Research Document 1998/111

An Analysis of the Results of the License Stub Return System in the Newfoundland Region, 1994-97

By O'Connell, M. F. N.M., Cochrane, E.G.M. Ash, and C.C. Mullins

Abstract

The license stub return system was implemented in the Newfoundland Region in 1994 as an alternative method of collecting Atlantic salmon recreational fishery catch and effort data. Information obtained from the stub system was compared to that provided by Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) River Guardians during 1994-97 (for Labrador only in 1997). Comparisons were also made with results obtained from creel surveys conducted in Middle Brook, Bonavista Bay (SFA 5) and Pinware River, Labrador (SFA 14B) in 1997. Reported catch and effort data were extrapolated to the entire angling population using a modification of the bias correction technique developed for rivers in Nova Scotia. Effort expenditure (rod days) derived from the stub overall was lower than that obtained from creel surveys and from DFO River Guardians. A cursory examination of angler return cards revealed that many anglers only reported effort associated with catch. Telephone calls to a sample of 31 of these anglers showed that 58% had fished for varying periods throughout the season with no catch, but did not report this as expended effort. Stub estimates of numbers of small and large salmon released were substantially higher than creel and River Guardian estimates. Stub estimates of numbers of small salmon kept were also higher than derived from both creel surveys, but the differences between the two methods were less than observed for released fish. Differences between stub and River Guardian estimates for kept fish were also less than for released fish; some rivers and SFAs were higher relative to the stub and some were lower.

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