Description
This form provides for the reporting of operational and catch data collected by scientific observers at sea, or from data reviewed through Electronic Monitoring Systems, for longline fisheries under the IOTC Regional Observer Scheme (ROS). It is designed to capture verified information on fishing activities, catch composition, bycatch associated with longline operations, and the implementation of mitigation measures. The reporting format follows standards adopted by the IOTC Scientific Committee (SC) and incorporates multiple hierarchical data levels, ranging from trip and set information to species-specific catch and bycatch records.
Click here to download a blank version of Form ROS-LL, or return to the list of all IOTC data reporting forms.
Data Content
Form ROS-LL is an XLSX workbook comprising 19 sheets, designed to report the mandatory (M; blue cells) and optional (O; green cells) data fields defined by the SC. The current version builds on the most recent revision of ROS fields endorsed at the 27th session of the SC (IOTC-2024-SC27-DATA01). The sheets are interconnected through technical identifiers (e.g., observer trip ID, set ID), enabling the hierarchical organisation of the observations to be maintained.
| META |
Metadata |
Trip |
Information on the data submission and main characteristics |
| O-INFO |
Metadata |
Observer & Trip |
Information on the observer and the fishing trip observed |
| V-INFO |
Technology / Equipment |
Trip |
Information on the fishing vessel, its gear, and personnel |
| V-TRIP |
Effort |
Trip |
Information on the fishing trip’s departure and return |
| V-ATTRIBUTES |
Technology / Equipment |
Vessel |
Information on the vessel’s attributes and equipment |
| G-GENERAL |
Technology / Equipment |
Trip |
Information on the fishing gear’s equipment and machinery |
| G-CONFIG-BRANCHLINES |
Technology / Equipment |
Branchline section |
Information on longline branchline configurations |
| G-CONFIG-MITIGATION-DEVICES |
Technology / Equipment |
Trip |
Information on mitigation devices |
| E-SET |
Effort & Technology / Equipment |
Set |
Information on effort (sets) and gear characteristics (materials, targeting) |
| E-SET-LIGHTS |
Technology / Equipment |
Set |
Information on the lights used for fish attraction |
| E-SET_MITIGATION_MEASURES |
Technology / Equipment |
Set |
Information on materials and configuration of mitigation devices |
| E-SET-HOOKS |
Technology / Equipment |
Set |
Information on fishing hooks |
| E-SET-BAITS |
Technology / Equipment |
Set |
Information on fishing bait and treatment (e.g., dye) |
| E-SET-HAULING |
Effort & Technology / Equipment |
Set |
Information on effort, mitigation measure, and offal management |
| E-SET-HAULING-BITEOFFS |
Depredation |
Set |
Information on depredation events during hauling |
| E-SET-CATCHES |
Catch |
Set |
Information on magnitude, composition, and fate of catch |
| E-SET-CATCH-SPECIMENS |
Catch |
Specimen |
Information on fish biology (size, sex, maturity), samples, and depredation |
| E-SET-CATCH-SPECIMENS-SSI |
Catch & Technology / Equipment |
Specimen |
Information on specimen condition, depredation, and technical details associated with the catch for Species of Special Interest |
| E-SET-TAG-DETAILS |
Catch |
Specimen |
Information on specimen condition and tag details |
O-INFO
| observed_trip_id |
M |
Unique identifier of the fishing trip defined as the concatenation of (i) the observation or trip start date (YYYY-MM-DD), (ii) the IOTC observer identifier, (iii) the IOTC vessel identifier as per Record of Authorised Vessels (RAV) and the vessel gear group code as per IOTC classification |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
Observer Identification
| observer_iotc_id |
M |
The unique registration identifier assigned to each observer by the IOTC Secretariat |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., IOTC_0976 |
| observer_full_name |
M |
The full name of the scientific observer who collected the data onboard the fishing vessel, or of the Electronic Monitoring reviewer, recorded as first and last names |
String |
e.g., John Doe |
Observed Trip Details
Embarkation: The starting port. If the first observation is available after the departure from the port while the vessel is within port limits, this is still recorded as the observation starting port. If the observation starts at sea outside port limits (onboard observer boarding the vessel via a vessel transfer or EM records not available at the trip starting date due to a recording failure), record “at sea”.
