The CFRF, in partnership with RI DEM, is launching a Black Sea Bass Research Fleet in the Southern New England and Mid-Atlantic Bight region. The project will employ Rhode Island commercial and recreational fishermen, utilizing a variety of gear types, to collect biological and fishery data on black sea bass throughout the year. Data will be collected and transmitted using a specifically designed black sea bass sampling app on Android tablets. Research Fleet participants will sample black sea bass within their typical fishing grounds throughout the year. For more information about the project CLICK HERE.
CFRF is currently soliciting fishermen to participate in the Black Sea Bass Research Fleet. Applicants must hail out of Rhode Island and regularly interact with black sea bass throughout the fishing year (either as targeted catch or bycatch). Eight fishermen will be selected to participate in the Research Fleet, based upon areas and times of year fished, frequency of interaction with black sea bass, experience with cooperative research, and gear type. For more information about participant responsibilities and sampling protocols CLICK HERE.
If you would like to apply to participate in the Black Sea Bass Research Fleet, please fill out the application and submit to CFRF either via email, fax or mail to CFRF. To download the vessel application, CLICK HERE.
The deadline for applications is Friday, September 23, 2016.