Skipjack pole-and-line operations in east Indonesia: A comparative analysis of catch performance

Abstract

There is a wide geographical spread of skipjack pole-and-line fishing bases in east Indonesia. The article identifies and analyses the relative importance of several interactive factors on pole-and-line vessel catch performance, including the effects of the vessel (eg its size, horse power and age), baitfish (its availability and abundance), the crew (number and skill), season, weather, use of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), geographical location of the fishing ground, and ‘fleet congestion’. The importance of FADs in improving catch performance is particularly highlighted. Partly from this comparative analysis, it is postulated that the resident stock in this area is supplemented by large seasonal migrations of skipjack from the western tropical Pacific stock. As the bulk of this migration passes through the waters north of Irian Jaya, this region must offer some of the best fishing opportunities, and hence will have the highest priority for the future development of skipjack pole-and-line and purse seine bases in Indonesia.