Seabird interaction rates in the Hawaii‐based shallow and deep‐set longline fisheries by vessel size as estimated from observer data (2004–2013)

This report provides observed seabird interactions and interaction rates in the Hawaii-based longline fisheries from 2004 to 2013 summarized by calendar year of operation (longline haulback). Seabird regulations initially went into effect in June 2001. Year 2004 was chosen as a start of the analysis as the shallow-set fishery re-opened. Statistics are disaggregated by longline fishery (shallow and deep-set), vessel size (<24 m and >=24 m) and latitude (<23°N and >=23°N). The analysis addresses the SC9 recommendation (para 81(a)), requesting for a comparison of large- and small-vessel interaction rates in order to address the current lack of mitigation by small vessels. The analysis is beneficial in describing interaction rates by fishery, latitude and vessel size.