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Abstract:
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Several Gulf States have initiated programs encouraging anglers to voluntarily report their catch using electronic devices. When coupled with a subsequent intercept operation using a probability sample for selection of time and area, statistically defensible estimates of catch can be developed using capture recapture methodology. This paper will discuss the measurement error in the angler catch reports and their effect on the estimates of total catch. We will examine the change over time in magnitude of measurement error, as well as its structure; i.e., how the errors on species are related, and how this affects decisions about sample size requirements. Finally, we will present current data from these programs and examine the anglers who have reported for more than one season, in order to see if the measurement errors in catch reports decrease over time. This will give insight into the potential of such programs and can inform statistical estimation procedures.
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