NFFO Annual Fisheries Reports

Transcription

A project supported by the DEFRA Fisheries Challenge Fund
Report produced by:
Paul Trebilcock, Nathan de Rozarieux
Cornish FPO / Seafood Cornwall Training Ltd.
March 2009
Page 1 of 46
Contents
Page
1. Introduction
3
2. Methodology
4
CFPO pilot AFRs:
3. Over 24m Beamer
5
4. Under 24m Beamer
9
5. Over 15m Trawlers
14
6. Under 15m Trawlers
19
7. Over 15m Netters
25
8. Under 15m Netters
31
9. Under 10m Multi-purpose
35
10. Conclusion & Next steps
38
Annex I
AFR Guidance notes
40
Annex II
CFPO vessel list 2008/09
42
Page 2 of 46
Introduction:
At present the ICES system of fish stock assessments is heavily reliant upon
official catch statistics, market sampling and the results of survey vessel trips.
Much of this information takes time to collate and integrate into the stock
assessment and policy formulation processes. There is therefore a general
recognition that there are limitations to this approach that can be addressed by
supplementing or complementing these more formal techniques with data
provided by the fishing industry itself.
The Fisheries Science Partnership programme (FSP) is an example of the
successful application of this approach. Much significant up-to-date and relevant
data is held by the industry but has not been integrated into the assessments or
management system because it is not captured and reported in a systematic or
coherent form. Likewise, industry information available to policy makers and
regional advisory councils tends to be provided on an irregular ad hoc basis.
Against this backdrop the concept of the Annual Fisheries Reports (AFRs) was
developed by the NFFO and its constituent member organisations. Financial
support from the DEFRA Fisheries Challenge Fund allowed the further
development of the concept into the project described below.
The key aims of the project were to:
1. lay the foundations for the preparation of Annual Regional Fisheries Reports
by preparing a template;
2.
test the report preparation arrangements through a pilot project working
closely with NFFO member Producer or Fishermen’s Organisations.
3.
put in place arrangements to assist fishermen’s organisations produce their
own AFR in future years
Page 3 of 46
Project methodology:
The project was split into three distinct phases, as follows:
Phase I: Development of template
The development of the project from a concept to a workable ‘template’ AFR
began with a desktop study of existing sources of fisheries science and fisheries
economic data. Consultation with potential AFR contributors and users was
conducted by contacting and engaging an informal AFR ‘user group’ forum
consisting of representatives from CEFAS, DEFRA (Policy and Economics
departments), Seafish, NFFO and Cornish FPO through meetings and e-mail
correspondence. This process was led by the desire to identify knowledge gaps
in the fisheries science, fisher behaviour (i.e. response to regulations) and
economics of fishing businesses. The next step was then to formulate a simple
and effective means of capturing and harnessing this ‘real-time’ qualitative and
quantitative from industry.
Following a period of internal consultation and iterations the first draft template
was prepared and then circulated to the stakeholder group for comment and
changes. The consultation and development phase supported the approach
presented and agreed that the best way to engage and extract relevant
information from fishermen would be through structured one-to-one non-leading
interviews with individual ‘sentinel skippers’.
Phase II: Piloting of template
The template AFR and supporting interview guidance notes were circulated to
three fishermen’s organisations for piloting in a number of different fisheries or
metiers. The Cornish FPO took the lead in this area and over a 12-month period
conducted interviews with ten skippers across seven metiers. Each interview
took approximately an hour to conduct, although it was anticipated that this
process would be quicker in future as existing AFRs would only need be updated
rather than produced from scratch.
Engagement and interest from interviewed skippers during the pilot phase was
very positive and many suggested additional improvements or information that
could be provided in future. Skippers involved in the project were also keen to
hear feedback on the value of the reports, both to fisheries scientists and policy
makers.
Phase III: Reporting
After each interview, the information was transferred onto the AFR template (this
can be done simultaneously in some cases) and then circulated in draft form to
other skippers within the same metier to ‘ground truth’ statements made and to
ensure that all relevant points have been covered correctly.
Page 4 of 46
CFPO - Metier summary:
1.1
Over 24m Beam Trawler
1.1.1 Fleet profile
No of vessels:
In-year fleet movements:
Avg. length:
Avg. age of vessels:
Avg. engine power (kw):
Avg tonnage (GT)
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
Avg. annual turnover (£)
20
2 de-commissioned; 2 sold
27.95m
44 years
545kw
140 GT
4 (reduced from 5 or 6 - fuel)
185 (range 165 to 225)
Page 5 of 46
1.1.2 Technological developments:
• Olex 3-d mapping across most boats in sector – greater confidence towing in
areas where damage possible and avoidance sensitive areas. It has also
facilitated greater fuel efficiency as vessels can now tow gear down slopes
and avoid towing over banks.
• AIS – greatly improved safety at seas as has significantly reduced likelihood
of collisions and ‘close-quarters’ situations – having no increase in fishing
efficiency whatsoever.
• Majority of fleet have beams fitted with wheels rather than traditional sleds to
reduce seabed impact and save fuel; however, on softer, muddy ground there
are problems with the current wheel configuration digging in. Therefore, work
continues on optimise wheel performance.
• Fish quality – all boats wash fish by hand as mechanical washers can lead to
increased damage / bruising of high value species such as Megrims. All
vessels now use rapid chill slush ice bins to pre-chill catches before stowage
in the fish room.
• While initial work suggests that there are positive benefits of using benthic
release panels fitted in the belly section of trawls to reduce catch of benthic
invertebrates, there are practical considerations which have limited there
uptake (e.g. chaffing, positioning on different grounds). Skippers are keen to
conduct further work on fine tuning the positioning of gear, but further funding
would be required to progress this area of selectivity.
• 95% of > 24m beam trawl sector signed up for Seafish RFS
1.1.3 Stock abundance – Patterns & Trends
i)
Seasonal changes
• Although there are no definitive patterns; some seasonal variations
have been noted, as follows: June – Sept: “slacker fishing” with
Oct- May “better fishing” for this sector.
• Cuttle season for Cornish beamers East of Lizard starting earlier as
partial change in fishing patterns to maximise fishing time by fishing
in more sheltered areas ensuring a full trip actually fishing (i.e. by
fishing in a less exposed area)
ii)
Spatial changes.
• No spatial changes reported (other than above) as traditional
grounds remain productive i.e. ICES Areas VII e – h.
• Regulatory burden associated with Cod recovery zones in Area
VIIa and VIId have discouraged vessels from fishing these areas.
Similarly, restrictions on use of 80mm West of 7 degrees W has
resulted in a complete cessation of fishing activities in this area.
Page 6 of 46
iii)
Changes in age structure of population / stock availability
• Continued good catches of Monkfish across a range of year
classes although size of fish varies by ground and depth fished
• Megrim distribution ‘patchier’ and again dependent on depth and
ground fished
• Soles really only considered as valuable and important by-catch,
generally favouring shallower water; however, in deeper water
catch rates are lower but fish tend to be larger
• Plaice no changes noted; consistent other a long time period;
fishing generally better to the East.
• Ultra- mixed species considered a vital ingredient of this fishery /
sector. Catches of a wide range of species have been consistent in
recent years, with seasonal fluctuations in some spp. e.g. greater
percentage of Cuttles during Autumn / Winter.
iv)
Market price changes
• Market prices generally consistent and have helped mitigate
against the fuel price hike seen in 2008.
1.1.4 Impact of management measures on fishing patterns / areas fished
1. The Regulatory burden associated with Cod recovery zones in Area VIIa
an VIId have discouraged vessels from fishing these areas. Similarly,
restrictions on use of 80mm West of 7 degrees W has resulted in a
complete cessation of fishing activities in this area.
2. The 8% margin of tolerance when fishing in ICES Area VII e is practically
and workable and rarely complied with due to ‘ultra-mixed’ nature of
fishery.
