Canada, 1983 Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Observer Manual - Scotia-Fundy Region. Marine Fish Division. Dartmouth, N.S., Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 71 p.
Canada, 1970 Statutes of Canada, Coastal Fisheries Protection Act. R.S.C. 1970 c. C-21. Amended to Sept. 1984:5 p.
Canada, 1970 Fisheries Act R.S.C. 1970 c.F-14. Amemded to Oct. 1984: 35 p.
Canada, 1978 Atlantic Fishery Regulations (made under the Fisheries Act). C.R.C. 1978 c. 807. Amended to Jan. 1984:94 p.
Canada, 1978 Coastal Fisheries Protection Regulations (made under the Coastal Fisheries Protection Act) C.R.C. 1978 c. 413. Amended to Aug. 1985: 20 p.
Canada, 1978a Foreign Vessel Fishing Regulations (made under the Fisheries Act) C.R.C. 1978 c.815. Amended to Jan. 1984:28p.
FAO Norway Cooperative Programme, 1981 Report on an expert consultation on monitoring, control and surveillance systems for fisheries management. Rome, Italy 27–30 April 1981. Rome, FAO, FAO/GCP/INT/344/NOR:115p.
FAO, 1981 Methods of collecting and analysing size and age data for fish stock assessment. FAO Fish.Circ., (736):100p. Issued also in French and Spanish
FAO, 1981 Report of the consultation on monitoring, control and surveillance. Freetown, 30 June-3 July 1981. Dakar, CECAF Porject, CECAF/TECH/81/35:30p. Issued also in French
FAO, 1982 Legislation Branch, Regional compendium of fisheries legislation (CECAF Region), FAO, Regional Fisheries Law Advisory Programme, Eastern Central Atlantic Region/Norway-Funds-in-Trust Fl:GCP/RAF/146/NOR; FL/CECAF/82/4:337p. Issued also in French
Babin, A., and B. Wood, 1981 A guide to eastern European fishing vessels frequenting eastern Canadian waters. Observer Report, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Marine Fish Division, Dartmouth, N.S. Canada, Bedford Institute of Oceanography, 59 p.
Fischer, W., G. Bianchi and W.B. Scott (eds), 1981 FAO species identification sheets for fishery purposes. Eastern Central Atlantic:fishing areas 37,47 (in part). Funds-in-Trust. Ottawa, Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada by arrangement with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Vols. 1–7: pag.var.
French, R., R. Nelson Jr. and J. Wall, 1982 Role of the United States Observer Program in management of foreign fisheries in the northeast Pacific Ocean and eastern Bering Sea. N.Am.J.Fish.Manage. (2):122–31
Gulland, J.A., 1983 Stock asessment: why? FAO Fish.Circ., (759):18 p. Issued also in French and Spanish
Kulka, D.W., and J.R. Firth, 1983 Observer program training manual - Newfoundland Region. Can.Tech.Rep.Fish.Aquat.Sci.(1355):171p.
Kulka, D.W., and D. Waldron, 1985 The Atlantic Observer Program: a discussion of sampling from commercial catches at sea. Edited by W.G. Doubleday and D. Rivard in Sampling commercial catches of marine fish and invertebrates. Can.Spec.Publ.Fish.Aquat.Sci., (66):255–62
Leaman, B.M., et al., 1981 Biological observer coverage of foreign fisheries off Canada's Pacific coast., 1979. Can.Tech.Rep.Fish.Aquat.Sci.(1006): 68 p.
Merdinyan, M.E. and C.D. Mortimer, 1979 Curriculum digest for the training of United States Fisheries Observer Corps-Atlantic region. Mar.Bull.Ser.R.I. Univ. Sea Grant Program, (URI-MB-34):72p.
Merdinyan, 1979a Manual for the training of United States Fisheries Observer Corps-Atlantic region. Mar.Bull.Series.R.I. Univ. Sea Grant Program, (URI-MB-33): 303p.
Nelson, R., Jr.,R. French and J. Wall. 1981 Sampling by U.S. observers on foreign fishing vessels in the eastern Bering Sea and Aleutian Island region, 1977–78. Mar.Fish.Rev. 43 (5):1–19
Poinsard, F. and S. Garcia, 1984 Stock assessment and fisheries management in the CECAF region: a perspective view. CECAF/ECAF Ser., (84/32):53 p. Issued also in French
Saila, S.B., 1983 Importance and assessment of discards in commercial fisheries. FAO Fish.Circ., (765):62p.
Thompson, P.A.,Jr. Japanese longline fishing: comparisons between observer data and Japanese quarterly reports for 1979 in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. NOAA/NMFS Tech.Memo. Pascagoula, (NOAA-SEFC-64):41p.
CODE LIST
DETAILED DEBRIEFING PROCEDURES
A. | Card type 2 Codes | ||
(1) | Country Codes | ||
Bulgaria | 01 | ||
Canada (Maritimes and Quebec) | 02 | ||
Canada (Newfoundland) | 03 | ||
Cuba | 04 | ||
France (Metropolitan) | 08 | ||
France (St. Pierre) | 09 | ||
Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) | 10 | ||
German Democratic Republic (GRD) | 11 | ||
Italy | 13 | ||
Japan | 14 | ||
Norway | 15 | ||
Poland | 16 | ||
Portugal | 17 | ||
Romania | 18 | ||
Spain | 19 | ||
USSR | 20 | ||
(2) | Gear Name Codes | ||
Shrimp Trawl | 7 | ||
Bottom Utter Trawl (Side) | 11 | ||
Bottom Utter Trawl (Stern) | 12 | ||
Bottom Utter Trawl (Unspecified) | 10 | ||
Midwater Trawl (Side) | 14 | ||
Midwater Trawl (Stern) | 15 | ||
Midwater Trawl (Unspecified) | 13 | ||
Off-Bottom Chain | 18 | ||
Off-Bottom Bobbin | 19 | ||
Longline | 50 | ||
Automated Squid Jigger | 55 | ||
(3) | Door Types | ||
Cambered or Rectangular | 4 | ||
Oval or Circular | 5 | ||
(4) | Topside Chafer Codes | ||
Blank | No topside Chafer | ||
1 > | Standard ICNAF | ||
2 | Modified ICNAF | ||
3 | Modified Polish | ||
4 | Multiple Flat Type Chafer | ||
8 | Other, Describe in Trip Report |
B. | Card Type 3 and 4 Codes | ||||
(1) | NAFO* Division Codes (Used for both card type 3 and 6) | ||||
Subarea | Division | Code | |||
0 | A | 010 | |||
0 | B | 020 | |||
0 | Unknown | 020 | |||
1 | All | 100 | |||
2 | G | 210 | |||
2 | H | 220 | |||
2 | J | 230 | |||
2 | Unknown | 200 | |||
3 | K | 310 | |||
3 | L | 320 | |||
3 | M | 330 | |||
3 | N | 340 | |||
3 | O | 350 | |||
3 | Ps | 360 | |||
3 | Pn | 370 | |||
3 | Unknown | 300 | |||
4 | R | 410 | |||
4 | S | 420 | |||
4 | T | 430 | |||
4 | Vn | 440 | |||
4 | Vs | 450 | |||
4 | Wd | 461 | |||
4 | We | 462 | |||
4 | Wf | 463 | |||
4 | Wg | 464 | |||
4 | Wh | 465 | |||
4 | Wj | 466 | |||
4 | Wk | 467 | |||
4 | Wl | 468 | |||
4 | W Unknown | 460 | |||
4 | Xm | 471 | |||
4 | Xn | 472 | |||
4 | Xo | 473 | |||
4 | Xp | 474 | |||
4 | Xq | 475 | |||
4 | Xr | 476 | |||
4 | Xs | 477 | |||
4 | X Unknown | 470 | |||
5 | Zg | 521 | |||
5 | Zh | 522 | |||
5 | Zj | 523 | |||
5 | Zm | 524 | |||
5 | Zn | 525 | |||
5 | Zo | 526 | |||
5 | Zq | 527 | |||
5 | Zr | 528 | |||
5 | Zs | 529 | |||
5 | Z Unknown | 500 | |||
6 | A | 601 | |||
6 | B | 602 |
* North Atlantic Fisheries Organization: The International Fisheries Organization that controls fishing outside the Extended Economic Zones in the Northwest Atlantic.
