CONCLUSIONS

The major findings to date of this ongoing research project are as follows:: There was an increased catch and catch per unit effort (CPUE) from 1959 until about 1970; A steady overall catch and catch per unit effort is observed for the HIBT since about 1970; The HIBT data on catch and CPUE follow the trends for the Hawaiian recreational fishery as assessed angler surveys over the whole year; The HIBT data do not reflect the Pacific Ocean trends toward reduced catch and CPUE for longline vessels; Average catches and weights of Pacific blue marlin have changed little over the years of the HIBT

We look forward to maintaining this monitoring role for the HIBT over the next 36 years.