| country |
O |
The country or EEZ of the observation starting location |
Code from Countries |
e.g.,FRA |
| port |
O |
The port of the observation starting location |
Code from Ports |
e.g., REUREU |
| latitude |
O |
The latitude of the observation starting location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
O |
The longitude of the observation starting location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
| date_time_UTC |
O |
The date and time of the start of observations |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2025-09-15 12:00 |
Disembarkation: The ending port. If the last observation is available after a port launch while the vessel is within port limits, this is still recorded as the observation ending port. If the observation ends at sea outside port limits (onboard observer disembarking the vessel via a vessel transfer or EM records not available at the end of observations due to a recording failure) , record “at sea”
| country |
O |
The country or EEZ of the observation ending location |
Code from Countries |
e.g.,FRA |
| port |
O |
The port of the observation ending location |
Code from Ports |
e.g., REUREU |
| latitude |
O |
The latitude of the observation ending location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
O |
The longitude of the observation ending location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
| date_time_UTC |
O |
The date and time of the end of observations |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2025-09-15 12:00 |
Observed Trip Summary
Number of fishing sets: The total number of longline sets deployed by the vessel or observed by the scientific observer during a single fishing trip. Each set corresponds to one complete deployment of the longline gear.
| conducted |
M |
The total number of fishing sets conducted by the vessel from the observation starting date to the observation ending date, regardless their catch and data collection activities |
Integer |
tbd |
| observed |
M |
The total number of fishing sets monitored by the observer. In the case of Electronic Monitoring, only processed sets to be included |
Integer |
tbd |
Number of days: The total number of calendar days the vessel is on a fishing trip, with each day defined as a 24-hour period. These days can be further categorised by activity type (e.g. searching, transiting, actively fishing, or present in fishing areas).
| searching |
O |
The number of days searching during the observation period |
Integer |
tbd |
| actively fishing |
O |
The number of active fishing days during the observation period |
Integer |
tbd |
| in_fishing_area |
O |
The number of days in the fishing area during the observation period |
Integer |
tbd |
| transiting |
O |
The number of days transiting during the observation period |
Integer |
tbd |
| lost |
O |
The number of days lost during the observation period |
Integer |
tbd |
Reasons for lost days: Record the reason(s) a vessel was unable to fish: (i) adverse weather conditions, (ii) mechanical breakdown or inoperative gear or (iii) unforeseen events (specify).
| reason |
O |
The main reasons for days at sea lost to fishing activity |
Code from Reasons for Days Lost |
e.g., AW |
V-INFO
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
V-TRIP
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
Trip Details
Vessel departure: The name and/or geographical coordinates of the port from where the vessel sailed – also include the country. If the vessel started a new trip at sea following transshipment record ‘at-sea’ plus the geographical coordinates corresponding to the location the trip started.
| country |
O |
The country or EEZ of the observation starting location |
Code from Countries |
e.g., FRA |
| port |
O |
The port of the observation starting location |
Code from Ports |
e.g., REUREU |
| latitude |
O |
The latitude of the observation starting location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
O |
The longitude of the observation starting location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
| date_time_utc |
O |
The date and time (in Coordinated Universal Time, UTC) corresponding to the start of the observation period at the reported location |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2025-09-15 12:00 |
Vessel return: The name and/or geographical coordinates of the port where the vessel returned – also include the country. If the vessel arrived at a transshipment location record ‘at-sea’ plus the geographical coordinates corresponding to the location the transshipment started. If the observer disembarked before the vessel returned then record expected port of return as provided by the vessel.