C. | Species Codes (Used for Card Types 4, 5, and 6) | |||
(1) | Numerical Code List | |||
Orange Filefish | 1 | |||
Scrawled Filefish | 2 | |||
Fringed Filefish | 5 | |||
Cod (Atlantic) | 10 | |||
Haddock | 11 | |||
White Hake | 12 | |||
Red Hake | 13 | |||
Silver Hake | 14 | |||
Cusk | 15 | |||
Pollock | 16 | |||
Tomcod (Atlantic) | 17 | |||
Hake (Unidentified) | 18 | |||
Offshore Hake | 19 | |||
Redfish (Marinus) | 20 | |||
Redfish (Mentella) | 21 | |||
Redfish (Unidentified) | 23 | |||
Tilefish | 25 | |||
Escolar | 27 | |||
Oilfish | 29 | |||
Halibut (Atlantic) | 30 | |||
Turbot (Greenland Halibut) | 31 | |||
White Marlin | 32 | |||
Blue Marlin | 33 | |||
American Plaice | 40 | |||
Witch Flounder | 41 | |||
Yellowtail Flounder | 42 | |||
Winter Flounder | 43 | |||
Gulf Stream Flounder | 44 | |||
Flounder (Unspecified) | 49 | |||
Striped Atlantic Wolffish | 50 | |||
Spotted Wolffish | 51 | |||
Northern Wolffish | 52 | |||
Tautog | 53 | |||
Blue Ling | 56 | |||
Wolffish (Unidentified) | 59 | |||
Herring (Atlantic) | 60 | |||
Shad American | 61 | |||
Alewife | 62 | |||
Capelin | 64 | |||
Salmon (Atlantic) | 65 | |||
Mackerel (Atlantic) | 70 | |||
Bluefin Tuna | 71 | |||
Swordfish | 72 | |||
Scombroid | 73 | |||
Arctic Char | 76 | |||
Bulleye | 78 | |||
Atlantic Pomfret | 95 | |||
Bigscale Pomfret | 96 | |||
Sheepshead | 99 | |||
Gadoid (Unspecified) | 101 | |||
Arctic Cod | 110 | |||
Spotted Hake | 111 | |||
Longfin Hake | 112 | |||
Blue Antimora | 113 | |||
Fourbeard Rockling | 114 | |||
Threebeard Rockling | 115 | |||
Silver Rockling | 116 | |||
Blue Whiting | 117 | |||
etc., etc., etc. |
D. | Card Type 6 Codes | |||
(1) | Sex Codes | |||
Unsexed | 0 | |||
Male | 1 | |||
Female | 2 |
(2) | Squid Codes | |||
Code | Meaning | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Length of Nidimental Glands in females | Length in millilitres | ||
2 | Gut fullness for squid | Gut fullness index | ||
x-y where: | 0 = empty | |||
x = stomach fullness | 1 = 1/2 | |||
y = caecum fullness | 2 = full | |||
3 = distended | ||||
eg: 0–2 | ||||
stomach empty - caecum full | ||||
3 | Presence or Absence | 0 = No parasite | ||
of Parasites | observed | |||
x = stomach observation | 1 = parasite(s) | |||
y = caecum observation | observed | |||
eg: 1–0 | ||||
parasites in stomach - | ||||
none in caecum | ||||
4 | Gut content - type of food in stomach only | Food types 1 - crustacean (CR) | ||
2 - fish (F) | ||||
3 - squid (SQ) | ||||
4 - unidentified (UN) | ||||
5 - fluid (FL) | ||||
6 - crustacean and fish (CR - F) | ||||
7 - crustacean and squid (CR - SQ) | ||||
8 - fish and squid (F - SQ) | ||||
9 - crustacean, fish and squid (CR-F-SQ) | ||||
13 | Parasite Type | A) Parasite Location | ||
A = parasite location | 1 = present | |||
B = parasite type | 2 = stomach | |||
3 = caecum | ||||
4 = stomach - caecum | ||||
5 = mantle | ||||
6 = stomach - mantle | ||||
7 = caecum - mantle | ||||
8 = stomach - caecum - mantle | ||||
B) Parasite Type | ||||
1 = Philobothrium (P) | ||||
2 = Dinobothrium (D) | ||||
3 = Nematode (N) | ||||
4 = 1 and 2 (P-D) | ||||
5 = 1 and 3 (P-N) | ||||
6 = 2 and 3 (D-N) | ||||
7 = 1, 2 and 3 (P-D-N) |
(3) | Stomach Sample Codes | ||||
Code | Meaning | Value | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
16 | Gut fullness for vertebrate | 0 = empty | |||
species ie: fish as opposed | 1 = 0 1/4 full | ||||
to squid | 2 = 1/4 1/2 full | ||||
3 = 1/2 3/4 full | |||||
4 = 3/4 full | |||||
5 = distended | |||||
6 = regurgitated |
(4) | Tuna, Swordfish, and other Large Pelagics | |||
Code | Meaning | Value | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
7 | Second dorsal fin length | length in centimetres | ||
8 | Gillraker count | number between 19 and 63 | ||
9 | Eye diameter | length in millimetres | ||
10 | Flank length | length in centimetres | ||
11 | Dressed weight | weight in kilograms | ||
12 | Round weight | weight in kilograms | ||
14 | Depth (straight measure) | measurement in centimetres | ||
15 | 1/2 girth (curved measure) | measurement in centimetres |
(5) | Groundfish Samples (and some small pelagics) | |||
Code | Meaning | Value | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
5 | Weight of gutted fish - on shore ie: after icing | weight in grams | ||
6 | Weight of gutted fish - fresh ie: at sea | weight in grams |
Note: In other fishing zones different coding systems will be adopted. Where possible, codes should be standardized on a regional basis and follow FAO procedures in statistical coding.
The following is a brief glossary of the terms an observer will need to know when working aboard a fishing vessel, discussing fishing gear, or completing data sheets and trip reports.
ABAFT: “Farther aft than.”
ABEAM: Bearing 90° or 270° relative from own ship.
ALOFT: Above the decks, on the mast, or in the rigging.
ALONGSIDE: By the side of the pier or ship.
AMIDSHIPS: In or toward the middle of a ship.
ASTERN: Behind the ship.
ATHWARTSHIPS: The direction at right angles to the centerline of a ship.
AWASH: So low that water washes over.
BATTEN DOWN: The act of making a hatch watertight by wedging the battens against the tarpaulins.
BEAM: The greatest width of a ship.
BELLY: (Body) The portion of the trawl midway between the mouth of the trawl and the codend. It attaches to the square and lower wings on one side and the lengthening piece, or codend on the other. The belly refers to both the upper and lower (and side on a Box Trawl) panels of the trawl.
BIGHT: A loop of line or chain.
BITTS: A pair of heavy metal posts securely fastened in a vertical position on deck, to which mooring lines and hawsers are belayed.
BLOCK: A device made of a wheel (sheave), inside a shell, over which a line or wire rope can run freely.
BOLLARD: Strong cylindrical upright on a pier, around which the eye or bight of a ship's mooring line is thrown.
BOX TRAWL: A four-panel trawl having a “box” like cross section. Recognizeable by four “selvedges” along axis the length of the trawl.
BOBBIN: A metal ball or roller used for protection of the trawl against the sea floor.
BRIDLES: The steel cables that attach the wings of a trawl to the ground warp. (Single cable leading from the doors.)
BULWARK: Solid fence-like barrier along the edges of weather decks.
CAPSTAN: That part of a vertical shaft windlass around which a working line is passed; used for heaving in anchors and hawsers.
CHAFER: A protective device fitted to either the top or bottom of the codend; topside chafers can be of three designs: Polish Chafer, ICNAF Type Chafer or Multiple Flap Chafer.
CODEND: The bag like end of a trawl that retains fish. Usually has the smallest meshes and can have a row of floats affixed on its topside. The aft end often has a series of rings through which a line can be drawn to close the net (cod line) or a piece of mesh can be rapidly sewn in to hold fish and cut out to release them. Also known as “Bag”.
COD-LINE: A difficult knot used to tie off the end of the codend in order to retain fish.
DISPLACEMENT: The weight of the water displaced by the ship, equal to the weight of the ship.
DOORS: (Otter Boards) Metal plates used to spread the trawl in the water.
DRAFT: Vertical distance from the keel to the waterline.
DRAFT MARKS: The figures fastened on the stem and stern which indicate the drafts of the ship.
FLOATS: Plastic spheres for added buoyancy.
FOOTROPE: A heavy cable forming the lower edge of the mouth of the trawl. It often supports rollers or dicks, and provides protection from hazards on the sea floor. It is attached by toggle chains to the fishing line which forms the bottom edge of the wings.
FOR AND AFT: Lengthwise of a ship, from stem to stern.
FORECASTLE: Forward section of weather deck.
FORWARD: Toward the bow.
FREEBOARD: The vertical distance from weather deck to waterline.
GANGIONS: The lines that support the hooks on a longline.
GUNWALE: The upper edge of a ship's or boat's side.
HALYARD: A light line used to hoist a flag or pennant.
HAWSER: A heavy line used for towing or mooring.
HEADROPE: (Head line) The line forming the top edge of the mouth of a trawl. Generally shorter than a footrope because of the overhang of the square, the head rope is often rigged with floats or kites for added buoyancy thereby increasing the trawl opening.
HYDROFOIL: The rectangular door design often used with midwater trawls.
KNOT: A unit of speed equal to 1 nautical mile per hour.
LEE: The opposite direction from which the wind is blowing. Sheltered area to leeward of a ship or other windbreaker.
LENGTHENING PIECE: A section of the trawl that fits between the bellies and the codend. Usually without a taper and of similar mesh size to the codend, the lengthening piece serves to allow a steady flow of water through the trawl. This prevents a “backwash” effect, where water is forced out the mouth of the trawl causing a severe reduction in catch.
LINER: A source of much controversy, a liner is a piece of mesh that fits inside or “lines” the codend, preventing the escape of smaller fish. Also known as a sock, liners are used surreptitiously in most instances.
MESH MATERIAL: The observer is not expected to be able to identify mesh materials at a glance, but should nevertheless always try to find out what type of twine is being used. Canadian vessels most commonly use polypropylene, whereas polymide fibres are more common on foreign vessels. Polyester and polyethylene fibres may also be encountered. Twines are further subdivided into monofilament and multifilament twines. This refers to the quantity of single strands used in making a length of twine. Occasionally twine types may be mixed for added strength in some multifilaments.
OTTER TRAWL: A generic term for any large funnel shaped net that is dragged through the sea. Can refer to Bottom, Midwater, Off -Bottom Chain or Off -Bottom Bobbin Trawls. Shrimp trawls are also scaled down otter trawls.
PAIR TRAWLS: An otter trawl towed by two vessels. Each vessel tows a single warp, thereby spreading the trawl opening and eliminating the need for doors. These gears can achieve huge dimensions, allowing larger catches which are processed by each vessel of the pair in rotation. Spain is the most common user of this system.
PANEL: A section of netting between seams forward of the codend.
PELAGIC TRAWL: Another name for midwater trawl. Used to capture pelagic fish species, or those that inhabit areas of the water column well off -bottom.
PORT: Direction to the left of the centerline of the ship as one faces forward.
PURCHASE: A combination of one or more blocks reeved with a line or wire. Also called TACKLE or BLOCK AND TACKLE.
ROLLERS: Large metal or rubber spheres used to protect the footropeand trawl from obstructions and rough sections on the sea floor. Chains are occasionally substituted for rollers in bottom trawls.
SAMSON POST: A vertical timber on the forward deck of a boat used in towing and securing.
SCUPPER: The waterway along the gunwales. Opening in the side through which waste water is discharged.
SELVEDGE LINES: Also known as lacings, these lines form the lateral axis of a trawl that separate the bottom and topsides of a trawl (or the top, bottom, and sides in a box trawl).
SHOES: The base of the doors that ride along the bottom (Bottom Trawls). Also serve as weights for the doors.
SIDE TRAWL: An otter trawl operated over the side (amidships) of a trawler.
SNATCH BLOCK: A single-sheaved block with a hinged strap which can be opened and the bight of a rope inserted, making it unnecessary to reeve the end of the rope through the block.
SNUB: To stop running line suddenly, by taking a turn and holding.
SPLITTING STRAP: A cable or rope that is loosely placed around the codend. Forms a loop, that when pulled taught will section off a portion of the catch, thus facilitating the dumping of fish onto the deck or into the bunker. (Especially vital in a side trawler operation).
SPRING: Any mooring line which does not lead at right angles to the keel.
SQUARE: A panel of netting rigged directly behind the headrope and overhanging the lower mouth of the trawl. Serves to retain fish that may swim upward in order to escape the trawl as it moves toward them.
STARBOARD: Direction to right of centerline of the ship as one faces forward.
STAY: A fore-and-aft support for a mast.
STRENGTHENING ROPES: Ropes that are wrapped around the codend at intervals in order to give it additional strength. These are fastened either to the selvedges and/or looped through the meshes.
SWEEPLINE: A cable used to pull the codend on board a trawler once the warps are completely wound around the main winch drum.
TICKLER CHAIN: Chains hung from the footrope to stir up fish from the seabed and into the trawl.
