional nets (5.5\" and 8\" mesh) were compared to the tangle net
(3.5\" to 4.5\" mesh). Experienced gill netters used modified fishing
techniques and careful fish handling to compare catch efficiency,
immediate and long-term survival, and bycatch between the various sized
nets. Live fish were tagged and released for recovery in sport
fisheries, commercial fisheries, at hatchery racks and traps, and during
spawning ground surveys. Control fish were tagged and released from an
adult trap in Bonneville Dam, just upstream of the fishing area. Catch
efficiencies among the various net sizes were similar. The tangle nets
had higher bycatch than the conventional nets. Although immediate
survival between the net types was similar, the post-release survival of
fish captured in the tangle nets was higher than conventional net
captured fish. We conclude that using conventional gear with short soaks
and careful fish handling is not enough to ensure the survival of
released spring chinook salmon, but switching to a tangle net, coupled
with short soaks and appropriate fish handling, would improve the
post-release survival of spring chinook salmon.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 11:20:00 AM **Room:** 204B
**Abstract number**: SO-18-18

**Author**:

Whisler, G.S.\* Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, 2021 Marine
Drive, suite 103, Astoria, OR 97103

**Full Title:** Progressive Implementation of Columbia River
Stock-Selective Commercial Fisheries

**Abstract Text:** To address conservation and restoration goals, 12
depressed wild salmonid stocks in the Columbia River Basin have been
listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. This significantly
reduced commercial gillnet fishing opportunities in the Columbia River
and limited the harvest potential of co-mingled hatchery-origin
salmonids. Traditional selective management tools relying on avoidance
techniques are no longer sufficient to provide economically beneficial
commercial fisheries when at-risk and harvestable stocks are not
spatially or temporally separated. Basin hatcheries have begun
mass-marking spring chinook salmon with an adipose fin clip, providing a
visual indicator of hatchery origin. This provides resource managers
with the opportunity to develop selective fisheries targeting
hatchery-produced salmonids.Based on the precedent set by selective
fishery studies in British Columbia, the state of Oregon initiated
research in 1999 and 2000 on the application of stock-selective harvest
techniques, specifically live-capture, into Columbia River commercial
salmon fisheries. This work prompted the states of Oregon and Washington
to begin cooperative studies guiding gear refinement and implementation
of these techniques in 2001. The viability of gear is gauged by fishery
economics, capture method, and survival of released by-catch. Refinement
of live-capture gears and methods is based on data collected during
onboard monitoring of demonstration fisheries, test fishing, and
survival studies. Specific steps towards implementation have been
identified and methods of measuring progress have been developed.
Assessment of the continuing transition of Columbia River spring chinook
gillnet fisheries to live-capture methodologies has provided valuable
information regarding implementation and evaluation of selective harvest
practices.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 11:40:00 AM **Room:** 204B
**Abstract number**: SO-18-19

**Author**:

Brajcich, J.G.\* 6295 Aubrey St, Burnaby, BC, V5B 2C9

**Full Title:** Selectivity Grids in Seine Bunts

**Abstract Text:** Grids are a response to the Minister of Fisheries
Challenge given to the salmon industry in 1998, \"that salmon fisheries
of the futurehad to be risk adverse conservation based.\" Of immediate
concern were the cohoes destined for the Thompson and Skeena rivers. The
objective of the grids is to allow the safe, in water escapement of
non-target species of salmon while retaining target and marketable fish
using grids durable enough to address drum, spooling-pin andpower block
demands while minimizing damage to the fish (scaling and gilling). Grids
of various shapes, designs, colours, materials,clarity andlocation were
placed into the bunt of a seine net. Two grids of a kind were installed
in the front panel of the bunt while two different grids were installed
in the middle panel. A catcher bag, attached to the outside of the bunt
with separate chambers for the different grids, contained all of the
fish that escaped through the grating to determine size, species, DNA
andany preference by the fish for the various shapes of openings, grid
design or texture. Due to the salmon\'s migratory timing and patterns,
research time is very limited. Over the last four seasons, experiments
with the grids have proven very successful. All salmon will access the
grids, with some preference indicated by species to grid shapes and
colour. A highpercentage of non-target cohoes (\~70%) passed through the
gridding while retaining(\~ 85%) of target sockeye. Progress in all
areas to bediscussed.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 12:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B
**Abstract number**: SO-18-20