| country |
O |
The country or EEZ of the observation ending location |
Code from Countries |
e.g., FRA |
| port |
O |
The port of the observation ending location |
Code from Ports |
e.g., REUREU |
| latitude |
O |
The latitude of the observation ending location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
O |
The longitude of the observation ending location |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
| date_time_UTC |
O |
The date and time (in Coordinated Universal Time, UTC) corresponding to the end of the observation period at the reported location |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2025-09-15 12:00 |
V-ATTRIBUTES
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
Vessel Attributes
| gross_tonnage |
O |
Gross tonnage (GT), a dimensionless measure of vessel’s internal volume from registration documents |
Integer |
e.g., 2319 |
| loa_m |
O |
The vessel overall length (m) as specified in vessel registration documents |
Floats |
e.g., 84.1 |
| hull_material |
O |
The primary material used in the construction of the vessel’s hull |
Code from Hull Material Types |
e.g., AL |
Main engines: The make (brand) and power of the two main engines.
| make |
O |
The manufacturer or brand name of the vessel’s engine, as specified in the official vessel registration or engine documentation |
String |
e.g., MAN Energy Solutions |
| power_value |
O |
The rated power output of the vessel’s main engine as specified in the official vessel registration or engine documentation |
Integer |
e.g., 5000 |
| power_unit |
O |
Rated output of the vessel’s main engine, as specified in official registration or engine documentation in kilowatts (kW), horsepower (hp), or break horsepower (hp) |
String |
e.g., kW |
| fish_storage_capacity_m3 |
O |
The vessel total maximum capacity (cubic metres; m3) to store catches |
Float |
e.g., 1100 |
| preservation_method |
O |
The fish preservation methods used by the vessel to preserve the catch. Up to four preservation methods may be reported on the form |
Code from Fish Preservation Methods |
e.g., BR |
| storage_type |
O |
The type of structure(s) onboard used by the vessel to store its catch. Up to three storage types may be reported on the form. |
Code from Fish Storage Types |
e.g., BF |
Autonomy range: Vessel autonomy, expressed as the number of days a vessel can remain at sea without refuelling. If this information is not available, autonomy may be expressed as cruising distance (nm).
| range_value |
O |
The vessel’s operational endurance, expressed either as the maximum number of days it can remain at sea without resupply, or as the maximum distance it can cover (in nautical miles, nm) |
Float |
e.g., 30 |
| range_unit |
O |
The unit used to describe the value of autonomy range |
days or nm |
e.g., days |
Vessel Electronics
| gnss |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more Global Navigation Satellite System systems (GNSS) such as the US Global Positioning System (GPS) were present on the vessel (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| vms |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) were present on the vessel (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| ais |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) were present on the vessel (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| Radars |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more radars were present on the vessel (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| track_plotter |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more track plotters were present on the vessel (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| depth_sounder |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more depth sounders were present on the vessel (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| sonar |
O |
Indicates whether one or more sonars were present on the vessel (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| doppler_current_meter |
O |
Indicates whether one or more doppler current meters were present on the vessel |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| xbt |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more expendable bathythermographs (XBT) were present on the vessel |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| vhf_radios |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more VHF radios weere present on the vessel |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| hf_radios |
O |
Indicates whether one or more HF radios were present or not on the vessel |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| satcom |
O |
Indicate whether or not one or more satellite communication systems were present on the vessel |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| fis |
O |
Indicates whether or not one or more Fisheries Information Services were present on the vessel |
String |
e.g., Yes |
Waste Management Details
Waste Management Details: Up to four categories of waste and storage disposal may be reported on the form.
