Habitat Observed from the Decks of Fishing Vessels

From the decks of their boats, commercial fishers observe target species, habitat, prey, and changes through time to the environment. Their observations, perceptions, and impressions are colored by their values, culture, and interactions with other fishers. Fishers who are at sea every day hold a vast amount of knowledge; however, their information is considered anecdotal. Motivated by the need to describe essential fish habitat using all available data and information, we surveyed fishers to identify records and other documentation of their observations. Through surveys and focus group meetings, we collected information on fishing gear, seasons and years of fishing experience, types of fish caught, and general observations. We also asked fishers if they kept records of their findings and if they would share that information with fisheries managers. Most fishers indicated they kept some type of record, and 68% were willing to share that information with managers. Another 30% indicated they might do so, while 5% said they would not, and 8% did not respond. At focus group meetings fishers used National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration maps to delineate areas fished for target species, characterized bottom habitat when known, and often indicated seasons fished in the various areas. Fishers' perceptions of changes varied, but most identified changes in habitat as affecting fish abundance. Several fishers indicated that changes in their gear types and target species were related to fish availability. Nearly all fishers agreed that habitat is important to fish productivity.