**Author**:

Tufts, B.L.\* Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston,
Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6

**Full Title:** Maximizing Recovery and Survival in \"Live-Release\"
Recreational Fisheries

**Abstract Text:** For the past several years, we have been using a
physiological approach to investigate the factors that influence the
physiological response of fish to angling under different conditions.
The main goal of these studies has been to determine the best ways to
maximize the conservation strategy of \"live-release\" in recreational
fisheries. These studies have shown that most fish will fully recover
from angling, if environmental conditions and handling practices are
appropriate. We have also found, however, that there are many endogenous
and exogenous factors that influence the physiological response to
angling in fish. Factors such as water temperature, nutritional status,
air exposure and body size can all influence the magnitude of the
physiological disturbance following angling and the time required for
recovery. Under extreme environmental conditions (eg. high water
temperatures), or when several of these factors act in combination,
there may also be a reduction in the survival of fish that are released
after angling. These studies can therefore be used to identify
conditions, or angling practices, that may be inappropriate for
live-release regulations. Recently, we have also become involved in
studies to minimize fish stress and maximize survival following
\"live-release\" angling tournaments. In recent years, these events have
become an important use of fisheries resources, but their potential
impact on fish populations is somewhat controversial. Our progress in
this area will also be discussed.

**Panel discussion \"Selective harvest of salmonids - where are we
going?\" with the six previous speakers to be moderated by Geraldine
Vander Haegen**

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 1:40:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-21

**Authors**:

Haflinger, K.E.\* P.O. Box 74, Vashon, WA 98070

**Full Title:** Reducing Bycatch through Avoidance: Utilizing
Near-Real-Time Catch Sampling and Analysis of Spatial Patterns in
Bycatch Occurrence to Help Fleets Avoid Bycatch

**Abstract Text:** Trawl fleets operating off the coasts of Washington,
Oregon, and Alaska have been forced to deal with increasingly stringent
quotas for the bycatch of salmon, crab, halibut, and rockfish. These
same fleets are required in many instances to carry either one or two
federal observers who sample catch and file information daily with the
National Marine Fisheries Service in Seattle. Observer information is
made available to vessel owners who contract with Sea State Inc. to
provide daily analysis of spatial trends in catch data. Information in
the form of maps, tables, and commentary are relayed back to captains on
a daily basis, allowing for rapid reaction to areas of high bycatch. The
recent development of cooperatives for harvesting pollock and whiting
has led to a novel program of area closures. Contractual arrangements
among cooperatives limit access to areas of high bycatch to fleets
demonstrating low bycatch rates. These \"hotspot\" closures can change
weekly and require significant effort on the part of fishermen to both
supply and keep abreast of current bycatch information. Although
complex, these programs can lead to appreciable bycatch reduction and
increased fishing opportunities for fleets that might be otherwise
restricted.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 2:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-22

**Authors**:

DeAlteris, J.\* University of Rhode Island, Department of Fisheries and
Aquaculture, Kingston, RI 02881