TRANSDUCER: A transmitter attached to a headrope used to transmit images of the path and opening of the trawl to a vessels echo sounder during a tow.
WARPS: Heavy cables that are played out or wound up to shoot or haul the trawl. Generally, trawls are towed using a 4:1 ratio, that is 4 metres of warp for each metre of depth. The part of the warp that runs from the trawl winches to the doors is known as the towing warp, while the portion between the doors and bridles is known as the ground warp.
WINDWARD: Toward the wind.
WINGS: The leading panels of net in a trawl. The upper wings are attached to the head rope between the square and the wing tip, (where the headrope meets the bridles) while the lower wings are attached to the fishing line off the footrope and extend back past the square. The wings have the largest mesh size in a trawl and serve to channel the water flow and fish into the trawl.
MISREPORTING BY TUNA VESSELS IN THE CANADIAN FISHERY:
A CASE STUDY ILLUSTRATING THE VALUE OF OBSERVERS
The following data illustrates a potentially serious case of misreporting quota species (bluefin and swordfish) by the tuna fleet (see attached Table 1).
With a 45.6% “observed” effort, in Canadian waters, bluefin and swordfish are being reported by observers at 72.6% and 85.2% of the total reported catch for the whole fleet. In contrast, unobserved vessels are reporting only 39% and 27.9% of the total fleet catch. “Catch and Effort” Reports from observed vessels are reporting bluefin and swordfish at 61% and 72.1% of the total catch.
Evidence points to bluefin being misreported as bigeye by captains on non-observed vessels.
Observers are reporting 37.3% of the bigeye total catch, as compared to 66.7% for the unobserved vessels.
Based on catch rates using observer data, unobserved vessels should be reporting approximately 110.27 MT of bigeye in comparison to the 134.6 MT presently reported on C&E's.
Calculations:
Observer Estimate: | 50.286 MT (Bigeye) | |
% Coverage: | 45.6% | |
Projected Total: | 110.27 MT (50.286 ÷ 45.6%) | |
Total Catch Reported (Bigeye): | 134.6 MT | |
Projected Total (Bigeye): | - 110.27MT | |
Difference (Bluefin): | 24.33MT |
By adding 24.33 MT to the total bluefin reported (58 MT) the sum would be 82.33 MT of bluefin caught.
Other evidence also points to misreporting.
Example:
Vessel: F/V Blueye Lady
An observer was present on this vessel for the first four days of the week. During this period the vessel's C&E showed the following:
Day 1 to 4 | - | Bluefin: | 2.5 MT |
Bigeye: | 1.8 MT | ||
Albacore: | 0.6 MT | ||
Swordfish: | 1.8 MT | ||
Day 5 | - | Steaming to Halifax, Nova Scotia. | |
- | Upon disembarking the observer, the vessel changed area from 4X to 4WG. |
The following appears on the C&E for days 6 and 7.
Bluefin: | 0. |
Bigeye: | 4.3 MT |
Albacore: | 0.8 MT |
Swordfish: | 0.2 MT |
The assumption could be made that catch rates for bluefin and bigeye were affected by area. This could be true, were it not for the fact that three observed vessels conducting their fishing in the same general vicinity reported the following catches for days 6 and 7.
Vessel | Bluefin | Bigeye | Swordfish |
---|---|---|---|
A | 2.8 MT | 1.5 MT | 4.5 MT |
B | 1.8 MT | 0.8 MT | 3.1 MT |
C | 2.6 MT | 1.1 MT | 1.3 MT |
This example strongly suggests a misreporting problem for bluefin and bigeye. It is likely that swordfish were unhooked and discarded on the unobserved vessel.
Projected Catch Rates (Bluefin)
Observer Data | |
Observer Estimate: | 42.131 |
% Observed: | 45.6% |
Projected Total: | 92.3 MT (42.131 : 45.6%) |
Catch Rate per Day: | .577 MT |
No. of Vessels Present | 27 |
27 x .577 = | 15.6 MT/day for fleet |
Bluefin Quota = | 180.0 MT |
Projected Total = | -92.3 MT |
Quotas Remaining = | 87.7 MT |
Projected Fishing Effort Remaining = | 5.6 days |
(87.7 : 15.6 = 5.6 days) | |
Observed Vessel's C&E's | |
Vessels C&E's | 35.2 |
% Observed | 45.6% |
Projected Total | 77.2 MT (35.2 : 45.6 %) |
Catch Rate per Day | 0.482 MT per vessel |
No. of Vessels | 27 |
27 x .482 | 13 MT/Day for fleet |
Bluefin Quota | 180. MT |
Projected Total | 77.2 MT |
Quota Remaining | 102.8 MT |
Projected Fishing Effort Remaining = | 7.9 days |
(102.8 MT : 13) | |
Mean: (observer & observed vessels C&E's) | |
Mean | 38.66 MT |
% Observed | 45.6% |
Projected Total | 84.78 MT (38.66 MT : 45.6% |
Catch Rate Per day/Vsl | .529 |
No. of Vessels | 27 |
27 x .529 | 14.28 MT/per day/vessel |
Bluefin Quotas | 180 MT |
Projected Total | 84.78 MT |
Quota Remaining | 95.22 MT |
Projected Fishing Effort Remaining | 6.6 days |
(95.22 : 14.28) |
There is a high level of confidence in the observer figures due to the fact that every tuna and swordfish is individually measured and weighed. Weight is taken either in its round state or in its processed state. (Processed weight is later converted to round using the appropriate conversion factor.)
Based on projecting catch rates from observer and observed vessel reports to the whole fleet, the fishery should be closed in 5.6 to 6.6 days.
Table 1
TUNA CATCH COMPARISON
(weight in metric tons)
SPECIES | OBSERVER | OBSERVED VESSELS C&E'S | UNOBSERVED VESSEL'S C&E'S | TOTAL CATCH C&E'S | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bluefin | 42.131 | 35.2 | 22.8 | 58.0 | |
Bigeye | 50.286 | 44.8 | 89.8 | 134.6 | |
Albacore | 20.895 | 17.7 | 15.7 | 33.4 | |
Swordfish | 47.995 | 40.6 | 15.7 | 56.3 | |
Yellowfin | 1.583 | 0.1 | 6.3 | 6.4 | |
Total Vessels Fishing | 25 | ||||
Total Fishing Effort | 160 days | ||||
Total Observed Fishing Effort | 73 days | ||||
Percentage Observed | 45.6% |
INTRODUCTION
The procedure outlined herein is a step-by-step method to calculate the weight of frozen fish product on board a factory freezer trawler within a reasonable degree of accuracy.
Frequent use of this method will result in sufficient data to support storage density factors for specific product types.
The method used to calculate the volume of empty spaces and/or fish products in a cargo hold is outlined. The various volumetric shapes encountered in the holds of fishing vessels and the applicable volumetric formulas are shown.
Procedure
1. Logbooks
The fishing and production logbooks should be thoroughly inspected to determine the total round weight of fish caught and the total product weight produced from the round weight. Determine from the round and product weight what conversion factors are being used on board the vessel. Query the captain for a detailed report of what is on the vessel by species and product type.
2. Ships Drawings
Obtain the ship's drawings for the various cargo holds. The total cubic capacity of each cargo hold (M ) can be obtained from these drawings.
3. Volumetric Measurements of Holds (see attached diagrams)
Having obtained the information required in procedures 1 and 2, measure the volume of fish in each cargo hold. If possible, the volume of fish should be obtained by direct measurement. However, if this is not possible, measure the total empty space and substract this from the total volume of the hold, thereby obtaining the gross volume of fish. This measurement, minus 10% for loose storage, equals the net volume of fish.
Note: When measuring empty spaces in the fish holds, measure only the useable space and not the outside dimensions.
Density Calculations
Two or three density experiments for each of the major product types on board should be conducted as follows:
Experiment 1 - Silver Hake: Headed and Gutted
Step 1 - Stack twelve cartons of Headed Gutted product in the same manner as you would place them on a pallet.
Step 2 - Using an accurate metric tape (nearest mm) calculate the volume of the twelve cartons.
Step 3 - Using spring scales, weigh the twelve cartons of product.
Step 4 - Weigh twelve empty cartons (including plastic wrap, etc.)
Step 5 - Using the following formula, calculate the density of the fish.
Density = weight of fish plus cartons - wt. of cartons volume (fish plus cartons)
Step 6 - Repeat steps 1 – 5 and average the factors.
Step 7 - Repeat steps 1 – 6 for each of the major species/products on board.
5. Percentage of Product On Board (by weight)
Using the information obtained from the production logbook, calculate the percentage of each product on board (by weight).
example: 75% silver hake - headed and gutted, 25% squid round.
6. Gross Weight of Products onboard
Using the density factors obtained in procedure #4, calculate the gross weight of products on board as follows:
gross weight silver hake - headed and gutted = (net volume fish x 75%) x density factor
7. Net Weight of Products
Net weight of products are then obtained by substracting 3% of the gross weight for excess water (glazing).
Net weight silver hake (H&G) = gross weight silver hake - 3% for excess water
Note: Because of the manner in which the density factors are calculated the weight and volume of the cartons are accounted for and no further allowances are required.
When measuring the volumes of fish or empty spaces, effort should be made to do it as accurately as possible. This may require measuring many smaller volumes (in areas with a lot of curvature such as the forward hold) to obtain the overall volume. If the volumes are measured as accurately as possible and a further 10% allowance is made for loose storage, then the results from these procedures should give a conservative estimate of the actual weight on board.
OBSERVER TRIP REPORT
Trip#: | |
Observer: | |
SECTION 1: ASSIGNED VESSEL | |
Vessel Name: | Side No.: |
License/CFV# : | Vessel Type: |
Master's Name: | #Crew (regular) : |
Flag State: | Home Port: |
SECTION 2: OBSERVER ACTIVITY
DATE | ACTIVITY | LOCATION VESSEL / POSITION | TIME DEP. ARR. | S.D. | L.D. |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Briefing | Halifax | ||||
Debriefing | Halifax | ||||
TOTAL DAYS |
REPORT BRIEFING, DEBRIEFING, TRAVEL, STANDBY, SAILING, TRANSFER, LANDING IN LOCAL TIME.
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS REPORT IS A TRUE AND ACCURATE ACCOUNT OF MY TRIP ABOARD THE ABOVE MENTIONED VESSEL.