3. Days at Sea not favoured as management tool by skippers in this sector
4. Trevose box – should be more tailored to reach defined objectives.
5. Overall feeling of too many ineffectual regulations
Plot of > 24m Beam Trawl fishing activity:
Page 7 of 46
1.1.5 Economic features and trends
1. Viability of the sector as a whole remains achievable; however, fuel is a
genuine threat to the future of this sector. Response of many skippers
has been to reduce engine revs while steaming and fishing. Vessels also
tow and steam with the tide when possible. For example one skipper has
reported a fuel saving of up to 30% by adopting these measures.1
2. Skippers felt that generally prices had been more consistent in 2008 and
public interest in previously underutilised species had driven consumption
levels and prices to a high level – giving strong market demand.
1.1.6 Sentinel skippers comments / views / issues
•
•
•
•
•
•
Level of bureaucracy disproportionate and affecting day-to-day working
practices (e.g. having to give 4hrs notice of landing when working 20nm
offshore in a gale of wind!)
FSP applauded by skippers as part of stock assessment process and
would like to see it further expanded.
Skippers also felt that the FSP could be used as a template in
development of future regulations. This would help to ensure that future
regulation was both effective and practical at vessel level.
Local MFA enforcement reported as over-zealous and focussed on minor
detail rather than regulatory objectives. Skippers felt that arrogant and
condescending attitude of local MFA staff did not contribute to a
collaborative working relationship.
Despite some positive steps by Industry many skippers still felt that the
public and NGO perception of beam trawling was negative and based on
assumptions rather than evidence. There was concern whether policy
makers too could discern between perception and reality with respect to
this fishery. Skippers thought Government could and should do more in
this area of perception / myth-busting.
There are serious concerns regarding the Marine Bill and in particular the
lack of involvement and engagement of the Fishing Industry at the highest
(Ministerial level). As one of the main stakeholders fishermen feel
excluded from this higher level and question whether the involvement of
fishermen in consultation is merely a cosmetic gesture. Fishers believe
that they are able to deliver more towards sustainability in this context
than many of the NGOs
Interview:
Conducted by Paul Trebilcock with Skipper Steve Moseley (“Billy Rowney” PZ
532), September 2008; reviewed and validated by five others skippers.
1
Journal of Fish Biology, Abernathey, Trebilcock et al 2008
Page 8 of 46
1.1
Under 24m Beam Trawler
1.1.1 Fleet profile
No of vessels:
Avg. length:
Avg tonnage (GT)
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
Avg. annual turnover (£)
Gear specification
4
0 de-commissioned; 0 sold; 1 new
18.48m
22 years
221kw
70 GT
3.5 (reduced from 5 or 6 - fuel)
160 (range 140 to 220)
200,000
2 x 4.5m beam trawl, with stone mat
80mm cod end of single 6mm twine and
180mm back net.
Page 9 of 46
areas where damage possible and avoidance sensitive areas. It has also
facilitated greater fuel efficiency as vessels can now tow gear down slopes
and avoid towing over banks. Other than this obvious advancement
‘technical creep’ seen as much less of an issue in this sector as basic gear
has remained the same for many years.
• Majority of fleet have beams fitted with wheels rather than traditional sleds to
reduce seabed disturbance, save fuel and save welding costs. Work
continues on optimising wheel performance and durability.
• Fuel flow meters have been fitted to vessels in this metier for better
monitoring and consumption; vessels have also reported significant fuel
savings by adjusting sailing times to make best use of steaming with the tide.
• Fish quality – all boats confirm to best practice guidelines set and monitored
by Seafood Cornwall. Most vessels now use rapid chill slush ice bins to prechill catches before stowage in the fish room.
• While initial work suggests that there are positive benefits of using benthic
release panels fitted in the belly section of trawls to reduce catch of benthic
invertebrates, there are practical considerations which have limited there
uptake (e.g. chaffing, positioning on different grounds). ‘Bum holes’
developed as an adapted BRP – these are 1m open holes in the belly
designed to release stones and other un-wanted benthos.
• 50% of <24m beam trawl sector signed up for Seafish RFS
• Voluntary use of selectivity measures e.g. 220mm mesh in the top net (and
reduced drag / fuel)
Main target species: Sole VII f, g, Sole VII e and Plaice VII d,e
i)
•
•
•
•
•
ii)
•
•
Seasonal changes
Although there are no definitive patterns; some seasonal variations
have been noted, as follows:
Sole VII f,g - later Autumn fishery and further to the North.
Sole VII e – can be all year round, subject to quota availability
Plaice VII f,g – Oct – Nov Bristol Channel
Plaice VII d,e – Oct – Nov; Plaice VII Spring fishery
Spatial changes.
No spatial changes reported as traditional grounds (fished for over
20 years) remain highly productive i.e. ICES Areas VII e,f,g.
Trevose box closure has severely impacted on the historic fishing
patterns of these vessels during the Spring of the year as they
would normally fish further North.
Page 10 of 46
iii)
•
•
•
•
•
iv)
Good catches of Sole VII e and VII f,g with a wide spread of year
classes
CPUE ‘diary data’ suggest an upward trend with catch levels at, or
above those seen 10-15yrs ago. Especially in 2009.
Sole VII a no longer a viable fishery since laying of gas pipeline,
wind farms etc – thought to have killed the feed so stock reduced.
Plaice VII f,g – 2008 increase in catches, size of fish seen more
dependent on ground worked e.g. soft sand = smaller run of fish
and harder ground = bigger fish.
Plaice VII e – 2008 consistent other a long time period; fishing
generally better to the East.
a. Market prices for Sole generally consistent with higher prices
during 2008 (avg £7.80 ’08 and 8.60 in ‘07); however, prices
have been considerably weaker in 2009 (avg £5.90 i.e. 24%)
reflecting the wider economic climate for this high value fish.
1. Trevose box – impact on this sector - which has been proven to catch less
than 1% Cod - has resulted in displacement of effort and changes in area
fished.
2. Sole VII e – impact of Sole recovery plan means this fishery cannot be
targeted due to insufficient quota – resulted in seasonal diversification to
use 7m beam gear for primarily Cuttles.
3. Single Area licence – no longer possible to pursue traditional fishing
patterns which allowed flexibility during the trip to move for weather or fish
availability.
4. Local SFC byelaws (Cornwall, Devon, S Wales & Sussex) – lack of
historic rights given to genuinely local boats to continue historic fishing
patterns – seen as a barrier to progress and modernisation of fleet.
Plot of < 24m Beam Trawl fishing activity:
Page 11 of 46
1. Without ‘fuel spike’ of 2008 viability of the sector said to be improving as
the number of vessels has been drastically reduced, catches improved
and prices were good.
2. However, fuel is a genuine threat to future viability of this sector.
Response of many skippers has been to reduce engine revs while
steaming (not fishing). Vessels also tow and steam with tide when
possible. Fuel flow meters fitted and tendency to work closer to home,
increasing pressure on quota. Fuel also affected cost of landing / road
transport.
3. Skippers felt that generally prices have been more consistent than last
year and public interest in previously underutilised species (e.g. Gurnards,
Pouts etc) now being landed as there is market demand for these species.
The consequential reduction in discards should not be under estimated.
3. Vessels in this sector tend to be highly mobile - fishing different areas in
different seasons and over-landing to Plymouth fish auction where prices
are felt to be better for the species composition within their catches.
4. Although grossings consistent lower profitability due to higher fuel prices
restrict re-investment back in the business (e.g. quota etc)
•
•
•
•
•
•
Trevose box – ground within box reported as ‘dead’ and less productive to
flatfish and seen by skipper as same as results from North Sea Plaice
Box. Skipper would like to re-visit size, boundaries and exclusions in the
box.
FSP - support in principle to start with of engaging scientists but
disappointed that detailed knowledge of fishermen was not taken into
account – felt that opportunities had been wasted. To be a genuine
partnership and more effective it needs better engagement of fishermen in
the planning stage so that there are clearer objectives set and be more
flexible in approach.