H. Milliken, National Marine Fisheries Service, Northeast Fisheries
Science Center, Woods Hole, MA 02543

**Full Title:** Bycatch Reduction Technologies: From Concept to
Regulation

**Abstract Text:** In the last two decades, there has been substantial
development and implementation of bycatch reduction technologies (BRTs)
designed to achieve species selection and minimize discards in
commercial fisheries. An analysis of recent BRT case studies reveals the
following essential elements of a sound BRT design, test and evaluation
program, and implementation procedure. First, there must be general
agreement between the participants in the fishery, other stakeholders,
and regulators that there is a bycatch problem, and that a reduction in
bycatch is required. Second, the BRT design team must include scientists
and fishermen. Third, there must be a standard protocol for the
evaluating the effectiveness of any potential BRT. This protocol must
specify the acceptable level of reduction in the catch of the target
species (if any), the required reduction in bycatch, and the
experimental design and statistical methods used to test and evaluate
the performance of the BRT. Fourth, the BRT must be both functional and
consistently effective under commercial fishing operations. Finally,
resource managers must require the BRT in fisheries regulations, and
there must be adequate at-sea monitoring and enforcement to ensure that
the bycatch reduction goal is achieved.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 2:20:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-23

**Authors**:

McElderry, H.\* Archipelago Marine Research Ltd., 525 Head
Street,Victoria, British Columbia, V9A 5S1, Canada

Schrader, J. Archipelago Marine Research Ltd., 525 Head Street,Victoria,
British Columbia, V9A 5S1, Canada

Illingworth, J. Archipelago Marine Research Ltd., 525 Head
Street,Victoria, British Columbia, V9A 5S1, Canada

**Full Title:** The Efficacy of Electronic Monitoring in British
Columbia\'s Halibut Longline Fishery

**Abstract Text:** Large-scale deployment of electronic monitoring (EM)
systems occurred in the 2002 British Columbia halibut longline fishery
to evaluate the technology as an alternative to observer-based at-sea
monitoring. Catch items identified by EM represented over 60 fish,
invertebrate, and seabird species or species groupings. Data from
fishing trips where EM and observers were deployed (55% of the 59 EM
trips) were compared by total overall catch, total catch by set, and
catch by individual hook. EM and observer identifications overall agreed
within 2% and, when matched by individual hook, agreed in over 90% of
the catch records. Individual species identification rates were high for
most of the 15 most abundant species (98% of the catch). Non-distinct
species were not identified well by EM, and sample sizes were too small
among half the species for estimation of an EM identification rate.
Close agreement between EM and observer monitoring was also evident with
species utilization determination (i.e., kept or discarded) and time,
location, and depth at set start and finish. Compared with at-sea
observers, EM provided excellent catch accounting overall and for common
distinctive species but did not provide the same level of species
resolution, particularly with the less-common, non-distinctive species.
Considering the necessity for higher fleet coverage levels, the
unsuitability of many vessels to host observers, and the substantially
lower cost of EM, a combined EM/observer-basedmonitoring approach should
be used for the halibut longline fishery.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 3:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-25

**Authors**:

Fogarty, M.J. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National
Marine Fisheries Service, Woods Hole, MA 02543

Gabriel, W.L.\* National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
National Marine Fisheries Service, Woods Hole, MA 02543

**Full Title:** Relative Precision of Discard Rate Estimates for the
Northeast Groundfish Complex

**Abstract Text:** We examined the relative precision (defined here as
the ratio of the standard error of estimated discard to the estimated
discard) for 17 New England groundfish stocks using observer coverage
and landings data for the year 2000. For each stock, a stratified ratio
estimate of discard and its variance was made with gear type and season
(quarter year) as stratification variables. We determined the projected
increase in precision with increased sampling effort (number of fishing
trips observed) under two scenarios: a doubling of sampling intensity
relative to 2000 levels and an increase in sampling effort equivalent to
a court-ordered 5% trip coverage level in 2002. Our focus throughout was
on the effects of changes in sampling effort (number of trips) rather
than in proportional coverage *per se*. The estimates of relative
precision obtained under the full stratification scheme and sampling
effort levels in 2000 differ substantially by stock, ranging from
relatively precise estimates for stocks such as Gulf of Maine cod,
Georges Bank haddock, witch flounder, and American plaice (relative
precision \< 0.2) to highly variable estimates for Southern New England
winter flounder and windowpane flounder with relative precision \>1.0.
Increases in sampling effort to double the 2000 levels resulted in a
substantial increase in precision with 77% of the stocks exhibiting
relative precision levels less than 40%. For the 5% coverage level, the
modal level of precision was \< 0.2. We also explored the implications
of using a reduced or collapsed stratification scheme in which observer
data are pooled over the year and only gear type is considered. The
general conclusions concerning levels of precision attained under the
full stratification scheme appeared to be generally robust.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 3:40:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-26

