The Norwegian Reference fleet-cooperation between fishing crews and scientists for multiple objectives

<p>No abstracts are to be cited without prior reference to the author.</p>In Norway, port sampling of landings, sea sampling by the coastguard and by inspectors from the Directorate of Fisheries are used for collecting biological samples from commercial catches for research and assessment purpose. In order to obtain better and continuous samples from the fishing fleet, knowledge about fleet behaviour and technical developments influencing efficiency and effort, 14 high seas- and 18 coastal fishing vessels (the Reference fleet) are contracted, some of them since 2001. The vessels may be equipped with electronic length measuring board, electronic scales and PC with necessary software including satellite communication. Crewmembers are trained to conduct self-sampling. Biological samples (length, otoliths, genetic samples, stomachs etc) and logbook data are delivered according to contract, which secure a proper statistical coverage for a defined number of species in time and area. A minor extra catch quota mainly finances the program.