Officials / Ministers negotiating for fishermen’s livelihoods must better
understand fisheries and should visit ports and fishermen with more
regular meetings. In addition, due to the complexity of the issues in the
industry it was felt that senior officials should stay in their jobs for longer.
Cultural shift – over last 10 years industry has contracted massively and
remaining skippers / owners are ‘professionals’ that are committed (and
have invested in) to the long-term future.
Public perception – seen as poor and industry hope for Govt. support for
measures being undertaken (e.g. FSP, reducing discards)
Despite some positive some steps by Industry many skippers still felt that
the public and NGO perception of beam trawling was negative and based
on assumptions rather than evidence. There was concern whether policy
makers too could discern between perception and reality with respect to
Page 12 of 46
•
this fishery. Skippers thought Government could and should do more in
this area of perception / myth-busting.
fishermen in consultation is merely a cosmetic gesture. There needs to be
much clearer objectives as to habitats to be protected and take into
account wider implications in the food chain e.g. as with Trevose box and
pre-disposition in favour of fishing (as in Scotland)
Interview:
Conducted by Paul Trebilcock with Skipper Stephen Nowell (“Nellie” PZ 10), April
2009; reviewed and validated by one other skipper.
Page 13 of 46
1.1
Over 15m Trawlers
1.1.1 Fleet profile
No of vessels:
Avg. length:
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
4
1 upgraded to newer vessel, 2 sold
20.81m
28 years
287 kw
3.5
230 (range 170 – 250)
Page 14 of 46
• Notus trawl monitoring system on 3 boats – improved fuel efficiency (5%) and
damage detection.
areas where damage possible and avoidance sensitive areas.
efficiency whatsoever… (MFA URGED TO CONSIDER THIS ELIGIBLE FOR
EFF)
• Fish quality – all boats fitted with washers and some using rapid chill slush ice
bins. Plastic sheets are also used to reduce discolouration and ‘drying out’ of
some species
• Majority of fleet fitted with multiple net drums giving greater flexibility in
changing fishing operations to suit quota availability and minimise down-time
when damaged.
• Most have ability to twin-rig which is a more fuel efficient way of catching fish
(i.e. more kg of fish / litres) – up to 40% at certain time of the year and without
this vessels in this sector would have struggled to remain viable.
• Most vessels now fitted with low reduction gearboxes giving more towing
capability for less fuel used. All boats fitted with Nozzles.
i)
Seasonal changes
• Summer fishery – at least 2-wks longer at either end of Season
e.g. John Dory, squid, cuttlefish, red mullet. (end of April to end
of October / Nov) – probable link to water temp and availability
of feed / food chain.
• Winter fishery - consequently shorter less Cod, Plaice, Ling and
less Saithe.
• Trend of milder, stormier weather has produced long spells of
vessels being kept in Harbour.
ii)
Spatial changes.
a. Haddock fishery – was thought to be on a 7-yr cycle of maybe
one or two good year classes but about 3-4 yrs ago this
changed to a multiple year-class fishery thus becoming a very
important, year round fishery for this class of vessel, bringing its
own unique problems with technical regulation (see below).
b. Squid & Cuttle fisheries – both become very strong in recent
years which have resulted in a greater mobility of the fleet
around the SW to target fisheries in different areas (i.e. Lundy in
July and Brixham in October / November). Greater period of
fallow time in many areas.
Page 15 of 46
c. General trend of Northerly drift of what was considered
Southern European stocks.
d. The losers… Trevose box closure resulting in effort
displacement and lower volumes of whitefish to the market
iii)
•
•
•
iv)
Changes in age structure of population
See comments above re: Haddock.
Very few small Hake seen.
Megrims seem a smaller run of fish.
a. During 2008 – prices seem to have peaked
b. Electronic weighing / grading / information flow to buyers seen
as an advancement to supply chain
c. Remote buying seen as vital to securing best prices with one
skipper reporting an increase of 20-30p/kg avg. across the
board by landing at Plymouth which had an e-auction system
1. The 30% rule for round fish to be on board if using 80mm is of a particular
problem to all vessels in this sector as vessels predominantly fish for
squid, red mullet but are catching an increasing amount of Haddock as
part of the traditional mixed fishery. However, with the recent increase in
the Haddock fishery this can result at times in 40-50% BY WEIGHT of
catch of Haddock, but as this only makes up 15-20% BY VALUE so
skippers are left with little room to manoeuvre. e.g. If they moved to
100mm they would lose 40% of catch by value, but if they stay at 80mm
they would potentially increase discards – which would be purely
legislative (i.e. over MLS and within quota).
2. For this sector - days at sea would have a huge impact on the viability of
the sector as the general view was they would need to fish for c. 250 days
per year and unlike the North Sea there is not the latent capacity in the
SW to provide a pool of rentable days – so this is a major added worry for
the future.
3. Trevose box – is far larger than the industry intended it to be and although
all fishermen in the sector agree with the principle of the box huge
displacement of effort has been caused because of the sheer size of the
area. Therefore, it needs to be tailored to meet the original objectives i.e.
to protect cod spawning areas – originally proposed by fishermen approx.
25% of the size of the existing box.
4. The 4 very large year classes of Haddocks demonstrates that this stock is
now well established in the SW and therefore the sector can see that if the
quota / TAC is not increased it could become a serious discard problem.
Suggest FSP work to be carried out with immediate effect.
Page 16 of 46
Chart of CFPO > 15m trawling activity
1. Viability in the sector as a whole is quite healthy (demonstrated by
investment in newer vessels), mainly due to a reduction in foreign fishing
effort in the area. But, effort of powerful Belgian vessels engaged in
trawling for ray into 6nm was seen as an unacceptable abuse of existing
rules and notice should be taken by all Member States of proposed area
to protect rays.
2. Trend towards shorter trips to maximise prices which have outweighed
increase fuel costs due to steaming.
3. Skippers felt that generally prices have been higher than last year and
public interest in previously underutilised species has driven consumption
levels and prices to a high level – giving strong market demand.
4. An increasing awareness from skippers / owners that ‘own marketing’ and
supplier agreements can greatly shorten the supply chain and result in
much better margins for both sides. In the longer term this indicates to
catchers that the way fish is sold will change and that only those
companies that genuinely “add value” will remain viable.
5. Fuel is biggest issue impacting on viability.
6. Higher costs have to some degree been offset by better prices; however,
there has been a shortfall and fish would need to increase by a further 2030p/kg to completely offset fuel. Therefore, although the sector is
confident that it will withstand this period, skippers believe it will have an
enormous effect on the size and type of vessel in the fleet.
7. Gear costs and electrical equipment remain relatively stable, but due to
fleet decreasing in the South gear tech. products are largely based in the
North.
8. Leasing costs remained stable. With trend in fishermen continuing to buy
quota needed to maintain viable operations. Little impact of Under 10m
leasing on over 10m sector. Due to smaller profits from these vessels
they are finding it very difficult to enter the quota market and many believe
that community quota initiatives such as the Duchy Fish Quota Company
(DFQC) are the way forward – suggest Government intervention needed.
.
Page 17 of 46
•
•
•
Level of bureaucracy - civil service budgets (e.g. Seafish) if managed
closer by industry much greater benefits and down the line greater
profitability for Government. To achieve this the emphasis must shift from
top down management to local bottom-up management.
Recognise
some good work is done by civil service in the industry but feeling of too
many ‘hangers on’ or ‘jobs for the boys’ who are freeloading on the backs
of the fishermen. This sentiment was echoed for the scientific side of the
Industry where often science budgets were being used to further personal
interests rather than where it is needed.
Quota management for all sectors should closely involve POs as they
have a long track record in this area and many problems encountered in
recent years, particularly with the Under 10m sector have largely been
self-inflicted by DEFRA/MFA and could have been avoided with help from
POs.
fishermen in consultation is merely a cosmetic gesture. We believe that
we are able to deliver more towards sustainability in this context than
many of the NGOs.
Interview:
Conducted by Nathan de Rozarieux with Skipper David Stevens Jnr (“Crystal
Sea” SS 118), July 2008; reviewed and validated by one other skipper.
