Vessel dynamics of the Gulf of St. Lawrence snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) fishery: examining spatial associations and fishing success

Abstract

Fleet dynamics are an important, but understudied aspect of fisheries management. The fleet dynamics of the Gulf of St. Lawrence snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) fishery were examined using two approaches: 1) examining spatial associations based on homeport location, vessel knowledge of the fishery and their impacts on catch rates, and 2) applying an agent-based model to the fishery to examine impact of having pre-season survey information. There were overall higher levels of clustering of vessels who had extensive knowledge of the fishery (traditionals) and the non-traditionals were fishing in similar areas as traditional vessels. Lower levels of clustering were observed among the non-traditional vessels. There were higher total landings with pre-season survey information. Examining how vessels associate gives insight into fleet dynamics, which may be important in management decisions.