West Coast Groundfish Observer Data
June 29, 2020
Summaries of bycatch estimates, groundfish mortality, and coverage levels collected aboard observed U.S. West Coast fishing vessels
Observers are deployed across many sectors (fleets) that target or take groundfish species as bycatch. Using these data, the program provides summaries and estimates of fisheries data including: observer coverage levels, areas fished, and amount and type of groundfish species retained and discarded. These data are also used to estimate groundfish mortality and interactions with protected species (e.g. marine mammal takes). Estimates are used for both fishery management and scientific purposes. Data are summarized, estimated and reported within three broader categories frequently used by management and industry: sector, fish species management, and protected species.