Page 18 of 46
1.1
Under 15m Trawlers
1.1.1 Fleet profile
No of vessels:
Avg. length:
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
Avg. annual grossing (£):
Gear specifications:
28
1 upgraded to newer vessel, 2 sold
12.43m
20 years
181 kw
2 (reduced from 3)
190 (range 120 to 250) – fewer days
further West due to greater exposure to
weather
Size / type of doors, bridles and nets
depends on fishery, usually nets are of
85-90mm cod end with double 3.5mm
twine. 100mm when targeting Haddock.
85% of vessels are single rig and 15%
twin-rig, although those that can twin-rig
often fish with single-net depending on
target species.
Page 19 of 46
• Olex 3-d mapping growing across most boats in sector – greater confidence
towing in areas where damage possible and avoidance sensitive areas.
Although it should be noted most of these vessels tend to work existing tows
on relatively ‘clean’ ground.
• ARPA radar – first and foremost a huge benefit to sea safety particularly
when fishing in high traffic areas. Secondly, it allows other fishing vessels to
be tracked and avoid following their tows. Can be a disadvantage as other
boats can copy / follow tows that may have previously been ‘secret’
• AIS – greatly improved safety at sea as has significantly reduced likelihood of
collisions and ‘close-quarters’ situations – having no increase in fishing
efficiency. It is purely an aid to safe navigation, skippers frustrated by lack of
EFF support for this non-mandatory safety equipment
• Fish quality – all boats fitted with washers and some using rapid chill slush ice
bins. Some boats reducing length of tows to maximise quality.
• Majority of fleet fitted with multiple net drums giving greater flexibility in
changing fishing operations to suit quota availability and minimise down-time
when damaged. They also improve safety particularly when shooting net.
• A small number of vessels have the ability to twin-rig which is a more fuel
efficient way of catching fish (i.e. more kg of fish / litres) – up to 40% at
certain time of the year and without this vessels in this sector would have
struggled to remain viable.
• Most vessels looking at low reduction gearboxes giving and / or nozzles to
give more towing capability for less fuel used.
• New engine design seen as most significant area for fuel saving, but financial
assistance would be required.
• Satellite Compass interfaced with autopilot allows accurate navigation (much
straighter lines!) and therefore offer fuel saving.
Main target species: the fleet is divided in three areas / sub-metiers:
Fishery A: North Devon / Bristol Channel- Ray, Squid, Haddock, Plaice, Bass
Fishery B: West of Lizard – mixed fishery for John Dory, Haddock, Squid
Fishery C: East of Lizard – less mixed with pre-dominance of non-TAC species
(e.g. Winter / Spring – Lemons, Summer – more mixed – Lemons still dominate
catches but also monks, red mullet etc and Autumn / Winter – Cuttle with some
Squid.)
Fishery A:
i)
Seasonal changes
• Awaiting information
Page 20 of 46
ii)
Spatial changes.
a. Squid & Cuttle fisheries – both become very strong in recent
years which have resulted in a greater mobility of the fleet
around the SW to target fisheries in different areas (i.e. Lundy in
July and Brixham in October / November). Greater period of
fallow time in many areas.
b. Trevose box closure resulting in effort displacement and lower
volumes of whitefish to the market
iii)
Haddock - tbc
Ray - tbc
Squid- tbc
Bass - tbc
Plaice - tbc
•
•
•
•
•
iv)
tbc
Fishery B:
i)
Seasonal changes
a. Spring – John Dory & Haddock
b. Summer fishery – Squid, John Dory and Gurnards
c. Autumn fishery - John Dory & Haddock
d. Winter fishery – Whiting, Haddock and, if quota permits, Cod
e. Haddock has become a year round fishery.
f. Squid and Dory season has become longer particularly when
following mild Winter and Warm Summer.
g. Fisheries typified by ‘ultra-mix’ fishery
ii)
Spatial changes.
a. Haddock noticeably more widespread
b. Same areas fished productively for > 30 years
c. Less boats on the ground so more flexibility to try different
areas, meaning areas are left ‘fallow’ for longer
iii)
Haddock – more of all sizes
John Dory – yearly variations but yearly increase in catches
Lemons – increasing abundance on clean ground West of the
Lizard
Squid – consistent
Mixed fishery always subject to annual fluctuations but generally
consistent and some cases improving
•
•
•
•
•
Page 21 of 46
iv)
a. Prices not consistent on Newlyn for smaller trawlers and
therefore has encouraged some boats to overland to Plymouth
auction
Fishery C:
i)
Seasonal changes
a. Jan/Feb – Brixham (Torbay to Portland)
b. March - Oct – Plymouth / Looe moving West during Summer
c. October – Dec - Brixham for cuttle fishery
d. Cuttle season longer in 2008/09 lasting from Sept to early Feb
ii)
Spatial changes.
a. Traditional spatial patterns as described above – remain the
same
b. Lemons – tending to move further West as the year progresses.
iii)
Lemons 2009/09 – generally more fish on the ground but a higher
number of smaller fish.
Haddock – increase in numbers across all year classes
Whiting & Squid – less seen.
Cuttle fishery subject to year to year variation but 2008/09 was
reported to be very good.
•
•
•
•
iv)
a. Prices for prime fish and quality were good through QTR 1, 2 &
3 of ’08 but have since decreased.
b. Most skippers felt that better quality fish was rarely rewarded
with better prices.
c. Cuttle price generally good
d. Lemons 1st QTR ’09 price very poor
1. The 30% rule for round fish to be on board if using 80mm is of a particular
problem to all vessels in this sector (as described in the > 15m trawl sector
report above). This is particularly relevant West of the Lizard. Trawlers in
this sector DO use 100mm cod ends when targeting Haddock.
2. For this sector - days at sea would have a huge impact on the viability of
the sector as in general we need to fish for c. 250 days per year and
unlike the North Sea there is not the latent capacity in the SW to provide a
pool of rentable days – so this is a major added worry for the future.
Page 22 of 46
3. Strong feeling in this sector that capacity well matched to stocks and so no
further management measures needed (50% reduction in capacity over
last 15 yrs)
4. Trevose box – is far larger than the industry intended; therefore, it needs
to be tailored to meet the original objectives i.e. to protect cod spawning
areas – originally proposed by fishermen approx. 25% of the size of the
existing box. No relevance or impact on fisheries B and C.
5. The 4 very large year classes of Haddocks demonstrates that this stock is
now well established in the SW and therefore the sector can see that if the
quota / TAC is not increased it could become a serious discard problem.
Suggest FSP work to be carried out with immediate effect. No relevance
to fishery East of Lizard.
1. Viability in the sector as a whole is quite healthy (demonstrated by
investment in newer vessels), mainly due to a reduction in foreign fishing
effort in the area. But, effort of Belgian vessels engaged in trawling for ray
into 6nm seen as unacceptable abuse of existing rules and notice should
be taken by all Member States of proposed area to protect rays.
2. Trend towards shorter trips to maximise prices which have outweighed
increase fuel costs due to steaming.
3. Lack of targeted marketing seen as an issue for some
4. Skippers felt that generally prices have been higher than last year and
public interest in previously underutilised species has driven consumption
levels and prices to a high level – giving strong market demand for
Gurnards.
5. Throughout 2008 fuel was the biggest issue impacting on viability, but it
was stressed that while some savings could be made steaming to and
from the grounds there was little scope to reduce fuel while fishing :”if
you’re not burning you’re not earning” (Skipper)
6. Higher costs have to some degree been offset by better prices; however,
there has been a shortfall - although the sector is confident that it will
withstand this period, skippers believe it will have an enormous effect on
the size and type of vessel in the fleet.
7. Gear costs have increased (steel, oil & netting) – but doesn’t effect fishing
patterns
•
•
Technical creep – very small / slow increase in this sector
Quota management for all sectors should closely involve POs as they
have a long track record I this area and many problems encountered in
recent years, particularly with the Under 10m sector have largely been
self-inflicted by DEFRA/MFA and could have been avoided with help from
POs.
