Pelagic fish and shark survivability in recreational fisheries - Biological Sciences PhD Studentship (NERC GW4+ DTP funded)

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In the UK, recreational fishing effort expended by an estimated 884,000 fishers in England [in 2012] represented more than 4 million fishing days, and £831 million direct spend. A portion of this effort is directed towards the catch-and-release recreational fishing industry. For some large pelagic fish and shark species, prohibitions on commercial landing exist due to precipitous declines (e.g. porbeagle). By comparison, recreational catch-and-release fisheries are largely unregulated (although stakeholder groups can enact rules of engagement upon their membership), and the ecological consequences of these activities for ecosystems are poorly understood. Knowledge on the post-release behaviour and survivorship of large pelagic fish caught in recreational catch-and-release fisheries will therefore be i) valuable to enhance conservation measures through the refinement of good practice techniques for handling and releasing, and ii) aid delivery of key ecosystem services provided by these animals (by ensuring these animals have the best chance of survival). The current lack of understanding on survivability is particularly challenging as recreational catch-and-release fisheries are often promoted as a sustainable activity, yet in UK waters the effects of this practice is largely unknown. Existing literature suggests variability in fishing and handling practices along with the host environment (e.g. water temperature) can significantly influence post-release survivorship. However, to what degree each of these factors contribute to survivability and which aspects of the catch-release process have the greatest opportunity to deliver evidence-based improvements in survivorship requires scientific investigation.