Catch Reporting

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed by NOAA Fisheries, this mobile application facilitates regulatory compliance for fishermen targeting Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS). The interface enables the capture of trip details, landings, and releases for species including tuna, swordfish, and billfish. Data is stored locally on the device, allowing for offline entry during fishing trips. The system then transmits the completed report to the HMS management database once an internet connection is reestablished, ensuring timely and accurate data submission for fisheries management.

Evidence & Research Context

• The application functions as an approved electronic reporting tool within the regulatory framework detailed by NOAA Fisheries for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) management.
• Its design supports compliance with time-sensitive reporting mandates, such as the 24-hour submission requirement for recreational landings of specified species.
• The system is specified for use by multiple stakeholder groups, including recreational anglers and commercial permit holders, to report landings, releases, and dead discards.
• Data collected via the app contributes directly to management databases used for monitoring populations and ensuring compliance with national and international fishery agreements.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is intended for use by recreational and commercial fishermen required to report catches of Atlantic Highly Migratory Species. Its primary scope is to serve as a data submission tool for regulatory compliance. The app is not a comprehensive fishing log, navigational aid, or species identification guide, and its use is limited to mandated reporting.