Large-mesh Drift Gillnet Observer

This data set contains catch, effort, bycatch, and biological data collected by NMFS observers aboard California-based drift gillnet vessels fishing in the California Bight. Gillnet vessels use two gear configurations in this area, set gillnets and drift gillnets. Gillnet vessels are based in ports throughout Southern California. The main species caught by drift gillnets are swordfish and mako and thresher sharks. Set gillnets usually target halibut or white sea bass.

NMFS observers collect catch and effort data mainly to monitoring marine mammal interactions and mortality as required under the Marine mammals Protection Act. Size data are collected ancillary to their marine mammal observations. Data gathered from these fisheries are used in assessments and analyses of the status of swordfish and shark stocks. The data are confidential and can only be presented in summarized form to the public. However NMFS/SWFSC researchers with appropriate clearance can access the more detailed data.

Data are stored in MS Access tables

Inside the U.S. EEZ. Fishing areas are controlled through regulated seasons and area closures

NMFS personnel need a signed non-disclosure agreement statement to access the detailed data. There are no constraints on access to summarized data.