The CFRF is currently soliciting applications from fishermen interested in joining the Black Sea Bass Research Fleet. Priority will be given to applicants that operate year-round and interact with black sea bass during the winter months. Fishermen that operate further south towards the Mid-Atlantic Bight are also encouraged to apply. Monthly Research Fleet responsibilities include sampling 150 black sea bass (size/sex) at sea using the On Deck Data app and collecting 50 black sea bass for diet and age/growth analysis at RI DEM
To apply, fill out an application (available HERE) and submit it to CFRF either via email, fax, or mail. The deadline for applications is Friday, November 16, 2018.
The CFRF and RI DEM launched the Black Sea Bass Research Fleet in December 2016. The Black Sea Bass Research Fleet currently employs nine Rhode Island commercial and recreational fishermen, from a variety of gear types, to collect biological and fishery data on black sea bass throughout the year. Fishermen collect data during routine fishing practices using the On Deck Data app. Data includes fishing effort metrics and size and sex of individual black sea bass. Ultimately, the data will be used to create catch and discard characterizations of the black sea bass fishery to help reduce uncertainty within the stock assessment. For more information about the project and Research Fleet Member responsibilities CLICK HERE.
If you have questions, please contact Thomas Heimann at theimann@cfrfoundation.org or 401-515-4892.