Page 23 of 46
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The biggest concern for all sub-sectors of this metier was the Marine Bill
and in particular the lack of involvement and engagement of the Fishing
Industry at the highest (Ministerial level).
A marked increase in static gear (both nets and pots) encroaching on
traditional trawling grounds was reported.
Due to UK licensing restrictions (i.e. CRZ etc) it has become impossible to
sell boats North; this contributed to the ageing of the fleet.
Smaller boats have little or no financial safety net offered by capital
reserves and many vessels were thought be one large bill from bankruptcy
(e.g. new engine or gearbox).
Trend towards a smaller number of professionally run vessels that
optimising time spent at sea by using two crews or rotating crews.
Some skippers felt that twin-rigging needs to be carefully managed and
more research needed to be carried out as the short term gains are
obvious but long term effect could be detrimental to the sustainability of
the fishery.
Newlyn market was seen as a problem as consistent prices and higher
returns for better quality were seen as essential.
Interview:
Conducted by Paul Trebilcock with Skippers Andy Giles (“Guiding Light II” NN),
March 2009, Roger Nowell (“Imogen” PZ 110) and Scott Wharton (“Our Josie
Grace” BD 277); reviewed and validated by two other skippers.
Page 24 of 46
1.1
Over 15m Gill / Tangle netters
1.1.1 Fleet profile
No of vessels:
Avg. length:
Avg. gross tonnage
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
10
1 sunk; 3 de-reg / sold
16.10m
26 years
61
215 kw –
4-5 (reduced from 5 or 6 - fuel)
165 (range 140 to 220)
Page 25 of 46
• Olex 3-d mapping across most boats in sector now have this or similar
system as it allows skippers to place their gear with great accuracy to avoid
being towed away by mobile gear vessels and to ensure the gear is in the
‘fishiest spots’ e.g. on a particular seabed substrate or in relation to
underwater topological features
efficiency whatsoever. Many vessels work within or close to traffic separation
schemes and report that AIS is invaluable as when called using the MMSI
number (name and number), ships are duty bound to respond. Hake and
Tangle netters can also transmit gear positions using AIS transmitter, which
has substantially reduced gear losses due to gear conflict.
• Most skippers report that gill-net technology or technical creep peaked a few
years ago when net clearers/stackers and Olex and other 3-d mapping
systems were available. Since then they report that there has been zero
increase in technology. Haulers restrict the depth that can be worked and
size of vessel limits amount of gear carried.
• Fish quality – VERY GOOD – Soak times reduced & all vessels have boxed
fish and refrigerated fish rooms and use slush ice insulated bins on deck to
pre-chill catches before putting away in the Fishroom. Trials by Seafood
Cornwall have demonstrated that this technique can extend shelf-life by 50%
• 30% of > 15m netting sector signed up for Seafish RFS
Wrecking
i)
Seasonal changes
Spring season appeared shorter with lower than expected catches
in January.
ii)
Spatial changes.
• Fewer fish on N Cornish coast wrecks due to exponential
increase in seal population, which appear have driven fish
(especially Pollack) off the wrecks onto the hard ground. Seals
have been seen on wrecks up to 80 or 90 miles from land, much
further offshore than previously thought.
• Over the last 2-3 years boats have increasingly fished in Area
VIII due to international quota swaps enabling vessels to target
the Pollack fishery on wrecks in Biscay.
• Boats fish over wider area due to seal issue above.
• Regulatory burden associated with Cod recovery zones in Area
VIIa and VIId have discouraged vessels from fishing these
areas.
Page 26 of 46
iii)
•
•
•
•
•
iv)
•
•
•
Cod – definite increase in stock abundance over all of the Area VII
e-k. All sizes (year classes) seen in fishery except smaller size as
would expect due to selectivity of static gear vessels using mesh
size > 120mm
Pollack – overall feeling of slight drop in abundance particularly in
the fall of the year possibly due to pressure from increased
handline fishing effort, particularly on smaller Pollack. Also, poor
Hake prices have led to increased effort on the wrecks from Hake
netters.
Ling – broadly similar to Pollack, although definite increase South
of the Lizard
Saithe – broadly similar
Porbeagles – increase seen in catches, particularly those with a
high concentration of feed fish.
Market prices generally increased and more consistent, helping
mitigate against the fuel price hike seen earlier in the year.
French market still leads but significant increase in UK demand due
to marketing of sustainability credentials
Increased effort from Hake netters forced to target whitefish due to
very low Hake prices could have a potential impact on Pollack
price.
Hake netting
i)
Seasonal & spatial changes
• Similar pattern to recent years with good Hake fishing to be had to
the West; however, vessels did not engage in this fishery due to
availability of whitefish closer to home, higher fuel costs and good
whitefish prices.
• Summer (June, July & Aug) – good Hake fishing seen, particularly
in around ICES Stat rectangle 31 E2; but due to a lack of Cod
quota and high abundance of Cod by-catch in this fishery the
Cornish fleet were unable to fully exploit this fishery – in fact forced
to leave good Hake fishing. Late Summer Southern Celtic Sea
Hake fishing good and a large run of fish were seen.
• Autumn fishery NW of Isle of Scilly better than seen in recent years
ii)
•
General view was that Hake stock improved with higher abundance
than in 2007. Majority of fish ranged from 2.5 to 3.5kg; bigger fish
up to 8kg+ seen during the Autumn; very few small fish seen due to
use of 120mm net (highly selective)
Page 27 of 46
•
•
•
iii)
•
•
Cod – as above under ‘Wrecking’ section
Spurdogs – high abundance of Spurdogs, usually large packs with
big and small fish throughout – impossible to avoid as purely
incidental (but valuable when caught) by-catch
Porbeagles – generally un-predictable in catch and distribution;
however, generally thought to be closely linked to feed distribution
patterns.
Very poor Hake prices all year, the lowest seen for many years due
to (in part at least) significantly increased landings from Scottish
vessels in the North Sea. Hake prices are so poor that the viability
of the fishery is genuinely threatened.
Whitefish prices generally good.
Tangle netting
i)
Seasonal changes
• No change – start May to August
ii)
•
Spatial changes.
No changes reported
iii)
Turbot – No change reported
Monk - No change reported
Skates & Rays - No change reported
Shellfish - No change reported
•
•
•
•
iv)
•
Market prices generally consistent and have helped mitigate
against the fuel price hike seen earlier in the year.
1. Low Cod quota and high abundance on the grounds has affected ALL
static net fisheries with significant discards leading to changing fishing
patterns and reduced grossings / profitability
2. Minimum mesh size of 140mm when fishing wrecks a must.
3. Crab claws, Spurdog and Porbeagle rules seen as a frustrating farce
4. The Regulatory burden associated with Cod recovery zones in Area VIIa
an VIId have discouraged vessels from fishing these areas. Similarly,
restrictions on use of 80mm West of 7 degrees W has resulted in a
complete cessation of fishing activities in this area.
Page 28 of 46
5. The 8% margin of tolerance when fishing in ICES Area VII e is practically
and workable and rarely complied with due to ‘ultra-mixed’ nature of
fishery.
6. Days at Sea not favoured as management tool by skippers in this sector
7. Trevose box – should be more tailored to reach defined objectives.
8. Overall feeling of too many ineffectual regulations
Chart of activity by CFPO gill netting vessels > 15m
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
v)
vi)
Fuel – not a big issue for this sector
Fish prices – better in 2008
Very low Hake prices – due to weak Spanish market – urgent
promotion (and perhaps MSC accreditation needed)
Price of leadline has increased dramatically – more emphasis on
reducing losses / recovering lost gear
Price of oil related products has increased e.g. mono-netting, rope
etc
Skippers felt that generally prices have been more consistent than
last year and public interest in previously underutilised species has
driven consumption levels and prices to a high level – giving strong
market demand.