Date |
Observer Signature |
THIS REPORT IS FULLY VERIFIED AND ALL WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION, NOTES, DIAGRAMS ETC., HAVE BEEN EITHER DESTROYED OR SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES AND OCEANS
VERIFIED: | DATE: | ||
ACCEPTED: | DATE: |
OFFICE USE ONLY:
SECTION THREE A DAILY TRIP SUMMARY | Page of |
OBSERVER: | VESSEL NAME: | LICENSE OR C.F.V.: |
OBSERVER ESTIMATED CATCH WEIGHT (KG)
Date | NAFO Div. Sub.Div | Fishing Status | Gear Code | Mesh Size | Sets Obs/Made | Hours Gear On Bottom | 1 | S. Hake | Squid | Cod | Haddock | Redfish | Pollock | Argentine | R/W Hake | Trashfish | Flounders | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2 | Cod | Haddock | Redfish | Pollock | A. Plaice | Witch | Yellowtail | Halibut | Turbot | Wolffish | ||||||||
3 | Shrimp | Herring | Mackerel | Cod | Redfish | Turbot | ||||||||||||
4 | Bluefin | Bigeye | Albacore | Yellowfin | Swordfish | Shark | Marlin | |||||||||||
KEPT | ||||||||||||||||||
DISCARD | ||||||||||||||||||
K | ||||||||||||||||||
D | ||||||||||||||||||
K | ||||||||||||||||||
D | ||||||||||||||||||
K | ||||||||||||||||||
D | ||||||||||||||||||
K | ||||||||||||||||||
D | ||||||||||||||||||
K | ||||||||||||||||||
D | ||||||||||||||||||
K | ||||||||||||||||||
D |
FISHING STATUS CODES:
KEPT | |||||||||||
DISCARD |
Estimated Catch Use | 1. For Foreign Groundfish Fisheries | 2. Domestic or French Gulf Fishery | |
3. Shrimp or Seiner Trip | 4. Tuna/Swordfish |
SECTION THREE B DAILY TRIP SUMMARY | Page of |
OBSERVER: | VESSEL NAME: | LICENSE OR C.F.V.: |
Date | NAFO Div. and Sub.Div. | Time GMT | Species Sampled | Sample Type | Number Lengths | No. Otol. or Morph. | No. Stomachs | Median Length(cm) | Unsexed | Frozen Sample | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Male | Female | ||||||||||
SECTION 4. FISHING PATTERN
A. Describe Captain's initial fishing strategy. Does he receive direction from another source (i.e. company, Fleet Commander). What species are sought? Are there limits on quantities? (i.e. Trip limit)
SECTION 4. B. Describe the following for each unique area fished during the trip:
Fishing area map reference (i.e. Area 1, 2, etc.)
1. Area fished:
Unit area(s)
Approx. Co-ordinates
Dates # Sets made
General description (refer to common name for banks,
canyons, etc.).
2. Catch composition:
Directed species Catch rate
(kg/hr or kg/hook)
Major by-catch species and percentage of total catch for this area:
Sampling summary:
Species | Length Range | Median Length | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
SECTION 4. B4. Briefly comment on food, feeding, parasites, maturities etc. (major species only)
SECTION 4B
Depth ranges
Water temperatures
Bottom Features
Diurnal movements of fish
Other vessels in area - state number, dates and nationality. (details to be inserted on Vessel Sighting Sheet)
Comment on the Captain's fishing strategy. How was this influenced by the factors listed in 4B 5?
Why did the vessel leave this area and where did it go?
SECTION 5. FISHING OPERATIONS
A. GEAR TYPE/MODEL | 1 | 2 | |
3 |
Comment on the following subjects:
i) mesh size | |
ii) topside chafing gear | |
iii) strengthening ropes
gear type 1
vertical: number distance apart M
horizontal: number distance apart M
gear type 2
vertical: number distance apart M
horizontal: number distance apart M
gear type 3
vertical: number distance apart M
horizontal: number distance apart M
iv) Obstructions | |
SECTION 5 B. LOGBOOKS
Comment on the following :
i) Was the International Fishing Log completed correctly?
ii) Comment on the accuracy of the Production Log.
SECTION 5 B iii WEEKLY COMPARISON OF OBSERVER ESTIMATES AND CONVERTED PRODUCTION FIGURES
SPECIES
Total Catch | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Date (Week Date | Obs. Est. | Log | Obs. Est. | Log | Obs. Est. | Log | Obs. Est. | Log | Obs. Est. | Log | Obs. Est. | Log |
TOTALS |
THIS COMPARISON SHOULD IN NO WAY PREJUDICE YOUR INDEPENDENT ESTIMATE. HOWEVER, ANY SIGNIFICANT DISCREPANCIES SHOULD BE FULLY DOCUMENTED.
SECTION 5. C. DISCARDS
i) Describe criteria used for discarding regulated species (i.e. size, company policy, spoilage, etc. Explain reasons for any abnormally high rates of discarding regulated species.
SECTION 6 VIOLATIONS
CHECK ( ) ANY APPLICABLE VIOLATIONS LISTED BELOW AND FULLY DOCUMENT.
LOGBOOKS | ||
1. | Fishing log | |
2. | Production log | |
3. | Trans-shipment log | |
INCIDENTAL CATCHES | ||
4. | Exceeded by-catch | |
5. | Exceeded by-catch - small mesh gear | |
6. | Exceeded by-catch - haddock 4 VW | |
7. | Exceeded by-catch - cod/haddock 4X | |
GEAR | ||
8. | Small mesh | |
9. | Liner | |
10. | Chafer | |
11. | Gear not stowed - unlicenced area | |
12. | Avoidance of set gear | |
13. | Unlicenced gear | |
CLOSED AREA (S) | ||
14. | Outside S. hake box | |
15. | Area B & C | |
16. | Whitehead Hole | |
17. | Fishing activity within 12 mile limit | |
18. | Unlicenced area/period | |
OBSERVERS | ||
19. | Safety of observer | |
20. | No reasonable assistance to observer | |
21. | Not allowing removal of samples/records | |
OTHERS | ||
22. | Discarding/dumping | |
23. | Licence not onboard | |
24. | Directing for unlicenced species | |
25. | Vessels unlicenced (trans-shipping) | |
26. | Direct for species - closed quota | |
27. | Retention of prohibited species (foreign) | |
28. | Retention of Prohibited species for the purpose of landing |
SECTION 7: | COMMENTS | ||
A. | Describe reception on board vessel | ||
Captain: | |||
Crew: | |||
B. | Comment on any radio communication problems | ||
C. | Hold capacities (MT) | Frozen Fish | ||
Iced Fish | ||||
Meal | ||||
Others | ||||
D. | What restrictions apply to processing fish or offal into meal? | |||
SECTION 7. | E. | Inspections | ||||
Date | ||||||
Reason for Inspection | Routine | Requested | ||||
Patrol Vessel | ||||||
Inspector Name | ||||||
Results: | ||||||
Comments: | ||||||
SECTION 7. | F. | Others (refer to briefing instructions) | ||||
SECTION 7. | G. | Personal Comments. | ||||
SUPPLEMENT TO TRIP REPORT
(TO BE COMPLETED AS REQUESTED)
SECTION 8. | Processing and Production | |||
A. | Production Machinery: (fish factory | Complete the following table for (Fish Factory each machine type on the vessel,including freezers. | ||
(a) | the theoretical capacity of machine to process fish (eg. if available, according to manufacturer's handbook. State source). | |||
(b) | determined by interview and/or observation the actual machine capacity (state source). | |||
(c) | reasons why machinery does not operate at theoretical levels. |
Production Machinery Summary (All Machinery on Board - Exclude meal plant)
Name Model | Function | #Units | Age | Comments |
---|---|---|---|---|
Section 8 | B. | Detailed diagram of the fish factory, including Flowchart |
Section 8 | C. | Detailed diagram of the fish meal plant and flowchart. Describe the process. |
SUPPLEMENT TO TRIP REPORT
(TO BE COMPLETED AS REQUESTED
Section 8 | F) Fish Product Weight Analysis | PWA # |
Complete one page for each product weight analysis (PWA). One PWA consists of 10 replicate product weights. If it is not possible to attain 10 product weights one must weigh the greatest number of product weights possible (up to 10). Record each individual weight taken.
Species | Date | ||
Product Form | Packaging Method | ||
Stamped Weight | kg. | ||
If Not Stamped, Recorded Wt. |
(I) GROSS WEIGHT (KG) | ||||
1. | (II) | Avg. gross weight | ||
Carton, Packaging, strapping etc (-) | ||||
2. | Gross product weight = | |||
3. | (III) | Gross product weight x % | ||
water content (glazing etc) = | ||||
4. | actual weight of water contained | |||
in product | ||||
5. | (a) water content % provided by vessel | |||
Yes ( ) No ( ) | ||||
6. | (b) water content % determined by | |||
observer | ||||
7. | Yes ( ) No( ) | |||
(IV) | Gross product weight | |||
8 | Water contained in product weight (-) | |||
Net product weight = | ||||
9 | ||||
(V) | NET PRODUCT WEIGHT | |||
10 |
(a) Type of scale used by observer! | |
(b) Date when scale was last checked for accuracy! | |
(c) Type of scale used by vessel! | |
(d) Vessel's method of checking accuracy! | |
(e) How well are vessel scales maintained! | |
Note: Questions (a) to (e) need only be answered for your first PWA if the answers on the following PWA's are the same. Please refer the following PWA's to the PWA that has been completed.
INTRODUCTION
For the observer aboard foreign and domestic fishing trawlers operating within the zone of extended fisheries jurisdiction, situations may arise from time to time where it appears that a violation or infraction has occurred which, by necessity, warrants further investigation on his part. While it is impossible to predict when, where and how rule-bending instances will surface and develop, he should be preconditioned on what action to take should these cases arise. In dealing with breaches of fisheries regulations, the observer must demonstrate tact and good judgement at all times.
Of primary concern is that each observer be consistent in interpretation and action. This undoubtedly requires a clear understanding of regulations and policy. In as much as it is not his responsibility to pass judgement on the seriousness of an offense when confronting the vessel's master, it is also unbecoming of an observer to comment on the correctness of the regulations while aboard ship. He should be guided by the motto “to observe, record and report”, while acting in the capacity of an observer, regardless of circumstance. Should he request and receive a boarding at sea by agents of the department, he is to follow instructions as listed under Section 2.12, “Observer Procedures During Inspection.”
In the sections which follow, instruction in the areas of notetaking, giving evidence and courtroom protocol are outlined. The general guidelines offered in these annexes will of course have to be modified in light of national legislation and legal procedures in each jurisidiction.
NOTETAKING
Law enforcement officers (police, fisheries officers, forest rangers, etc.) conducting investigations in the field are continually called upon to remember details. While no law enforcement status is granted to the observer, rest assured that he will be asked to describe or comment upon a number of areas ranging from his vessel's fishing operations to observed violations. He should be prepared to respond to these at any time. For example, during inspections at sea, debriefing sessions or following extended periods of shore leave. In order to help recall these events in detail, assistance is provided by way of a hardcovered diary.
Purpose of Notes:
(a) To Decide Course of Action to be Followed
In discussing the circumstances surrounding a case (violation)
with a member of the inspection team at sea, with a supervisor
once ashore or with the prosecuting attorney, notetaking ensures that
no areas of enquiry have been overlooked.
