Evaluation of the čibu·d, traditional halibut hook of the Makah Tribe, for reducing catch of non-target species in recreational Pacific halibut fisheries

Abstract

On the US west coast, the incidental mortality of non-target fish species in the recreational fishery for Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis; hereafter halibut) is a management concern. One potential approach to reducing non-target fish mortality is to use fishing hooks that more effectively target halibut. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of using the čibu·d, a halibut hook traditionally used by the Makah Tribe, for recreational halibut fishing. The Makah Tribe ethnographic record indicates that the čibu·d was selective for moderately sized halibut with little or no catch of other species. We tested the fishing performance of the čibu·d as compared to paired circle hooks (size 8/0) commonly used for recreational fishing using a charter-boat and volunteer anglers. Catch rates of halibut and non-target species, relative (target to non-target) catch ratios, and size selectivity of halibut caught by the two types of hooks were evaluated. Interviews with anglers were also conducted to assess angler opinions on use of the čibu·d. Catch rates of both halibut and non-target species were significantly less for the čibu·d than for circle hooks. Although catch rates were lower for čibu·d, they were 7.4 times more likely to catch a halibut than a non-target species compared to circle hooks. The catch ratio result, along with the positive response of anglers to using the čibu·d, indicate the čibu·d is a feasible hook type alternative for reducing catch of non-target fish species during recreational halibut fisheries particularly in areas where catch of non-target species is a conservation concern.