Whelk Stock Assessment – 2021

Descriptions

To conduct a fishery-independent whelk stock assessment, along with additional research that will contribute to survey findings, looking at environmental influences such as tidal flows, soak times and depth of pots. This work will contribute to the ongoing annual stock assessments envisioned for the Welsh whelk stocks. Over time season patterns are hoped to be identified along with population sub-structures in Welsh waters. Surveys will be carried out in multiple keys areas, targeted by the Welsh whelk fishing fleet.Key requirements, amongst others, will be:-A survey undertaken at multiple locations during a single September or early October neap tide, with soak times for pots ideally being 48 hours, but no more than 72 hours, at key whelk fishing areas in Welsh waters.-A mark-recapture survey to calculate abundances to compare with pot Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE).NOTE: To register your interest in this notice and obtain any additional information please visit the Sell2Wales Web Site at https://www.sell2wales.gov.wales/Search/Search_Switch.aspx?ID=112200.