(b) To Prepare Official Reports:
A notebook acts as a ready index, to recall events in a chronological
order and facilitates the transcribing of action(s) taken into a
written report.
(c) To Assist in Testifying in Court:
The time lapse between the offence and court action can be lengthy
but the observer will be expected to recall all the details vividly
and notes will act as a “memory aid” in testifying.
(d) In Recalling Many Small but Important Details:
Items such as the vessel's side number, flag state, days on ground,
area licenced and the exact words spoken can all be very important.
Rules Covering Use of Notes in Court:
In almost all cases, notes must be in the observer's own handwriting, and they must be legible so that not only the author can read them but anyone else who has the right of access to the notes, such as the defence counsel. Notes must be made at the time of the event or if this is impossible, soon thereafter.
General Rules Concerning Notes and Notebooks:
(a) Note book covers should be labelled (on the inside cover) to indicate ownership, title, address, etc.
(b) Entries must always be headed up by indicating the time, date, day and place of the event in question.
(c) Entries concerning different events should be separated, by being lined off or logged in on a separate page.
(d) No blank pages - consecutive pages should be used.
(e) Ensure accurate entries. Depending on the situation at hand include the type of gear, weather, mesh size, total catch, species composition, master's logbook entries and, the master's name, vessel's name, side number, etc.
(f) Use concise notes but ensure they are understandable. Use of short phrases will aid later recall.
(g) Business entries only - avoid personal trivia.
(h) Omit personal opinions - they are not fact and may prove embarassing if your notes are examined at a trial by the opposing counsel.
(i) Omit confidential sources of information. This may prove embarassing for you and your sources.
(j) Do not tear out pages - avoid the inference that you destroyed something that may have been beneficial to the accused.
(k) Diagrams or sketches will aid in recalling measurements and location of objects found.
(l) Retain the notebook in your possession.
As noted earlier, a conscientious observer will carry his notebook with him at all times and use it continually. He will avoid writing notes on scraps of paper, cigarette packages, etc., as they will ultimately be lost or destroyed.
To Ensure Complete Notes:
When you make an entry in your notebook ask yourself if you know:
WHO - WHAT - WHERE - WHEN - WHY - HOW
One of the difficulties experienced by many individuals when appearing as a witness in court, is giving evidence while under cross-examination by defence counsel. An observer's conduct in court, and the manner in which he gives his evidence is one of the most visible tests of his character. The observer may feel apprehensive about going to court where he may be cross-examined under stressful conditions. The following words of advice are to be taken seriously should circumstance find the observer in a court of law.
Be Unbiased: The observer's beliefs and attitudes must be unbiased. Details surrounding the case should be void of personal involvement outside the realm of observing, recording and reporting. Remember, the accused is innocent until proven guilty. The attitude of trying to do everything in our power to obtain a conviction is entirely wrong. The initial duty at sea is to secure all available information regardless of whether it is in favour of the accused or not and to present these facts in an unbiased manner if called upon to do so in court.
It is better to lose a case then withhold some information of benefit to the accused; or to introduce into evidence ideas of one's own which might inter the guilt of the person on trial. Guard your reputation and give the public a firm impression that you are absolutely impartial.
Oath: The taking of an oath is a solemn pledge to tell the whole truth in an unbiased manner. Let the court see that you fully understand the significance of this ceremony.
Speech: Speak clearly when giving evidence. There is nothing which creates a worse impression than an individual who mumbles on the witness stand. Take your time and speak so that everyone can hear you.
You will never be judged by the number of times you appear in court nor by the number of boardings requested and sea days accumulated. A test of your ability as an observer is noted by the thoroughness of your work.
Additional Advise:
CODE | INFRACTION |
---|---|
101 | retention for the purpose of landing prohibited species |
102 | harassment of observer |
103 | exceeded by-catch |
104 | direct for species - closed area |
105 | by-catch - small mesh |
106 | by-catch – haddock 4VW |
107 | by-catch cod/haddock 4X |
108 | small mesh |
109 | liner |
110 | chafer |
111 | outside Silver Hake Box |
112 | discarding |
113 | closed are B & C – Whitehead |
114 | avoidance of set gear |
115 | fishing activity within 12 mile limit |
116 | licence not on board |
117 | unlicenced activity |
118 | unlicenced area/period |
119 | directing for unlicenced species |
120 | retains prohibited species |
121 | unlicenced gear |
122 | fishing log |
123 | transhipping unlicenced fish |
124 | vessels unlicenced (transhipping) |
125 | transhipment log |
126 | production log |
127 | gear not stowed – unlicenced area |
128 | not allowing observer to remove samples - records |
129 | safety of observer |
130 | not reasonable assistance to observer |
131 to 150 | no problems – everything O.K. |
ACTIVITY CODES | |
---|---|
1 | Fishing |
2 | Transhipment |
3 | Jogging |
4 | Mechanical/Electrical Problems |
5 | Provisioning/Fueling at Sea |
6 | Port |
7 | In Violation - Escort |
8 | In Transit |
9 | Steaming |
10 | Double Coverage |
AREA CODES
Code | Area | Code | Area | |
---|---|---|---|---|
11 | 0 | 23 | 3Ps | |
12 | 1 | 24 | 3Pn | |
13 | 2G | 25 | 3 Unknown | |
14 | 2H | 26 | 4R | |
15 | 2J | 27 | 4S | |
16 | 2 Unknown | 28 | 4T | |
17 | 3K | 29 | 4Vn | |
18 | 3L | 30 | 4Vs | |
19 | 3M | 31 | 4W | |
21 | 3N | 32 | 4X | |
22 | 30 | 33 | 5Z |
The following communication procedures are to be followed when:
(1) relaying daily information to headquarters
(2) requesting a formal inspection or in the case of an emergency.
(3) requesting clarification on work related issues.
(1) To ease the number of daily calls to headquarters, a group leader or spokesman will be appointed for each three to four vessels and it will be his responsibility to collect the daily information of his assigned members prior to contacting headquarters. This information will be coded. To communicate daily with headquarters, your foreign fishing vessel has been cleared to use the patrol ships radio channel 4895 Khz. If this frequency is unavailable, your alternative is via the ship-to-shore operator. We prefer that you refrain from contacting any patrol vessel in the area to have your daily information passed on to headquarters.
(2) While aboard your foreign fishing vessel, should you feel after carefully assessing the situation that a formal inspection is required or that an emergency has developed, follow procedures as defined in Section 1. It is incumbent upon you as the person on the scene to think through the conditions and circumstances of a possible violation. Your message will be coded. Such a request would usually originate with the sender and not the group spokesman.
(3) To request clarification on biological sampling requirements, fisheries regulations, etc., it is advised that you seek the opinion of a fellow observer aboard another foreign fishing vessel. If an answer to your query cannot be given, follow the procedures outlined in Section 1.
Use discretion when talking to a fellow observer as other vessels may be listening. Notwithstanding fisheries regulations, criticism of your vessel is an obvious taboo. Communication of this type should be brief, generally not more than 5 – 10 minutes.
FILLET PROCESSING CODES | |
---|---|
Gutted | 100 |
Gutted, head off | 110 |
Skin on, blood spots, fin bits not removed (directly off the filleting machine) | 207 |
Skinless, blood spots, fin bits not removed | 206 |
Skin on, blood spots, fin bits removed, not trimmed | 215 |
Skinless, blood spots, fin bits removed, not trimmed | 213 |
Skin on, trimmed (peripheral flesh removed) | 205 |
Skinless, trimmed (peripheral flesh removed) | 203 |
Skin on, boneless | 212 |
Skinless, boneless | 210 |
Skin on, boneless, trimmed (peripheral flesh removed) | 202 |
Skinless, boneless, trimmed (periferal flesh removed) | 200 |
Conversion Factory Study Problem Types | |
---|---|
Code | Description and Notes |
2 | Minor adjustments to processing equipment by the crew in order to enhance product yield (machines more finely tuned than normal). |
3 | Major adjustments to processing equipment by the crew in order to enhance product yield. |
4 | Hand trimming procedures more carefully done than is typical (removal of blood spots and fins) leading to greater yield. |
5 | Reduced edge trimming on the top quality products leading to higher yeild (refers to trimmed products only). |
6 | Minor adjustments to equipment and more careful hand trimming procedures leading to higher yield (“untrimmed product”). |
7 | Major adjustments to equipment and more careful hand trimming procedures leading to higher yield (“untrimmed product”). |
8 | Minor adjustments to equipment and reduced edge trimming (trimmed product only). |
9 | Major adjustments to equipment and reduced edge trimming (trimmed product only). |
10 | Lost product (less than 1% of yield), atypical of this equipment. |
11 | Lost product (1–3%), atypical of this equipment. |
12 | Lost product (greater than 3% of the yield) atypical of this equipment. |
13 | Lost product (less than 1% of yield) due to improperly set equipment or crew interference. This was the typical situation throughout the trip. |
14 | Lost product (1–3% of yield) due to improperly set equipment or crew interference. This was the typical situation throughout the trip. |
15 | Lost product (greater than 3% of yield) due to improperly set equipment or crew interference. This was the typical situation throughout the trip. |
16 | Poor quality fish (i.e. - soft fish from extended deck storage) leading to jamming of equipment and resulting in reduced yield. |
17 | Addition of product by the crew during an experiment, leading to artificially increased yield. |
18 | Enlarged gonads in the fish being processed possibly contributing to reduced yield. |
19 | Full stomachs in the fish being processed possibly contributing to a reduced yield. |
21 | Headed fish (ungutted) with removal of viscera with the head. |
22 | Excessive removal of meat during processing due to improperly tuned or ageing equipment (typical of the operation). |
23 | Not the dominant process for this trip. |
CONVERSION FACTOR DATA SUMMARY
PAGE: of
VESSEL NAME: SPECIES NAME: TRIP NO.:
SIDE NO.: SPECIES CODE: COUNTRY:
SAMPLE NUMBER | SET NUMBER | DATE | PROCESS METHOD | WHOLE WEIGHT | PRODUCT WEIGHT | CONVERSION FACTOR | NO.OF FISH | MEAN LENGTH | MACHINE TYPE | PROBLEM TYPE | NAFO DIV. | SAMPLE TYPE | COMMENTS | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
YY | MM | DD | |||||||||||||
“Land X” has a 10,000t 4VWX silver hake quota for 1985. Seven vessels will be licensed to fish.
To better prepare an observer going aboard a “Land X” vessel, special briefing instructions have been prepared.