Page 29 of 46
•
•
•
•
•
•
Pingers – many issues still surround about durability and effectiveness
Foreign effort – towed gear effort particularly French appears to have
decreased
Gear conflict – less of an issue c.f. 5 years ago
Lack of crew due to decreased viability
Skippers also felt that the FSP could be used as template in development
of future regulations.
Local MFA enforcement over-zealous and often personalised and
vindictive
Interview:
Conducted by Paul Trebilcock with Skipper James Chown (“Harvest Reaper” TT
177), September 2008; reviewed and validated by three others skippers.
Page 30 of 46
1.1
Under 15m Gill / Tangle netters
1.1.1 Fleet profile
No of vessels:
Avg. length:
Avg. gross tonnage
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
Gear:
8
None
11.3m
29 years
121.73kw
15.0
2 (reduced from 3 or 4)
120 (range 100 to 170)
Tangle nets 262-300mm mesh x 10md,
set half slack; gill nets mostly 130150mm x 30md set a third slack;
trammel nets inner wall 262mm with
900mm outers.
Occasional use of
handlines and long lines
Page 31 of 46
•
•
•
•
Use of Olex, Maxsea or Trax 3-d mapping is limited across boats in sector
(approx. 10%)
AIS – greatly improved safety at seas as has significantly reduced likelihood
efficiency whatsoever. Many vessels work within or close to traffic separation
schemes and report that AIS is invaluable as when called using the MMSI
number (name and number), ships are duty bound to respond.
Trammel nets - (for Monk and Turbot) are now being increasingly used in the
sector and appear to be at least 10-15% more efficient than traditional tangle
nets. However, due to heavier weight, cost and time taken to clear nets less
length of net can be used so overall effort (fish mortality) is balanced out.
Insulated bins - fish quality is very good across the sector as the majority
work trips of less than 24hrs. Soak times are generally short and all fish are
gutted, washed, iced and stored in insulated bins within 1 hr of capture.
Main target species: Pollack, Ling, Monk, Turbot, Brill and Ray
Wrecking (January to end of March)
i)
Seasonal changes
• Spring season appeared shorter with lower than expected catches
in January resulting in some boats using tangle nets only for Monk
ii)
•
•
iii)
•
•
•
Spatial changes.
Due to exponential increase in seal population around entire
Cornish Coast (up to 20nm offshore) fishing patterns and areas
(particularly for Pollack and Monk) have been severely affected with
some areas impossible to fish with static gear as seal damage rates
up to 90% make it un-viable.
Boat size and weather limits distance offshore worked in Spring.
Cod – definite increase in stock abundance over all of the Area VII
e-k. All sizes (year classes) seen in fishery except smaller size as
would expect due to selectivity of static gear vessels using mesh
size > 120mm
Pollack – overall feeling of slight drop in abundance particularly in
the fall of the year
Ling – broadly similar to Pollack, although definite increase South
of the Lizard
Page 32 of 46
iv)
•
•
Market prices generally increased and more consistent, with
quality ‘day old’ fish often rewarded with a price premium.
French market still leads for Pollack but significant increase in UK
demand and price continues due to marketing of sustainability
credentials
Tangle netting
i)
Seasonal changes
• Slightly earlier start to season reflecting lower Pollack catch rates
on inshore wrecks
ii)
•
Spatial changes
No changes as areas worked greatly restricted by towed gear
activity (trawlers, beamers and scallopers), which is mostly French.
•
•
•
•
•
Changes in age structure of population / stock availability*
Turbot – slight decrease although not outside historic fluctuations
Monk – no change
Rays - No change reported
Shellfish – less Spider crabs
Large mesh sizes select larger fish so skippers felt it was hard to
comment on presence of smaller year classes
iii)
iv)
•
•
Monk and Turbot prices slightly increased.
Ray prices consistent
1. Low Cod quota and high abundance on the grounds has affected ALL
static net fisheries with significant discards leading to changing fishing
patterns and reduced grossings / profitability, particularly of those boats
using only gill nets of mesh sizes 130-150mm
2. Trevose Box closure has led to some displacement in the Spring of the
year of boats from the North Coast to the South Coast.
3. Porbeagles rules lead to discarding and without CFPO swap discarding
would have been a much more serious issue
4. Tope rules reported as a ‘nonsense’. Occasional incidents of high level of
discarding can occur e.g. as with Spurdogs.
1. Fuel prices not critical to the viability of this sector
2. Weather is the limiting factor for this sector
Page 33 of 46
3. Opportunities for diversification exist for Sole VIIe and Cod VII b-k which
are available in abundance but impossible to target these due to low
quotas.
•
•
•
•
•
Seals – population reported to have increased x 10 in last 10yrs, reasons
for this are believed to be the activities of the Seal Sanctuary and eNGOs
which are rescuing young and weak seals and releasing back into the
wild. This is seen to be reducing natural mortality which would otherwise
control the population. Therefore, this is now an issue which needs urgent
management.
Gear conflict – is it still a big issue, especially off Lizard but International
liaison between POs has improved the situation.
Enforcement seen as fair but feeling that MFA should do more to help
industry rather than focus on pure enforcement.
The Marine Bill and other Marine Spatial Planning fora seen as biggest
threat / area of concern as industry feeling that English legislation should
have predisposition in favour of fishing – as in Scottish regulation.
eNGOs / Government do not recognise good practice and / or
improvements made by the industry in recent years, using slick PR
machines to paint an inaccurate and sensationalist picture aimed more at
fund-raising than addressing the real issues.
Interview:
Conducted by Paul Trebilcock with Skipper Andrew Pascoe (“Lamorna” SS 28),
March 2009; reviewed and validated by two others skippers.
Page 34 of 46
1.1
Under 10m fleet
1.1.1 Fleet profile
No of vessels:
Avg. length:
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
67
+ 2 netters; + 2 trawler; +1 scalloper
9.25
11 years
141kw
1.8
104
Page 35 of 46
• Most skippers felt that the use of Olex 3-d mapping across all under 10m
sectors was the biggest technological increase.
• Use of insulated ice bins to improve quality is widespread across the fleet.
• Gill-net technology stable – less nets being worked with a greater emphasis
being put on identifying ‘hot spots’ with 3-d mapping equipment.
• Trawlers mostly work standard box trawl with 80 or 100mm cod-ends.
• 1-2 trawlers now twin or triple rigging at certain time of year for Soles.
• 1 vessel works single 4m beam trawl
• All of the ring-netters use Sonar to locate and track shoals of fish
• 5 of the 18 handline vessels fishing for Pollack now use automated jigging
machines.
i)
•
•
•
•
•
ii)
•
•
•
•
iii)
•
•
Netters – 15 vessels
These vessels generally target different species through the year –
starting with Pollack /Ling (140mm) on wrecks and hard ground
from Jan to April, then tangle nets for Monkfish and Turbot
(220mm) from April to August; then Hake nets (120mm) or ‘ground
gear’ or Bass nets until Christmas.
A number of smaller boats under 8m, (8) specifically target Red
Mullet with 50mm mesh nets. A number also use Sole nets to
target Sole and Plaice with 120mm mesh
Abundance of Pollack and Ling reported to be stable
Significantly increased signs of Cod and Haddock
Monk and Turbot stable.
Trawlers – 12 vessels
These vessels target a typically ‘ultra-mixed’ fishery catching
between 20 and 40 species per trip (between 1 and 3 days).
Approx. 50% by value is non-TAC species
Most vessels fish with an 80mm cod-end as there is a significant
by-catch of squid which would be lost
In recent years this fleet has become increasingly mobile and a
number of vessels work out of Brixham or Plymouth during the
Winter months when targeting squid or cuttle.
Potters – 16 vessels
These vessels typically work with 2-3 crew, using between 600 and
1200 pots. Most vessels use all parlour pots and target Brown
Crab and Lobster.
Vessels on the North Cornish coast use more inkwell pots to catch
Spider Crabs from April - July
Page 36 of 46
iv)
•
•
•
v)
•
•
•
•
•
Ring-netters – 3 vessels
There are two vessels that are dedicated to the inshore Sardine
fishery all year round and these are joined by one of other vessel
for six months of the year.
