Different fishing gears typically target different size classes of fish due to their distinct selectivity patterns. For example, trawl nets may capture a wide range of sizes, including juveniles, while longlines tend to catch larger individuals. These differences in selectivity could result in varying fishing mortality rates for each gear type.
The LCCC method is traditionally used to estimate total mortality (Z) from length-frequency data by pooling the data across time and species, using a set of growth parameters. However, my question is whether it's valid to apply this method separately to the length-frequency data of each gear type in order to estimate gear-specific total and fishing mortalities. This approach could help identify which gear is contributing most to fishing mortality.
Applying the Length-Converted Catch Curve (LCCC) method separately for each gear type in multi-gear fisheries is valid and advisable when estimating gear-specific fishing mortality (F), as different gears often exhibit distinct selectivity patterns that influence the size composition of their catches. Pooling data from multiple gear types can obscure these differences, violating key assumptions of the LCCC method, such as consistent selectivity and stable length structure. By analyzing each gear independently, more accurate estimates of fishing mortality can be derived, reflecting the true impact of each gear on the stock. This approach supports more effective management measures tailored to regulate specific gear types based on their relative fishing pressure.
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