Briefing instructions contain the following:
1. | Background on “Land X” Fleet. | |
1.1 | Overview of the 1984 silver hake fishery | |
1.2 | Representative in Canada | |
1.3 | Fleet Commander | |
2. | Vessels participating in 1985 Fishery | |
2.1 | Vessel names | |
2.2 | Vessel class/description | |
2.3 | Production capacity | |
3. | Operational | |
3.1 | Fishing Plan in relation to production | |
4. | Regulations | |
4.1 | Authorized/restricted areas | |
4.2 | Incidental catch limits | |
4.3 | Mesh size | |
4.4 | Prohibited species | |
4.5 | Discards | |
4.6 | Logbook | |
4.7 | Set Gear | |
5. | Policies | |
5.1 | 1985 Foreign Guidelines | |
5.2 | Observer Logistics | |
5.3 | Skirt Policy | |
5.4 | Conversion Factors | |
5.5 | Amendments to license | |
6. | Situation Reports | |
7. | Specific Requirements | |
7.1 | Trip reports | |
7.2 | Product weight analysis | |
7.3 | TWOB | |
7.4 | Catch and efforts | |
7.5 | Assistance to Fishery Officer/Field Technicians | |
7.6 | Others |
1. Background to “Land X” Fleet
1.1 Overview of the 1984 Silver Hake Fishery
Seven vessels participated in the 1984 fishery. Two vessels were licensed to enter prior to the April 15 starting date. From April 5 to 14, 1984, fishing in the established portion of the Silver Hake Box, the two vessels averaged 22.1t/day of silver hake. Pollock was the major by-catch at 5% of the total silver hake catch.
The “Land X” fleet had a very successful fishery in 1984. The average catch rate for silver hake during the fishery was 28.5t/day with by-catch at 1.9t/day. The best catch rates were at depths greater than 200 meters. By-catch problems (haddock) occurred when fishing at depths of 150 meters or less. Several violations were reported by observers during the fishery. Of major importance was the haddock situation. Several vessels exceeded the 1% allowable by-catch level and haddock was underreported by non-observed vessels. This problem was identified and brought to the attention of the “Land X” representative. Subsequent to this non-observed vessels reported a higher by-catch rate for haddock than observed vessels.
1.2 Representative in Canada
The “Land X” representative in Canada is appointed by the “Land X” Minister of Fisheries. His main task while in Canada is to act as a liaison between the Department of Fisheries and the “Land X” Fishing Fleet.
Some of his responsibilities include -
(i) participating in bilateral meetings between “Land X” and Canada.
(ii) applying for vessel licenses and amendments to these licences.
(iii) reporting on a weekly basis the vessel's catch and effort.
(iv) arranging for the embarkation/dis-embarkation of observers.
1.3 Fleet Commander
The “Land X” fleet commander this year is Capt. Louis. He is appointed by the State Fishing Corporation.
Some of his duties are -
(i) ensuring vessel compliance with Canadian regulations and policies
(ii) orchestrating strategy for the fleet (e.g. selecting certain vessels to go on scouting expenditions.)
(iii) acts as liaison in getting observers to and from their assigned vessels
(iv) co-ordinates re-fueling and transhipments
(v) ensures catch and efforts are submitted on a timely basis
(vi) co-ordinates the twice daily Captains Conference.
2. Vessels Participating in 1985 Fishery
2.1 Vessel Names:
Mars | Uranus | |
Pluto | Neptune | |
Saturn | Jupiter | |
Venus |
2.2 Vessel Class/Description
As was the case in 1984, “Land X” is sending its Galaxy built “Planet” class vessels to harvest silver hake. These vessels are approximately 107 meters in over-all-length and carry a crew of 85 to 100. These vessels are equipped with conveniences such as Satnav and have sophisticated radio gear.
2.3 Production Capacity
“Planet” class vessels, equipped with various Baader machines, are capable of producing up to 70 tons of product a day. Seldom, however, do they exceed 40 tons a day. The “Planet” class vessels are also capable of producing 8 to 10 tons of fishmeal a day, although 5 to 6 tons is more the average.
3. Operational
3.1 Fishing Plans in Relation to Production
The “Land X” fishing fleet follows a trip plan formulated by the state corpportion. This plan, administered by the fleet commander, is a system of quotas for various product forms that a vessel is required to fulfill or surpass. Achieving the planned objectives is reinforced by a monetary bonus for the captain and crew and often this becomes the motivation behind the vessel's activities.
Silver hake, the licensed species, will be processed in a variety of ways on board the vessels. The most common form is round, while headed/gutted is favoured for monetary reasons. Silver hake is also processed as skin-on fillets, minced and as fishmeal. Major by-catch species will be produced in similar product forms as the directed species.
Processing on “Land X” vessels will in most cases be carried out by Baader processing machinery, notably Baader 160, 423, 33 and 692.
4. Regulations
4.1 Authorized/Restricted Areas
The opening date of the silver hake fishery has been adjusted from April 15 to April 1 for 5 vessels. This (as was the case in 1984) is on an experimental basis only.
All vessels licensed to fish for silver hake will be authorized to fish in those portions of Fishing Zone 4 that are within 4VsWX, south and east of the line bounded by the following co-ordinates:
42°10'N | 65°30'W, | with the western boundary of the area being a line extending south and east (140 degrees true) from this co-ordinate |
42°49'N | 64°11'W | |
43°00'N | 63°30'W | |
43°04'N | 62°30'W | |
43°04'N | 62°00'W | |
43°22'N | 61°09'W | |
43°39'N | 60°00'W | |
44°03'N | 59°00'W, | with the eastern boundary of the area being a line extending due south (180 degrees true) from this co-ordinate. |
Fishing and support activities of any nature is prohibited in Subarea 5 and that portion of Division 4X of Subarea 4 south and west of a line connecting the following co-ordinates:
43°50'N | 66°54'W | |
42°35'N | 67°04'W | |
42°20'N | 66°00'W | |
42°10'N | 65°30'W |
With the western boundary of the area being a line extending south and east 140 degrees true from the last co-ordinate.
No fishing or fishery support activity is authorized in the territorial sea or internal waters of Canada. Fishing or support activities of any nature is prohibited in division 3Ps. Vessels fishing must remain 12 miles from the baseline of Sable Island.
4.2 Incidental Catch Limits
As per Section 9(1)(2) and 10(1)(2) of the “Foreign Vessel Fishing Regulations.” These sections state that haddock is restricted to 2500 kgs. or 1% in 4VWX. Cod is also limited to 2500 kgs. or 1% in 4X. All other species of finfish are subject to 2500 kgs. or 10%. Vessels may legally retain up to 2500 kgs. per species per quota area without being in violation. Once this level has been surpassed then the percentage rule applies.
% rule = | Round Weight of Species | × 100 |
Total Round Weight on board of all species caught in the quota area. |
When incidental catches become a problem the observer should assess the situation by:
(i) noting if the problem was a sudden occurence or a gradual build-up
(ii) observing whether or not the Captain changed area (at least 5 nautical miles) and depth
(iii) contacting other observers in the area to determine if their vessels are experiencing the same problem.
Any problems with incidental catch should be reported with full particulars to Regional Headquarters (DFO-Halifax).
As was the case in 1984, haddock by-catch will be monitored on an individual vessel basis; however, consideration will be given to assessing problems with by-catch on a fleet basis if problems are small and localized.
4.3 Mesh Size
The minimum mesh size while fishing for silver hake is 60 mm. This size applies for the entire net and not just the cod-end. When monitoring mesh size the observer should look at the cod-end and the lengthening piece. It is in this area where small meshes are usually found.
4.4 Prohibited Species
There are five prohibited species. When caught they should be returned to the water immediately; alive if possible.
These species are: | (i) Salmon | |
(ii) Crustaceans (Lobsters and Crabs) | ||
(iii) Swordfish | ||
(iv) Bluefin Tuna | ||
(v) Marine Mammals |
4.5 Discards
Section 36 of the Foreign Vessel Fishing Regulations prohibits the dumping of species listed in Schedule I of the same regulations. However, the selective culling of damaged or non-useable fish is permitted under fisheries regulations. It is preferred that all damaged/ small regulated species be put into fishmeal.
Observers are to document and report discarding of all regulated species. All discards are to be accurately recorded in the International Fishing Logbook and are to be reported on weekly catch and efforts.
4.6 Logbooks
Section II, d(vi), e(iii) and f of the “Coastal Fisheries Protection Regulations” govern logbook requirements.
The International Fishing Logbook must be completed on a set by set basis. Converted production figures can be used if the catch of a tow is fully processed before the next tow is dumped. However, if there is a backlog, then estimates must be entered into the Fishing Logbook. It is permissable for the captain or his designate to record catch composition after each tow in their own logbooks provided that these figures remain unchanged and are entered in the Canadian Logbook at 2400 GMT OF THAT DAY. When monitoring catch composition in the logbook the observer should use a tolerance of 20 kgs. per individual species except for haddock where all weight must be recorded. The Production Logbook records actual production in the 24 hour GMT day. No carry-over will be permitted. This actual production also applies to fishmeal.
The observer is to assist the Captain in the first two days of his trip in the proper completion of logbooks, (remember however, that your estimates are confidential and should not be given or discussed with the Captain). This exercise should only be done if it is requested or if it is deemed necessary by the observer.
After this exercise, the observer should advise the Captain at least one more time on proper logbook maintenance. If problems continue, the observer is to fully document and report the situation to Regional Headquarters (DFO-Halifax).
One of the most common problems encountered with logbooks is the misreporting of fish species (e.g. skates or cusk for haddock). If this situation develops into a major problem then it should be fully documented.
4.7 Set Gear
Section 33 of the Foreign Vessel Fishing Regulations states that a vessel must avoid set gear by at least 1/2 nautical mile. As was the case in 1984, domestic crab fishing vessels have and will set gear on the Scotian Shelf within the Silver Hake Box. The observer is to fully document any conflicts with set gear. It traps are hauled back, the observer should not remove any tags on the traps but rather record it for future reference.
Updates of gear positions are passed to the “Land X” representative by the fishing companies. It is his responsibility to ensure that these positions are passed to the Captains and Fleet Commander. DFO will also keep the observer abreast of updated or new gear co-ordinates as they become available. When in an area of set gear the observer must remain alert of the vessels movement at all times; frequent bridge watches are recommended.
The “Land X” fleet has agreed to standby on 2182 KHZ and to monitor VHF channel 16 when Canadian vessels are nearby.
5. Policies
5.1 1985 Foreign Guidelines
These are included for information purposes only, (of importance to this fishery are the sections on Catch and Effort, Logbooks and Observer Program).
5.2 Observer Logistics
Transfers are left to the observers discretion, (i.e. weather conditions, transfer craft, etc.).
When transferring, it is mandatory that survival suits be worn. These suits should be worn so that they are fully functional. (i.e. fully zippered, hat on, etc.)
5.3 Cod-end Skirt
Maximum 70 cm. long and tied a maximum 5 meshes from cod-line.