**Authors**:

Burns, K.M.\* Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway,
Sarasota, FL 34236

**Full Title:** Bycatch Data in Recreational Fisheries

**Abstract Text:** In the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic, the
grouper/snapper complex supports important recreational and commercial
reef fish fisheries. Studies supported by the NOAA/NMFS Marine Fisheries
Initiative and Florida Sea Grant, targeting red grouper Epinephelus
morio, gag *Mycteroperca microlepis*, red snapper *Lutjanus
campechanus*, and vermilion snapper *Rhomboplites aurorubens*
swimbladder physiology and the quantification and survival of undersized
bycatch for these species, were begun in 1998. Data and research
specimens were collected from the hook-and-line recreational and
recreational for-hire sectors. Effects of depth-induced trauma on target
species\' swimbladder physiology and survival were studied in the
laboratory through simulations of barotrauma using fish hyperbaric
chambers. Simultaneous shipboard studies to quantify the bycatch were
conducted by counting all the target species caught per fishing trip
mainly off both coasts of Florida. Undersized target species captured at
various depth increments (0-12.2 m, 12.5-21.3 m, 21.6-30.5 m, 30.8-61.0
m, and 61.3+ m) were tagged (some fish vented and others not) and
released by fisheries staff and volunteer taggers (fishers) aboard
recreational vessels, charter boats, and headboats. Moribund target fish
were brought to the lab for necropsy to determine the cause of acute
mortality and for comparison with fish from the hyperbaric chamber
studies. Survival of fish caught on J versus circle hooks is also being
compared through tag returns. Data on fish movement show that reef fish
of all sizes move (some moving over 160 km) from the original tagging
site.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 4:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-27

**Authors**:

Osborn, M.F.\* Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics Program, 1444 Eye
Street, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20005

Compton, A.L. Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics Program, 1444 Eye
Street, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20005

**Full Title:** Improving Bycatch Data on the Atlantic Coast through the
ACCSP

**Abstract Text:** The Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics Program
(ACCSP) is a cooperative state-federal program to design, implement, and
conduct marine fisheries statistics data collection programs and
integrate those data into a single data management system that will meet
the needs of fishery managers, scientists, and fishermen. The ACCSP was
established in 1995 through a Memorandum of Understanding with the 15
Atlantic coast states (including the District of Columbia), the Potomac
River Fisheries Commission, three regional fisheries management
councils, NOAA Fisheries, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. The ACCSP established
minimum standards for data collection and management for catch and
effort, socio-economic, biological, and bycatch statistics through a
series of planning meetings. Standards are developed with input from
experts from all of the program partners and are developed by consensus.
Program partners are responsible forimplementing these standards into
their data collection activities, while ACCSP program staff maintain a
centralized data management system with harmonized data from all
partners and provide a powerful end-user analytical tool called Business
Objects. Operational funding to implement the program began in 1999, and
the current annual budget is \$3.5 million. Funding is allocated to
partners through an annual competitive process. This presentation
discusses specific bycatch standards and their development, partner
efforts to implement the standards, how ACCSP funding is being used to
improve the collection and use of bycatch data, and what is needed for
full implementation of the bycatch program on the Atlantic coast.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 4:20:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-28

**Authors**:

Lucy, J.A.\* Sea Grant MAP, Virginia Institute of Marine Science,
College of William and Mary, Gloucester Pt., VA 23062