Boats are generally put on a quota by the market
The fishery has progressed with a full MSC assessment.
Handliners
An increase in the 1st sale price for Pollack has attracted several
more vessels into the handline Pollack fishery.
The inshore mackerel fishery has been disappointing; this was due
to poor weather and volatile market.
Skippers in some areas have reported more smaller fish being
caught, which may indicate pressure on the stocks.
Small inshore Bass handliners have reported a good year with a
number of different year classes being present in the fishery.
A small number of inshore vessels fishing handlines with jigs have
also reported the best season on record for catches of Squid.
1. All skippers interviewed from this sector stressed that the Under 10m
sector has been hit very hard but the management of quotes in this sector.
2. Static gear vessels report pressure from French trawlers and local
scallopers limiting the areas where they can work.
3. Skippers report that they have moved between fisheries more frequently in
2007 due to the lack of quota for some species, particularly: Cod, Sole,
Monk and Pollack. This results in reduced profitability as more types of
gear need to be purchased.
4. Some skippers would like to re-visit the technical conservation regulation
annexes for static gear so that they could be on parity with trawlers in
order to catch Haddock and Whiting.
1. Skippers felt that generally prices have been higher than last year, but this
has not been translated into profits as increased fuel prices and quota
leasing costs have nullified the increase.
2. Despite increased quota leasing costs and rising fuel costs, skippers in all
sub-sectors remain positive.
• Concern about mis-management of under 10m quotas.
• Not enough data on under 10m fleet.
• Not enough quotas available to lease to top-up monthly allocation.
• Would like to see more money given to DFQC to operate a sensible quota
buying scheme.
Page 37 of 46
AFR evolution:
The AFRs produced in this report were seen as part of a longer term multi-annual
project, as it was felt that the comparative benefits would increase over time.
Throughout the AFR development and pilot process a number of suggested
further improvements have been made (and recorded) by both interviewed
skippers and other information users.
The list of suggested improvements is given below but is not exhaustive. It
outlines several areas for possible evolution of AFRs in future years, should they
be deemed as a useful addition to the assessment process.
•
Further integration and analysis of VMS data
as could be useful in demonstrating changes to spatial patterns over a
longer time series as well as providing evidence in relation to MCZ
planning
•
Inclusion of historic CPUE data
Detailed records for all species (i.e. TAC and non-TAC) are kept by
fishermen over a long time series and could provide supplementary
information to assist validation of back-casting models or fill data gaps if /
where necessary
•
Develop tools and methodology to allow ‘real-time’ recording
e.g. through protected website modelled on the ‘Twitter’ style blogging
approach or a more formalised standard reporting procedures
•
Inclusion of catch compositions % by metier
to highlight any changes in relative abundances in the catch over time or
changes in composition as a result of regulatory change
•
Examine better integration of Seafish economic survey data
to give clearer view of economic drivers in fishers behaviour
Page 38 of 46
Conclusions / Next steps:
The AFR project set-out to develop and pilot a means of capturing and reporting
information from fishers as a source of information which would be relevant and
useful to fisheries scientists and policy makers alike.
From the catchers perspective the project has been well received and
worthwhile; for them (and their representatives) it has provided a systematic way
of recording anecdotal information they often carry only in their heads. It has
also has helped prioritise and focus their thoughts in key areas.
The real test of course will be to ascertain the use of the information provided
within the reports to fisheries scientists and policy makers. If the AFRs are seen
as useful to key users then it is suggested that discussions are held on the
proposed next steps shown below:
a) Convene a meeting of the ‘AFR user group’ to review the AFRs
format and content to integrate some of the suggested
improvements shown above.
b) Prepare a detailed project proposal to secure a multi-annual
funding package
c) ‘Roll-out’ the AFR work to a wider range of fishermen’s
organisations through practical assistance and guidance
d) Possible integration of approach through the RAC network
e) Formalise a reporting procedure and timescale
Page 39 of 46
Annex I
Annual Fisheries Report : DRAFT GUIDANCE NOTES
Metier summary:
<< INSERT METIER>> fleet
<< INSERT PICTURE OF TYPICAL
VESSEL TYPE, LAYOUT IN METIER>>
1.1
1.2
•
Fleet profile
No of vessels:
Avg. length:
Avg. no of crew:
Avg. days at sea:
INSERT FIGURE FROM PO RECORDS
INSERT FIGURE FROM PO RECORDS
xx M
xx years
xxx kw
x.x
xxx day
Technological developments:
This section seeks to record common practice within the sector and to detail
changes, within the metier, over the previous year and can include anything
but for example to start with skippers should be asked about changes in:
a) Fishing gear – e.g. net design, net manufacturer, netting construction, no.
of nets, mesh sizes, twine type and thickness, doors, warp type and
length, no. and type of pots etc
b) Electronics – e.g. use of ARPA radar to track tows, 3-D mapping
software, Autotrawl systems, sonar etc
c) Deck equipment – e.g. winches, roller –system, self-shooting etc
d) Fish handling – e.g. slush ice machines, fish pumps, insulated boxes.
Page 40 of 46
e) Engine power / propulsion – e.g. possible trends in re-engining, use of
bio or heavy fuels, nozzles, towing speed, fuel flow meters etc.
1.3
Stock abundance – Patterns & Trends
•
This section seeks to detail the skipper’s recent experience of patterns /
trends of abundance of the key target species for the metier against the
background of the skipper’s knowledge and experience of the fishery over a
much longer time series.
•
Again the aim is to summarise the typical activities and catches of target
species expected by these vessels and to highlight notable recent patterns or
shifts in abundance. This need not be prescriptive but could include:
a)
b)
c)
d)
1.4
Seasonal changes – fish caught earlier or later.
Spatial changes – fish caught on different grounds.
Changes in age structure of population e.g. influx of small fish.
Market price changes – as this can often affect the targeting of fish.
Impact of management measures on fishing patterns / areas fished
•
This section is of particular interest to DEFRA / MFA as they try to understand
the affect of management measures on fishing patterns and therefore offers
an opportunity for skippers to constructively (if possible) explain the results of
recent management measures on their historic fishing patterns and possible
implications of measures which are known to be under consideration.
•
Again skippers should be given freedom to comment on a wide range of
measures within this section, but areas to be covered should include:
a)
b)
c)
d)
•
1.5
Quotas – effect of quota change on target and non-target species
Days – e.g. do boats fish closer to home, do longer/shorter trips etc
Catch composition rules – e.g. prawns vs fish etc.
Technical regs. – i.e. do these affect fishing patterns or discard rates
Where significant changes in the spatial distribution of fishing activity has
taken place, due to management measures or for that matter nonmanagement measures, for example due to fuel price, every effort should be
taken to demonstrate this graphically by drawing out on a chart.
Economic trends
Page 41 of 46
•
This section seeks to detail the economic performance of vessels within the
metier and key the factors that have led to it changes in both turnover and
profitability in recent years.
•
As with other sections, skippers should be given a free hand, but areas to be
covered should include:
a) Overall catches – increases or decreased landings of target and nontarget species.
b) Fish prices – short-term and long-term changes in prices and any
changes in landing patterns that have had a bearing on this.
c) Quota costs – lease and / or purchase
d) Fuel costs – particularly important for towed gear.
vi)
Management costs – e.g. costs of compliance and meeting
regulations.
1.6
Sentinel skippers comments / views / issues
•
This section provides an opportunity to summarise and underline key
issues and also to highlight concerns which may not have been covered
elsewhere during the interview with the skipper.
