There is a lack of information about the stock status of commercial and recreational fisheries. Because all rockfish species are lumped together, valuable data is lost that could help determine which species are in trouble. Gear performance standards and an assessment of how fishing gear impacts habitat need to be developed, and a plan to create marine habitat protections and a refuge system is needed. Develop a Mandatory West Coast Observer Program To get accurate information on bycatch, a fleetwide observer program is needed, PMCC says. Having observers on board ships is the only real way to gauge the amount of fish being thrown over the side as bycatch.
Management needs to be tilted toward protecting weak stocks.
A sustainable fishing effort needs to be identified and set, and a plan has to be established to meet that effort. Data on economic losses to coastal communities needs to be gathered to assess long term and short term economic gains. Better reporting of bycatch, and better data collection will help develop improved management strategies. In the Face of Uncertainty, Use Precautionary Management. In the face of uncertainty, all parties need to adopt the precautionary approach to management of West Coast rockfish stocks.