**Full Title:** Catch and Release in Marine Recreational Fisheries - Key
Issues and Research Progress

**Abstract Text:** The need to better manage all fishing activity,
whether commercial or recreational, has made catch and release a major
component of marine fisheries management. Surveys indicate that in
top-ranked U.S. recreational fisheries, typically better than 50% but
sometimes as high as 90% of yearly catches are discarded/released alive.
This situation, along with marine angling community interest in fishing
conservation ethics, helps drive demands for angling regulations backed
by strong research results. Selected research projects are highlighted
in this presentation, including their application to needs prioritized
at the 1999 Symposium on Catch and Release in Marine Recreational
Fisheries. For example, additional work is needed on short-term survival
of released marine fish, but there exists a greater need for data on
long-term, post-release survival. Pop-up satellite tag technology is
helping determine short- and long-term survival and behavior patterns
of! billfish released in fishing tournaments compared to live billfish
released as bycatch in longline fisheries. Short- and long-term release
mortality issues (hook design, temperature, fish size, live-fish weigh
stations for fishing tournaments, etc.) are under study for specific
inshore fisheries, e.g., striped bass, red drum, and spotted seatrout.
Only limited work is available on outcomes of hooks left in released
fish. Australia is studying attitudes and practices of anglers regarding
catch and release. From this and ongoing fisheries research, an
educational campaign is being developed to increase public awareness
regarding improving survival of released, line-caught fish. The project
warrants consideration as a possible model for other countries to
explore.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 4:40:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-29

**Authors**:

Meredith, E.K.\* National Marine Fisheries Service, One Blackburn Drive,
Gloucester, MA 01930

Beal, K.L. National Marine Fisheries Service, One Blackburn Drive,
Gloucester, MA 01930

**Full Title:** Managing the Nation\'s Bycatch and Collaborative
Research

**Abstract Text:** For a number of years, collaborative fisheries
research among commercial marine fisheries participants, scientists, and
managers has attempted to address the difficult problem of reducing the
capture of nontarget species or\"bycatch\" in commercial fisheries.
Recent U.S. Congressional funding has invigorated thiseffort. The
creation of the Cooperative Research Partners Initiative (CRPI) in the
NortheastRegion of the National Marine Fisheries Service has provided
funding and a venue for peer review of bycatch research projects. The
CRPI beganin 1999 to enhance the data for fishery management decisions
and improve communications amongthe commercial groundfish industry,
fishery scientists, and managers. Currently there are 14research
projects funded under CRPI that study bycatch or fishing gear
selectivity. Total funding exceeds \$2 million. This presentation will
discuss these projects with specific attention given to the need to
develop mechanisms to incorporate collaborative research resultsinto
fishery management.

**Date:** August 12, 2003 **Time:** 5:00:00 PM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-30

**Authors**:

Glass, C.W.\* Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, 81 Stagepoint
Road, Manomet MA 02345

Sarno, B. Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, 81 Stagepoint Road,
Manomet MA 02345

Morris, G. Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, 81 Stagepoint Road,
Manomet MA 02345

Feehan, T. Manomet Center for Conservation Sciences, 81 Stagepoint Road,
Manomet MA 02345

**Full Title:** Reduction of Bycatch/Discards in Gulf of Maine
Groundfish Fisheries: Composite Mesh Codend and Escape Window Effects on
Retaining Non-Target Fish

**Abstract Text:** The at-sea discarding of fish harvested from the
ocean and associated discarding mortalities have been recognized and
noted by fisheries scientists as inherent problems in the management of
world fisheries for a great many years. Such practices constitute not
only waste of a valuable resource, but perhaps more importantly these
practices help contribute to observed decline in many of the world\'s
marine fisheries. This has led many to speculate that continuing bycatch
and discard practices will lead to collapse of commercial fisheries and
associated community infrastructure. Bycatch reduction studies are not
new. However, there has been an explosion in development of such
programs and techniques in recent years. While these studies have
resulted in a small number of bycatch reduction devices being adopted
into commercial fishing operations, in general success has been limited.
This presentation will outline results from collaborative research
studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of novel codend
configurations and escape windows in reducing bycatch and discard in
Gulf of Maine groundfish fisheries. The role of bycatch reduction in
conservation of fish stocks will be discussed.

