Step 2 – Define and quantify the resource

Defining and quantifying the available resource provides the biological basis for the catch share program. By carefully completing this Step, you will ensure that you included sources of significant mortality and established an effective, science-based catch limit.

2.1 Which species will be included?

Catch share programs can be either single-species or multi-species, accommodating any number of targeted, non-targeted or bycatch species. Worldwide, there are more single-species programs than multi-species programs. However, there are far more species under multi-species catch share programs than in single-species programs. Species that are commonly caught together in should be considered for inclusion in the catch share program.

2.2 Which stocks will be included?

Most fisheries encounter multiple, biologically-distinct fish stocks. Many catch share fisheries distinguish between different stocks and successfully account for this by establishing stock-specific catch limits and quota allocations. This provides managers with a greater ability to ensure sustainability of each stock.

2.3 What will the spatial range be, and will there be different zones?

The spatial range of a catch share can also be customized and is largely related to species and stock boundaries. Existing political or socio-cultural boundaries may also be important in defining managed areas. While creating different catch share areas may help achieve specific biological or social goals, multiple zones will also increase complexity making it more challenging for fishing businesses, monitoring and administration.

2.4 What will the allowable catch limit be for each species, stock and zone?

Setting the appropriate catch limit is a vital component of any fishery’s management plan and there should be separate catch limits and shares for each species, stock and zone in the catch share program. The catch limit should account for all sources of fishing mortality and should prevent overfishing. If the stock is already overfished, the catch limit should be set at a level that will rebuild the stock.