Effect of trap design and soak time on catches of the British Columbia prawn ( Pandalus platyceros)

Abstract

In 1985 three experiments, concluding a series began in 1977, were completed for the evaluation of variables considered important for defining effective trap fishing effort for the prawn, Pandalus platyceros, in British Columbia. The effect on catch of trap volume, number of tunnels, tunnel length and tunnel type were examined for different soak times. Trap volume and tunnel type significantly influenced catches, whereas the number of tunnels and tunnel length did not. Soak time alone had a significant influence in the trap volume experiment or interaction in the trap volume or tunnel length experiments. These variables are discussed in relation to developing a standardization algorithm permitting improved interpretation of catch and effort data for prawn stock assessment.