**Date:** August 13, 2003 **Time:** 8:40:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-31

**Authors**:

Lee, B.J.\* F/V Ocean Reporter, 25 Pleasant Street, Rockport, MA
01966-2151

**Full Title:** Fishermen Cooperating With Scientists in Bycatch Studies

**Abstract Text:** Findings of three bycatch research studies conducted
jointly by Captain Bill Lee and marine biologist Allan Michael, Ph.D.,
will be reviewed: (1) \"Bycatch Reduction with the Use of Grates,\"
funded by the Northeast Consortium; (2)\"Baited Underwater Video
Project,\" funded by the Northeast Consortium; and (3) \"Development of
Video Techniques for Bycatch ReductionStudies,\" an ongoing project
funded by the National Marine Fisheries Service. A 15-minute video will
be shown as a backdrop to the oral presentation. The video footage was
shot in the Gulf of Maine from a working commercial fishing vessel (F/V
Ocean Reporter), as well as from other commercial fishing vessels
engaged in a variety of fishing methods. The footage, shot during the
three abovementioned studies, will demonstrate bycatch reduction with
the use of grates on mobile fishing gear in groundfish and shrimp
fisheries, and show the impact of scallop dredges on the ocean bottom.
The footage also will demonstrate how increased mesh size can contribute
to the reduction of bycatch in gill netting and how increased hook size
can reduce hooking bycatch.

**Date:** August 13, 2003 **Time:** 9:00:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-32

**Authors**:

Cusick, J.F.\* NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725
Montlake Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

Lai, H.L. NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725
Montlake Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

Clarke, M.E. NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725
Montlake Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

Methot, R. NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725
Montlake Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

Majewski, J.M. NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725
Montlake Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

Moynihan, K.M. NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725
Montlake Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

LaFargue, J.P. NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, 2725
Montlake Blvd. E., Seattle, WA 98112

**Full Title:** West Coast Groundfish Observer Program Initial Data
Report and Summary Analyses

**Abstract Text:** On May 24, 2001, NOAA Fisheries established the West
Coast Groundfish Observer Program (WCGOP) to implement the Pacific Coast
Groundfish Fishery Management Plan. Although there have been some pilot
programs on the West Coast that have observed volunteer vessels, this is
the first coast-wide mandatory observer program for the non-whiting
fleet. The goal of the WCGOP is to collect data on the discard of West
Coast groundfish to be used in assessing the total fishing mortality of
a variety of groundfish species. In the first year of the program, the
observations were focused on the trawl fleet; however, the program has
begun pilot coverage on the fixed-gear and open access fleets as well.
This program is unique because observers are residents in one of
thirteen ports. Additionally, trawl vessels are selected to be observed
for the entire two-month trip limit period. The observations from the
first year of observer information have been summarized. The discard and
bycatch rates for 23 species were estimated using the ratio estimator
technique after post-stratifying sampled tows into trip-limit period,
depth, and target strategies. These initial results are being used to
adjust the sampling scheme. In addition, these data are being
incorporated into a bycatch management model that is being used to guide
West Coast groundfish management.

**Date:** August 13, 2003 **Time:** 9:20:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-33

**Authors**:

Nance, J.M.\* National Marine Fisheries Service Galveston Laboratory,
4700 Ave. U, Galveston, TX 77551

Scott-Denton, E. National Marine Fisheries Service

Koi, D. National Marine Fisheries Service

**Full Title:** Bycatch in the Gulf of Mexico Shrimp Fishery

**Abstract Text:** Over the past 10 years, a total of 10,674 observer
days have been secured by shrimp bycatch observers in the Gulf of Mexico
and along the east coast of the United States. Analysis revealed that on
average about 27 kg of organisms per hour are taken during trawling
operations in the Gulf of Mexico. Examination of the composition of the
organisms revealed that about 67% of the catch by weight is composed of
finfish (mostly groundfish species), 16% by commercial shrimp species,
13% by non-commercial shrimp crustaceans, and 4% by non-crustacean
invertebrates.Although groundfish species make up the majority of the
bycatch taken in shrimp trawls, three species (king mackerel,
*Scomberomorus cavalla*; Spanish mackerel, *S. maculates*; and red
snapper, *Lutjanus campechanus*) have received a great deal of attention
because of their commercial and recreational importance and the
potential for significant impacts on their population abundance through
shrimp trawling activities. Average catch of these three species is
generally below 0.5 kg per hour.