5.4 Conversion Factors
The use of 1.6 for silver hake headed/gutted and headed/gutted trimmed is mandatory. Vessels will be permitted to use their own conversion factors for all other product forms. The “Land X” fleet usually uses 3 standardized conversion factors: 1.6 for all headed/gutted fish, 3.0 for all fillets and 5.0 for fishmeal.
5.5 Amendments to License
The Department of Fisheries has recently concluded a study of its foreign licencing routines and has implemented some changes in the licence amendment procedure for 1985, on a trial basis.
Under the present system, amendments must be placed on board the vessel within a ten (10) day period. For 1985, vessels may receive amendments at sea via radio telegraph and obtain the hard copy amendment at a more convenient time.
The new system will be subject to the following conditions:
(i) DFO will require written confirmation of receipt and understanding of the amendment from the vessel master through the flag state representative.
(ii) The master may not fish in accordance with the amendment until the confirmation has been sent.
6. Situation Reports
To be sent weekly. Sitrep to cover the period Monday to Sunday G.M.T.
7. Specific Requirements
7.1 Trip Report
Do all sections as required.
7.2 Product Weight Analyses
Regular and random product weight analyses are mandatory. All final average product weights should be in net weight (not including box and glazing). All product forms were over-packed by 1.5% to 13.8% in 1984.
Ensure that your scales are calibrated before departure. They should also be well maintained while on board the vessel.
7.3 Total Weight On Board
Verify TWOB telex with hold check. Obtain copy and include with trip report.
7.4 Catch and Efforts
Check weekly C&E's with line 53 of the International Fishing Log.
7.5 Assistance to Fishery Officers and Field Technicians
Observers are to provide assistance to Fishery Officers and Field Technicians as required.
7.6 Other
(i) Observers are reminded that all matters in relation to regulations must be addressed to the Master of the vessel.
(ii) Monitor fishmeal production closely. Excess meal from offal is to be recorded as round silver hake.
(iii) You are required to do a comparison between your estimates to weekly round weight from the production log. A comparison of these two totals in tabular form, by week, should be included in your diary. Significant weekly discrepancies should be verbally communicated to DFO when you send your sitrep.
(iv) Sign in and out of both logbooks.
(v) You should be on board your departure vessel at least one hour prior to sailing.
(vi) The “Land X” Fishing Fleet working channel will be VHF channel 47.
(vii) You are not to leave your assigned vessel until offical notification has been received from DFO.
(viii) FINAL SITREPS are to be submitted upon landing.
(ix) You are to keep DFO informed daily of your status if you are not at sea.
(x) IF YOU ARRIVE IN HALIFAX BEFORE 1400 LT. YOU ARE TO BE DEBRIEFED ON THE SAME DAY.
(xi) ATTACHMENTS:
(1) Foreign Guidelines/85
I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THESE INSTRUCTIONS AND WILL CARRY THEM OUT AS REQUIRED.
'S SIGNATURE:
BRIEFER'S SIGNATURE:
DATE:
Length Frequencies
It is suggested that s on large “Land Y” freezer trawlers employ the same strategy as on “Land X and Z” vessels. This involves three samples a day whenever possible. One sample should be for the directed species cod; the second sample should be for a major by-catch species (in this case haddock, pollock, redfish, and flatfishes are priorities in the order indicated); the third sample should be for discards or reduction of either the directed species or a major by-catch. In cases where discards or fish for reduction are not available, the should attempt a second by-catch sample.
It is acknowledged that there will be days for which three samples cannot reasonably be expected: These include days during which the is involved in:
(a) otolith or stomach collection
(b) product weight analysis
(c) transmission of situation reports
(d) assisting a boarding party
On “Land Y” based wetfish trawlers, two samples a day (directed species and a by-catch) can be condisered sufficient.
Otoliths
As in the past, our main concern with this fishery is division 4VN. However, because there is always a chance that a Scotia Fundy may be the only person in a given place at a given time, we will also request some otoliths from divisions 4RS and 3Ps. The following is suggested:
4Vn | Cod | - three pairs per length group (unsexed) per month |
Pollock | - three pairs per length group (unsexed) per month | |
Haddock | - three pairs per length group (sexed) per month |
For redfish and the three major flatfish species 1 pair per month per length group per sex. Although it is highly unlikely that any silver hake will be caught, s should gather otoliths from this species whenever possible.
4RS | Cod | - three pairs per length group (unsexed) per month |
Haddock | - three pairs per length group per sex per month |
3P | Cod | - three pairs per length group per month |
Haddock | - otoliths from this species should be taken whenever possible (by length and sex) per month |
Maturities
There are no changes in maturity observations. Whenever possible the should be aware of the prevailing maturity stages of major species caught for the purpose of the report. Whenever otoliths or stomachs are taken, maturities should be recorded.
Stomachs
These should be collected in 4Vn only. Each of the four groups of species for stomach collection should be sampled twice if possible.
Frozen Samples
Not required.
Comments
In previous years, captains and crews of “Land Y” trawlers have seldom been at a loss for pertinent, interesting comments on the state of the cod fishery. Again, we ask s to record all relevant information. In addition, we would like to receive the captains impressions on haddock in 3Ps and 4RS.
I have read and understand these instructions and will carry them out as required.
's Signature:
Briefer's Signature:
Date:
(1) PROOFREADING OF CARD TYPES:
(a) Card Type Two:
- Proper codes for gear type and country.
- Wingspread not greater than length of headrope or footrope.
- Units of measurement used to express mesh size in wings
- Establish source of information recorded in order to determine reliability of information.
(b) Card Type Three:
- Start and end co-ordinates for the set, taking into account atypical tows (i.e. turnaround sets) relative to time elapsed for set.
- Time elapsed between sets, consistent with minimum required for hauling and shooting of fishing gear.
- Proper sequence of end and start positions for consecutive sets.
- Vessel towing speed not greater than 7 knots.
The Data Quality Coordinator will check positions on a chart to verify the reported NAFO subarea. In addition, he may (if necessary) plot Loran bearings which s routinely record, as a further quality control check.
(c) Card Type Four:
- Correct species codes.
- Composition of kept weight, ensuring that it includes reduction weight but not weight of discards.
- Species caught, ensuring that all species caught are listed including trace quantities of trash fish.
- Total kept and discarded weight for each species must be approximately equivalent to estimated total catch on card type three i.e. within 500 kgs.
- Utilization of comments section.
- Method(s) used for estimating reduction weight will be verified.
(d) Card Type Five:
- Species sampled and sample weight.
- Sample weight does not exceed total estimated kept and discard weight on card type.
- Sample type code consistent with manner in which total weight caught for a particular species is entered on card type four.
- Proper length grouping selected for measurements of a specific species (i.e. nearest 0.5 cm. for squid.)
- Soiled card types submitted with clean copies.
- Total kept and discarded weight for each species must be approximately equivalent to estimated total catch on card type three i.e. within 500 kgs.
- Utilization of comments section.
- Method(s) used for estimating reduction weight will be verified.
(e) Card Type Six:
- Correct codes for morphological observations; empty stomachs should not be taken.
- Orderly numbering of otoliths and morphologies.
- Indication that an otolith has been taken during the course of each morphology. (i.e. Y or N designation).
- Position and NAFO area agrees with card type three.
(f) Otolith Envelopes:
- Corresponding with total number taken as per card type six, separate unique numbers.
Deficiencies identified by the Data Quality Coordinator will be corrected by the observer.
(2) TRIP REPORT:
As with the card types, each unique element of the trip report is checked for accuracy with the data quality coordinator. Upon completion, the trip report is ready for immediate use.
OBSERVER: | DATES: | ||
TRIP NO. | VESSEL: |
(1) SAMPLING:
FISHING DAYS: SPECIES: TOTAL LENGTH:
REQUESTED: | SPECIES: | ||
LENGTHS: | |||
OTOLITHS: | |||
MORPHOLOGIES: |
EFFORT: | |
(2) CARD TYPES: | |
(3) TRIP REPORT: | |
SECTIONS 1 & 2: | |
SECTIONS 3A & B: | |
SECTION 4: | |
SECTION 5: | |
SECTION 6: | |
SECTION 7: | |
SECTION 8: | |
COMPLIANCE WITH SPECIFIC TRIP REPORTING REQUIREMENTS:
4) ORAL DEBRIEFING: | |
5) SITREPS: | |
DATE | SIGNED: | |||
observer | ||||
Data Quality Coordinator |
Day 1
- Introduction to the Program
- Description of Program Mandate
- Fisheries Covered by the Program
- Activities of an
- Biological Concepts of Resource Management
- Tools of Fisheries Management
Day 2
- Biological Sampling
- Biodata Recording
- Introduction to Domestic Regulations
- Domestic By-catch Calculation
Day 3
- Test on Material to Date
- Domestic Closed Areas and Seasons
- Discarding/Dumping Regulations
- Fishing Gear Components
Day 4
- Biodata Recording cont.
- Gear Regulations/Policies
- Foreign Fishing Regulations
Day 5
- Foreign Fishing Vessel Guidelines
- Departmental Catch Reporting Systems
- Foreign By-catch Calculation
- Discards on Foreign Vessels
Day 6
- Test on Material to Date
- Production and Fishing Logbooks - Foreign
- Conversion Factors
- Navigation
Day 7
- Biological Sampling cont.
- Species Identification
- Biodata Recording
- Navigation
Day 8
- Biological Sampling cont.
- Navigation
Day 9
- Test on Material to Date
- Utilization of Catch Data by Scientists
- Groundfish Management Plan
- Handling Violations
- Navigation
Day 10
- Radio Telephone Communications
- Situation Reports (radio)
- Handling Violations cont.
- Fishery Officer Inspections
Day 11
- Test on Material to Date
- Elements of Stern Trawling
- Radio Licence Examination
- Navigation
Day 12
- Trip Report Requirements
- Investigative Techniques
- Safety on the Job
- Navigation Examination
Day 13
- Writing Technique
- Employment Policies
Day 14
- Final Examination
Topics Covered:
Latitude and Longitude
Chart Projection and Information
True Course, Bearing and Distance
Publications and Notices to Mariners
Magnetic Compass and Compass Conversion
Lights and Buoyage
International Code of Signals
Radar
Loran C and Decca
Echo Sounder
Radio Direction Finder
Gyro
Position Plotting
Time, Speed, and Distance
Test:
Students will be expected to complete a written, practical and oral test involving the following:
Question: | Using the following conversion factors, complete and/or correct the attached International Fishing Log and Production Log: | ||
SPECIES | |||
Cod | Skin on fillets to gutted head on | 2.65 | |
Gutted head on to round | 1.20 | ||
Haddock | Gutted head off to round | 1.60 | |
Silver Hake | Gutted head off to round | 1.60 | |
Round frozen to round | 1.005 | ||
Illex | Round to frozen | 1.005 | |
Redfish | Gutted head on to round | 1.20 | |
All Species | Meal to round | 5.0 |
Question: You are deployed upon the “Land X” registered “L'Acadienne” which you boarded January 23, 1985. You sailed that afternoon from Sydney at 1600 Atlantic Standard Time for the fishing grounds in 4Vn.
