The International Standard Statistical Classification of Fishing Gear (ISSCFG) was adopted during the 10th Session of the CWP (Madrid, 22-29 July 1980). See Annex M I.

Although this classification was initially designed to improve the compilation of harmonised catch and effort data on the STATLANT B questionnaires and in fish stock assessment exercises, it has also been found very useful for fisheries technology and the training of fishermen. It has been used in particular for reference in works dealing with the theory and construction of gear and for the preparation of specialized catalogues on artisanal and industrial fishing methods.

The 23rd session of CWP decided to review and update this classification in accordance with the effort by the ICES/FAO Working Group on Fishing Technology and Fish Behaviour (WGFTFB) since 2005 to update the technical contents of the revised edition published in 1990 (FAO Technical Report 222/Rev.1). The draft proposal of revision (Annex M II) was developed in October 2010 in collaboration with WGFTFB for the adoption at the 24th session of CWP planned in February 2012.

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