Fishermen urge inclusion in stock assessment processes for better fishery management

The Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) meeting on June 13, 2025, highlighted a critical need for improved collaboration between fishermen and stock assessors to enhance the accuracy of fish stock assessments. Participants expressed concerns about the disconnect between scientific assessments and the practical knowledge of fishermen, emphasizing the importance of integrating local expertise into the management process.

During the discussions, Sarah Niani, a representative from the fishing community, articulated frustrations regarding the perceived barriers that prevent meaningful input from fishermen in stock assessments. She noted that while fishermen are often encouraged to participate in assessment meetings, their contributions are frequently dismissed as anecdotal rather than being recognized as valuable expert insights. This disconnect was underscored by a recent interaction where a stock assessor questioned the validity of fishermen as experts, prompting Niani to advocate for a more inclusive approach.

Niani proposed several actionable ideas to bridge this gap, including restructuring how public comments are handled during stock assessment panels. She suggested that allowing for a dialogue between stock assessors and fishermen could provide essential context that would ground truth the assessment outcomes. Additionally, she recommended implementing regular webinars to facilitate real-time discussions about stock assessments, thereby enabling fishermen to share their observations and experiences directly with scientists.

The meeting also addressed the need for better data collection methods. Niani highlighted the potential for fishermen to assist in gathering data that could fill existing gaps in stock assessments, particularly as budget constraints challenge traditional data collection methods. This collaborative approach could enhance the reliability of assessments and ensure that they reflect current conditions in the fisheries.

Council members acknowledged the importance of fostering a two-way communication channel between scientists and the fishing industry. They recognized that incorporating fishermen's insights could lead to more accurate assessments and better management decisions, especially in light of ongoing challenges facing fish stocks.

As the PFMC continues its discussions, the emphasis on collaboration and communication between fishermen and scientists is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping future fishery management strategies. The council's commitment to addressing these concerns signals a proactive approach to ensuring sustainable fisheries that benefit both the environment and the fishing community.