Cooperative Trap Survey for Nearshore Groundfish

This pilot study is designed to evaluate a fishery-independent, cooperative sampling methodology for nearshore groundfish species, with an emphasis on species in the genus Sebastes (rockfishes). Trawl surveys off the U.S. West Coast currently do not sample waters shallower than 55 meters, and avoid high-relief habitat. In 2012, the pilot study focused on sampling procedures for untrawlable habitat in depths between 10 and 60 meters. Catch of finfish by cruise, set, and trap is processed at the lab. Fish are identified to species, measured (fork length), and sexed. Otoliths of all rockfish species and a subset of non-rockfish species were retained for age and growth studies. Processing of samples is ongoing, tissue samples will be collected to assist with ongoing genetic studies at our facility.