Data Reporting
The collection of fisheries data is an important instrument of fisheries management and is used primarily to analyse and assess stock status of individual species. Catch and effort data collect from our vessels is sent to the relevant regional fisheries management organizations to assess and monitor stock harvesting, utilization and management.
Monthly catch and effort data in all its formats is one of the major tools used by fisheries managers and researchers to obtain pertinent information on a vessel’s activities. Data received through logbooks, reporting forms, e-logs etc., is used not only to determine vessel activities but to access, evaluate and identify fishing trends and determine whether management changes are necessary.
The logbook provides for the recording of information on the location, time, gear, and method of fishing, as well as the catch of each operation. Completed logbooks are returned to the BHSFU where the information is entered into a central database for further evaluation.
Belize’s main data collection programs include the submission of monthly catch reports that are submitted on the relevant forms indicated below:
- Fishing Log and Fishing Vessel Report for Long Line Vessels for Tuan, Tuna Like Species and Sharks
- Fishing Log and Fishing Vessel Voyage Report for Purse Seine Vessel for Tuna and Tuna Like Species.
- Catch and Voyage Report on Non-Tuna Vessels
- Pre-transshipment Declaration Form
- Manual Logbooks – These are given to the client at the time of issue of a HSFL or the beginning of each year. These books are to be completed by the master at sea and the completed log is to be returned to the BHSFU at the end of each year.
- Electronic Logbook – the electronic catch reporting software is integrated into the vessel monitoring system to be utilized by the vessel master for the submission of catch data.