The vessel arrived in 4Vn the next day and shot away at 2020 AST, 46°18.4'N, 59°09.6'W with a depth of 143 meters and directed for cod. The winches were shut off at 2030 AST, at 46°18.7'N, 59°09.4'W and 145 meters.
The Captain described the gear they were using as being a bottom trawl having a 60m footrope; 33m headrope; 2.7m vertical opening; 29.9m wingspread; 89.9m length from the doors to the bottom wing; 197mm wing mesh; 165mm square mesh; 146 mm. mesh in both the top and bottom bellies; 133mm codend mesh; and 1250 kg. oval doors measuring 180 cm.x 300 cm. There was a modified ICNAF chafer and 61 cm. bosum rollers.
The stern trawler has an overall length of 49.9 meters, gross tonnage of 690t, and 2000 brake horsepower. The Canadian Licence Number is 103010.
After towing for 3 hours and 40 minutes at 3.5 knots, haulback began at 46°25.1'N, 59°21.8'W with a depth of 136 meters. The trawl surfaced 15 minutes later at 46°25.1'N, 59°21.4'W and 133 meters. Out of a total catch of 20,000 kg. you estimated that 94.5% of it was cod, 0.45% american plaice and 5% skates. As the fishmeal plant was not working at this time all the skates and 900 kg. of the cod was discarded.
You shot away again at 0035 AST, 46°25.2'N, 59°22.6'W and 139 meters, with the trawl reaching bottom at 0050 AST, 46°25.0'N, 59°22.2'W and 138 meters. During this tow the fish meal plant was put back in working order. After towing for 3 hours and 50 minutes at 3.8 3.8 knots, they began hauling at 46°18.4'N, 59°06.6'W at a depth of 139 meters with the trawl surfacing 20 minutes later at 46°18.6'N, 59°06.4'W and 139 meters. In this tow you estimated a total catch of 35,000 kg., 89% being cod, 2% haddock, 4% witch, 1% american plaice, .5% yellowtail, 1.5% black dogfish, and 2% skate. All the flounder as well as 10% of the cod were reduced, the dogfish and skates were discarded with all the rest being processed.
You decided to do a cod length frequency sample from this and collected (prior to culling by the crew) the following numers at length (#-cm.): 1–31; 1–34; 3–35; 4–37; 7–38; 4–39; 5–40; 9–41; 10–42; 8–43; 5–44; 11–45; 6–46; 4–48; 2–49; 1–50; 4–51; 5–52; 2–53; 2–55; 1–56; 1–58;1–61; 3–63; 1–68; 1–81; 1–83. The total weight of the four baskets of fish was found to be 123 kg.
While you were sampling the weather deteriorated and as a result the vessel spent the next 30 hours without being able to fish. During this lay-off the topside chafer was removed to permit freer escape for small fish thus reducing the amount caught.
Finally at 1040 GMT on January 26th they shot away at 46°16'N, 59°16'W and 128 meters; 15 minutes later the winches were shut down at 46°16'N, 59°17'W and 119 meters. This tow was made at a speed of 3.5 knots, with the doors being hauled up to the gallows at 1255 GMT 46°24'N, 59°25'W and a depth of 125 meters, the net was then re-shot at the same position and depth 10 minutes later. At 1410 GMT the vessel began hauling once more at 46°21'N, 59°22'W and 127 meters with the net coming aboard at 1430Z, 46°21'N, 59°21'W and 125 meters.
Once again the vessel had a good haul with a 42,000 kg. estimated total catch: 93% cod, 1% halibut, 4% skates and 2% redfish. All of the skates were discarded, 520 kg. of cod along with all the redfish were sent to the meal plant, while the rest of the catch was processed.
You decided to attempt to fulfill your requirements for cod otoliths gathering the following:
Length | Sex | Weight | Maturity | Stomach Fullness |
---|---|---|---|---|
67 cm | M | 3.25 kg | Ripening 2 | 3/4 full |
34 cm | M | 0.75 kg | Immature | empty |
46 cm | F | 1.25 kg | Ripening 1 | 1/3 full |
56 cm | F | 1.60 kg | Ripe | everted |
81 cm | F | 4.75 kg | Spent | 1/2full |
70 cm | M | 4.20 kg | Spawning | full |
49 cm | M | 1.30 kg | Resting | empty |
48 cm | F | 1.45 kg | Recovering | 1/4 full |
You also took the stomach from the 70 cm. fish using tag number 33197, but lost the otoliths for this fish.
Upon returning to the wheelhouse you learn that the weather forcast calls for strong northerly gales and that the vessel is returning to Sydney immediately.
You arrive in port at 1210 GMT, January 28, 1985.
Complete the proper card types as well as Section 5 A and B from your trip report for this entire trip.
NOTE:- all fishing took place in 4Vn.
- Sydney is in 3Ps.
- at no times were bottom types obtained.
- the vessel directed for cod at all times.
- GMT = AST + 4
SECTION THREE B SAMPLING INVENTORY Page 1 of 1 'S NAME VESSEL NAME L'Acadienne LICENSE OR C.F.V. 103010
SAMPLING SUMMARY BY SPECIES
Date | NAFO Div. and Sub.Div. | Time GMT | Species Sampled | Sample Type | Number Lengths | No. Otol. or Morph. | No. Stomachs | Median Length(cm) | Unsexed | Frozen Sample | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Male | Female | ||||||||||
25/01/85 | 4Un | 0450 | Cod | 0 | 103 | - | - | - | - | - | - |
26/01/85 | 4Un | 1055 | Cod | 0 | 8 | 7 | 1 | - | - | 45 | - |
1.1 Domestic
You are deployed on board the International Sea Product's vessel “Cape Buffalo” (quota control class G) and begin fishing in division 4W on Feb. 12/85 for Redfish using 40 mm. gear. After two tows Catch #1: Redfish - 1000 kg; Cod - 500 kg; Catch #2: Redfish - 1500 kg; Cod - 800 kg; Haddock - 150 kg), the vessel steams to division 4V and begins to direct for cod using 130 mm. gear. Catches here are estimated as follows:
Cod | - | 70,000 | |
Haddock | - | 20,000 | |
Witch Flounder | - | 20,000 | |
Redfish | - | 10,000 |
In your possession you have a telex stating that class G and H vessels are restricted to a 10% haddock by-catch in Division 4V effective Jan. 31/85.
Question: | 1) | What regulations if any have been violated? Substantiate with calculations if necessary. |
2) | What action should you take in order to comply with your job requirements. | |
Answer: | 1) | Violations as per “Atlantic Fishery Regulations.” |
(a) Sect. 23 - Dual gear in large mesh fishery. | ||
(b) Sect. 9–1 - By-catch of haddock in 4V exceeds 10%. | ||
20,000/div/100,000 × 100 = 20% | ||
(c) Sect. 10–1 - By-catch of cod in small mesh fishery exceeds 10%. | ||
1300/2500 × 100 = 52% |
2) | In each case: | (a) | document all circumstances fully | |
(b) | check regulations to ensure violation | |||
(c) | advise captain | |||
(d) | inform headquarters. |
1.2 Foreign
You are deployed upon the foreign vessel “Rio St. Lawrence” which is licensed to fish in 4VWX for silver hake and argentine from April 30th and for squid (illex) from July 1 to July 30. As of May 30th they had caught the following:
Amount Caught (tons) | |||
---|---|---|---|
Species | Area | Kept | Discarded |
Silver Hake | 4VW | 300 | 15 |
4X | 100 | 5 | |
Argentine | 4VW | 5 | - |
4X | 10 | - | |
Illex | 4VW | 10 | 1 |
4X | 25 | 3 | |
Cod | 4VW | 45 | - |
4X | 2 | - | |
Haddock | 4VW | 1 | - |
4X | 3 | 2 | |
Redfish | 4VW | 10 | - |
4X | 5 | - |
Question: Was this vessel in a violation situation in regards to their by-catch? If so, which species and by how much? (Show all work.)
Answer: | Violation as per “Foreign Fishing Vessel Regulations”:- 4VW cod by-catch maximum 10%. | ||
(4VW total cod) 45 | × 100 = | 12.1% | |
(4VW total catch) 371 |
You are deployed upon the domestic fishing vessel “Cape Buffalo” and are presently located at 44°32'N 57°20'W.
The period of your sit-rep runs from Jan. 26 - Feb.1 1985. During this time your vessel has fished in the specified area (s), caught the amounts per species (kg.) specified, and discarded the amounts (if any) mentioned:
DATE | AREA | Cod | Haddock | Pollock | Redfish |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
26 | 4Vs | - | 35 | 470 | 21155 |
27 | 3Ps | 50 | - | - | 10200 |
28 | 3Ps | 25 | - | - | 5050 |
29 | 4Vs | 25 | - | - | 12080 |
30 | 4Vs | 30 | - | 180 | 6600 |
31 | 4Vs | 1065 | - | 10 | 8975 |
1 | 4Vs | 60 | - | - | 1025 |
Discards
Date: | Jan. 27 | Jan. 27 | |
Area: | 3Ps | 3Ps | |
Species: | Cod | Redfish | |
Amount (kg): | 50 | 2100 |
Other Comments: The vessel brought up some halibut longline trawl on Jan 30th.
At your briefing you were given the following violation codes:
J/C OK; N/W Priority Boarding; H/M Boarding up to office. Your matrix # is 118 and your number is 18.
Prepare the proper sit-rep format.
SIT-REP ASSIGNMENT
RESULTS AND SCORING
ALPHA | 18/118 | observer #18/Matrix #118 | |
BRAVO | H/M/N9T3 | H/M/112 | Boarding up to office/Discarding |
CHARLIE | 26/30 | 26th - 4Vs | |
27/23 | 27th - 3Ps | ||
28/23 | 28th - 3Ps | ||
29/30 | 29th - 4Vs | ||
30/30 | 30th - 4Vs | ||
31/30 | 31st - 4Vs | ||
1/30 | 1st - 4Vs | ||
DELTA | N802A3R7 | 44325720 | 44°32'N 57°20'W |
ECHO | TC 73025 | TOTAL CATCH = 73025 kg | |
30/00101180/0016660/ | 4Vs cod 1180 kg pollock 660 kg | ||
002349835 | redfish 49835 kg | ||
23/002315250/02195250 | 3Ps redfish 15250 kg skate | ||
5250 kg | |||
FOXTROT | 00232100 | Discard - redfish 2100 kg | |
MESSAGES | hauled longline gear on the 30th. |