A shore-based randomised sampling design used in the artisanal longline fishery for Dissostichus eleginoides off central Chile

A shore-based design used to sample sports fisheries was adapted to sample otoliths from targetted individuals caught in the artisanal longline fishery for Dissostichus eleginoides off northern Chile. Observers were stationed dockside and at a processing factory. A 14-day sampling frame was used, divided into primary sampling units of days/area and secondary sampling units of three- and eight-hour periods. Compared to shipboard sampling, the design allowed more flexibility in allocation of observer effort and cut time wasted during poor fishing or travel to fishing grounds. However, data on catch date, location, and depth cannot be independently verified, nor data taken on by-catch or incidental mortality of higher predators.