BBSRI: Port Moller Sonar Modification 2011

Improvements/modifications to the sonar systems were performed by an acoustics subcontractor (SciFish). BBSRI worked with a sonar expert (Aquacoustics, Inc.) to develop the required hardware and software modifications, and provided QA/QC on all design decisions. BBSRI was involved in the testing/calibration phase of the project to assure that the modifications performed are adequate to overcome the challenges encountered in 2010. This work involved a re-configuration of the PCB and modifications to the software that operates these autonomous, bottom-founded sonar systems. The work was conducted during the spring of 2011 at the SciFish facilities. Once improvements were made, the testing and calibration were done in Seward, Alaska, in order to mimic the environment where the sonars will operate (bottom founded in ~70 m of ocean).

This project will improve the accuracy and precision of the PMTF daily index and the stock and age composition estimates derived from the test fishery. PMTF provides support to managers to prosecute a sustainable fishery, processors to make in-season adjustments in processing capacity and tendering fleets, and fishermen to choose districts in which to fish. The information from this study will be used to improve the forecasting accuracy of the total run and district specific daily catches and escapement about one week in advance of the salmon arriving at Bristol Bay fishing districts.