Page 42 of 46
Annex II
CFPO Vessel list
RSS No
PLN
Name
A14943
BM298
GEORGE JOHANNES
A15142
PZ999
JANNIE EN KLAAS
A16697
PZ66
SAPPHIRE
A18835
PZ1053
ST GEORGES
A18877
PZ512
CORNISHMAN
A21569
PZ1001
A21587
PZ78
RESURGAM
JAMES
STEVENSON
A21612
PZ123
SARA-SHAUN
A21621
PZ137
A21655
PZ191
TWILIGHT III
WILLIAM
SAMPSON
STEVENSON
A21657
PZ193
TREVESSA 1V
A21659
PZ195
WILLIAM STEVENSON
A21661
PZ197
ANNELIESE
A21662
PZ198
AALTJE ADRIAANTJE
A21663
PZ199
ALGRIE
A21710
PZ293
ELIZABETH CAROLINE
A21711
PZ295
A21802
PZ476
MARIE CLAIRE
LISA
JACQUELINE
STEVENSON
A21833
PZ532
BILLY ROWNEY
A21839
PZ542
FILADELFIA
C16630
BM127
HARVESTER
A14928
BM265
JOANNA C
A19955
PZ10
NELLIE
C16184
PZ100
ELIZABETH N
A10166
AH32
AJAX
R.H.
PO
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
Page 43 of 46
Length
Admin Port
26.2
NEWLYN
B+24
26.2
NEWLYN
B+24
25.0
NEWLYN
B+24
34.8
NEWLYN
B+24
32.8
NEWLYN
B+24
26.2
NEWLYN
B+24
29.8
NEWLYN
B+24
25.3
NEWLYN
B+24
29.1
NEWLYN
B+24
28.2
NEWLYN
B+24
26.2
NEWLYN
B+24
26.0
NEWLYN
B+24
26.2
NEWLYN
B+24
28.6
NEWLYN
B+24
26.2
NEWLYN
B+24
29.9
NEWLYN
B+24
29.9
NEWLYN
B+24
24.2
NEWLYN
B+24
31.9
NEWLYN
B+24
26.3
NEWLYN
B+24
15.0
BRIXHAM
B-24
13.9
HASTINGS
B-24
22.2
NEWLYN
B-24
22.8
NEWLYN
17.0
NEWLYN
B-24
GN
+15
A10262
BA45
CHARISMA
A12245
WY379
CAROL H
A16952
FH121
BRITANNIA V
A21771
PZ425
CKS
A21902
PZ643
GARY M
A21904
PZ645
BEN MY CHREE
B11288
PZ41
OCEAN SPRAY
C17466
PZ1196
SILVER DAWN
C17832
PW1
BERLEWEN
A16924
FH76
GALWAD-Y-MOR
A17231
FY111
RED VIXEN
A17243
FY126
A21379
FH5
HEATHER ANNE
REGINA
MARIS
HELFORD
A22385
SC11
VICTORY OF HELFORD
A23125
SS134
HUERS
A24243
WY335
SARDIA LOUISE
A24806
SS28
LAMORNA
A16999
FH198
HARVESTER
A17409
FY527
BLEJAN EYHRE
A19153
M78
COMPASS ROSE II
A21019
PH58
A21386
PW64
BRUNO OF SUTTON
TREVOSE
OF
NEWQUAY
A21410
PW95
ELINOR ROGET
A21414
PW100
OUR BELLE ANN
A21542
PZ6
GIRL PAMELA
A21558
PZ30
LOYAL PARTNER
A23100
SS88
TEGEN MOR
B13497
C17554
TH7
PW364
AMADEUS
ORCADES II
OF
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
Page 44 of 46
16.6
NEWLYN
18.7
PLYMOUTH
15.2
NEWLYN
16.7
NEWLYN
11.9
NEWLYN
18.0
NEWLYN
14.1
NEWLYN
17.9
NEWLYN
15.0
NEWLYN
11.9
NEWLYN
10.4
NEWLYN
11.0
NEWLYN
12.4
NEWLYN
10.7
NEWLYN
11.0
NEWLYN
10.9
NEWLYN
12.0
NEWLYN
GN
+15
GN
+15
GN
+15
GN
+15
GN
+15
GN
+15
GN
+15
GN
+15
GN
+15
N
15
N
15
N
15
N
15
N
15
N
15
N
15
N
15
11.3
SCARBOROUGH
P
12.0
SCARBOROUGH
P
11.0
PLYMOUTH
P
15.0
PLYMOUTH
P
12.4
BRIXHAM
P
10.1
NEWLYN
P
11.7
NEWLYN
P
11.5
NEWLYN
P
10.7
NEWLYN
P
10.8
NEWLYN
P
24.5
BRIXHAM
NEWLYN
P
P
-
C18225
FH723
HARVESTER II
C19265
PZ81
LYONESSE
A12086
BM367
BON ACCORD
A15957
CO365
CELTIC PRIDE
A17005
FH206
GOLDEN FLEECE
A20887
PE820
AVON VALLEY
A23327
PD235
CALISHA
B11206
FH12
MOREL MARGH
C18609
FH729
JACQUELINE ANNE
C18947
FH207
GOLDEN FLEECE II
C18951
FY91
MANX RANGER
A21726
PZ331
ANTHONY STEVENSON
B10654
SS118
CRYSTAL SEA
A13933
BH9
VALHALLA
A11511
TT177
HARVEST REAPER
A14895
BM211
SUE ELLEN
A17221
FY97
GALATEA
A17456
FY614
CAZADORA
A21443
PW150
JEAN HOWARD
A21559
PZ32
CATHRYN
A22069
R159
MARET
A22478
SD80
GIRL JANE
A23194
SS284
JOHN WESLEY
B10024
PZ329
HARVEST REAPER
B10192
UL2
CELESTIAL DAWN
B10572
FY24
ELLA
B10669
BM190
MARINA
B11272
NN137
JOANNA
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
Page 45 of 46
12.2
11.8
NEWLYN
P
12.0
NEWLYN
R
14.9
PLYMOUTH
S
12.0
BRIXHAM
S
13.9
NEWLYN
S
12.3
NEWLYN
S
26.2
BUCKIE
S
10.9
NEWLYN
S
10.9
NEWLYN
S
15.0
NEWLYN
S
14.0
NEWLYN
23.3
NEWLYN
20.9
NEWLYN
18.2
BRIXHAM
S
T
+15
T
+15
T
+15
17.0
T -15
11.9
NEWLYN
MILFORD
HAVEN
12.0
PLYMOUTH
T -15
10.8
PLYMOUTH
T -15
11.2
PLYMOUTH
T -15
12.2
NEWLYN
T -15
12.2
PLYMOUTH
T -15
11.6
PLYMOUTH
T -15
12.0
PLYMOUTH
T -15
11.9
NEWLYN
T -15
11.4
NEWLYN
T -15
11.3
PLYMOUTH
T -15
11.4
BRIXHAM
T -15
14.0
PLYMOUTH
T -15
T -15
B11377
LA8
HEATHER D
B11798
RO23
AMANDA
B11885
FY602
NATALIE
B12021
PZ110
IMOGEN
B14348
P29
EQUINOX
B14859
PZ87
KATIE CLAIRE
C16014
HL257
ACHIEVE
C17175
E444
GIRL DEBRA
C17338
NN722
GUIDING LIGHT II
C17512
BD287
OUR JOSIE GRACE
C17859
SU514
HOPE
C17970
FY848
DEFIANT
C18270
BD1
CERULEAN
C18597
BD277
C18729
FY83
OUR OLIVIA BELLE
ELISABETH
VERONIQUE
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
CORNISH
FPO LTD
Page 46 of 46
11.6
MILFORD
HAVEN
T -15
11.5
PLYMOUTH
T -15
11.4
PLYMOUTH
T -15
10.4
NEWLYN
T -15
11.9
BRIXHAM
T -15
13.5
NEWLYN
T -15
NEWLYN
T -15
15.0
BRIXHAM
T -15
13.4
PLYMOUTH
T -15
15.0
PLYMOUTH
T -15
12.0
POOLE
T -15
14.0
POOLE
T -15
15.0
PLYMOUTH
T -15
15.0
PLYMOUTH
T -15
15.0
NEWLYN
T -15
9.9

NFFO Annual Fisheries Reports

Transcription

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