Relative Survival of Reef Fishes Released within a Recreational Hook-and-Line Fishery in the Gulf of Mexico

Studies that measure survival of discards under true conditions within a fishery are needed. In this study, fishery observers on cooperating for-hire vessels in the Gulf of Mexico rapidly assessed injuries and impairments as reef fishes were caught by recreational anglers fishing with hook-and-line gear. Discards were marked with conventional tags prior to release. The objectives were to measure relative survival of fish released in variable conditions within the fishery and estimate discard mortality. The study took place over a large geographic area throughout the year over multiple years. A proportional hazards model was constructed to control for variable recapture reporting rates. Gag, Mycteroperca microlepis, red grouper, Epinephelus morio, and red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus, were significantly less likely to be recaptured when they were vented or exhibited impairments, including difficulty submerging and hook or gill injuries. Estimated mortality increased significantly with depth; however, overall mortality was reduced due to the shallow depths fished.