Breaking the cycle of small-scale fisheries data collection
Despite their prevalence in European and Atlantic waters, knowledge of best-practice methods of data collection in SSF is currently lacking. This has led to the collection of data that is often incomplete or of poor quality, and that underplays the fisheries’ wider importance. Furthermore, the diversity of gear, target species, seasonality, and geographical range seen across SSF fleets means that methodologies for monitoring typically used in large-scale fisheries often require specific adaptations to render them fit for purpose. CABFishMan has produced a comprehensive overview of the various methodologies, census, and sampling approaches available for use in SSF, with an evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages of each, and recommending best practice. Additionally, the overview draws upon case studies from European countries (Spain, France and the United Kingdom, among others) to explore how innovative technology can be used for data collection in SSF, for example by improving knowledge of spatial mapping to resolve issues surrounding competing use for marine space or enabling self-sampling programs. Such approaches are rooted in the ongoing collaboration between scientists and fishers and, as such, represent a powerful resource in advancing our knowledge of SSF.