**Date:** August 13, 2003 **Time:** 9:40:00 AM **Room:** 204B **Abstract
number**: SO-18-34

**Authors**:

Lent, R.\* NOAA Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, 14th Floor, Silver
Spring, MD 20910

**Full Title:** NOAA Fisheries National Bycatch Strategy

**Abstract Text:** The National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA
Fisheries) has developed a national bycatch strategy (Strategy) for
addressing finfish and protected species bycatch in our Nation\'s
fisheries. The Strategy may be found on the new NOAA Fisheries bycatch
website (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/bycatch.htm) and serves as a focal
point for all bycatch reduction activities already underway at NOAA
Fisheries. The Strategy builds upon the 1998 NOAA Fisheries bycatch
study entitled \"Managing the Nation\'s Fisheries\" by assessing
progress on the recommendations of that study and prioritizing the data
collection, research, and regulatory actions necessary to continue
addressing bycatch. Ongoing gear technology research for bycatch
avoidance and/or minimizing injury is also included in this focused
effort. In addition, the Strategy establishes a workgroup that is
evaluating Standardized Bycatch Reporting Methodology and its
application in fisheries. International activities, critical for
progress on migratory and/or transboundary species such as sea turtles
and certain finfish (sharks, billfish, tunas), are also part of the
overall Strategy. Working with our Council partners, there have been
significant accomplishments in the area of bycatch reduction, and this
national Strategy continues these efforts by assessing and prioritizing
the tasks ahead.

**Date:** August 13, 2003 **Time:** 10:40:00 AM **Room:** 204B
**Abstract number**: SO-18-36

**Authors**:

Powers, J.E.\* NMFS/Southeast Fisheries Science Center, 75 Virginia
Beach Dr., Miami, FL 33149

**Full Title:** Report of the NOAA Fisheries National Working Group on
Bycatch

**Abstract Text:** Number range CHAPTERThe National Marine Fisheries
Service recently issued a National Bycatch Strategy to address issues
related to management of bycatch within the nation's fisheries. One
component of that strategy was the establishment of a National Working
Group on Bycatch (NWGB) to develop a national approach to standardized
bycatch reporting methodologies. This work was to be the basis for
regional teams (also established in the National Bycatch Strategy) to
make more specific fishery-specific recommendations. Number range
CHAPTERThe NWGB reviewed regional issues related to fisheries and
bycatch and discussed advantages and disadvantages of various methods
for estimating bycatch, including fishery-independent surveys,
self-reporting through logbooks, port sampling, recreational sampling,
at-sea observation including observers, digital video cameras, digital
observers, alternative platforms and remote monitoring and stranding
networks. Number range CHAPTERAt-sea sampling programs for 104 fisheries
were classified as having Baseline, Pilot, Developing, Mature or no
at-sea observation program. Additionally all of these fisheries were
rated as to their vulnerability (High, Moderate or Low) to bycatch of
fishery resources, marine mammals and endangered species and birds.
Number range CHAPTERThese results should be utilized by the regional
teams established through the National Bycatch Strategy to develop,
refine, and determine implementation plans. These activities should
include review and refinement of the fishery-specific estimates given
here.

**Date:** August 13, 2003 **Time:** 11:00:00 AM **Room:** 204B

**One-hour panel discussion to be moderated by Rebecca Lent; panelists
include Mike Hirshfield (*Oceana, Washington, DC*), David Witherell
(*North Pacific Fishery Management Council, Anchorage, AK*), and John
Gauvin.**

**SPONSOR:** NOAA Fisheries; American Fisheries Society Potomac Chapter