| waste_management_category |
O |
The category of the waste produced by the vessel |
Code from Waste Categories |
e.g., CP |
| waste_storage_disposal_method |
O |
The method used to dispose of the waste |
Code from Storage / Disposal Methods |
e.g., AS |
G-GENERAL
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
Special Equipment or Machinery
| line_setter |
M |
Indicates whether or not the vessel is equipped with a line setter or shooter (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| line_hauler |
M |
Indicates whether or not the vessel is equipped with a line hauler (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| bait_casting_machine |
M |
Indicates whether or not the vessel is equipped with a bait cast machine (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
G-CONFIG-BRANCHLINES
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
Branchline Configurations
| configuration_id |
O |
The identifier for a specific branchline specification as detailed based on the fields below |
Integer |
tbd |
| section_id |
O |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
Integer |
tbd |
| material_type |
O |
The type of material used in each of the four sections of the branchline, where section 1 is that closest to the mainline and section 4 is the leader; note that wire trace may be sheathed by a plastic or nylon coating |
Code from Line Material Types |
e.g., NL |
| branchline_length_m |
O |
The value of the length (m) of the branchline for each of the four sections where section 1 is that closest to the mainline and section 4 is the leader |
Float |
tbd |
| branchline_diameter_cm |
O |
The value of the diameter (cm) of the branchline for each of the four sections where section 1 is that closest to the mainline and section 4 is the leader |
Float |
tbd |
Additional Branchline Details
| storage |
O |
The storage method for the branchlines. Up to four storage methods may be reported on the form |
Code from Branchline Storages |
e.g., BA |
G-CONFIG-MITIGATION-DEVICES
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
Tori Line Details
A tori line is a mitigation device used in longline fisheries to reduce seabird bycatch. It is a streamer line towed from a high point at the stern of the vessel during line setting. The device consists of a main line with brightly coloured streamers attached at intervals, which flutter in the wind and touch the water surface, creating a visual barrier that deters seabirds from approaching and taking baited hooks as they sink.
| tori_line_length |
M |
The total length (m) of the tori line, excluding streamers |
Float |
tbd |
| streamer_type |
M |
The type of streamers which are used with the tori line |
Code from Streamer Types |
e.g., MU |
| reach_surface |
O |
Indicates whether or not the streamers are long enough to touch the surface of the water in calm conditions (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
No |
| streamer_line_length_max_m |
M |
The value of the maximum length (m) of individual streamer lines |
Float |
tbd |
| streamer_line_length_min_m |
O |
The value of the minimum length (m) of individual streamer lines |
Float |
tbd |
| streamer_number_per_line |
M |
The number of streamers that are attached to a single tori line |
Integer |
tbd |
| distance_between_streamers_m |
O |
The distance (m) between streamers |
Float |
tbd |
| tori_line_attached_height_m |
M |
The height that the tori line is attached above the water level |
Float |
tbd |
| towed_objects_type |
O |
The type of object used to maintain tori line tension and to achieve aerial extent when deployed |
tbd |
tbd |
| towed_objects_number |
O |
Number of objects used to maintain tori line tension and to achieve aerial extent when deployed |
Integer |
Integer |
Other Mitigation Devices
| device |
O |
Equipment used onboard to minimise bycatch. Up to five additional devices may be reported on the form |
Code from Mitigation Devices |
e.g., AA |
E-SET
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The unique four-digit numerical code for each fishing set, beginning with 0001 and assigned consecutively from the first to the last line set of the observed trip |
4-digit number |
e.g, 0007 |
Setting Operations
| date_time_utc |
M |
The date and time (in Coordinated Universal Time, UTC) the first dhan buoy and / or radio buoy is deployed to start the setting of the line |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2025-09-15 12:00 |
| latitude |
M |
The latitude of the position at the start of the setting operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
M |
The longitude of the position at the start of the setting operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
End setting
| date_time_utc |
M |
The date and the time (in Coordinated Universal Time, UTC) that the last dhan buoy and / or radio buoy is deployed |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2023-07-01 12:00 |
| latitude |
M |
The latitude of the position at the end of the setting operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
M |
The longitude of the position at the end of the setting operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
| vessel_speed_kn |
M |
The vessel’s average speed expressed in knots (kn) during setting |
Float |
5.5 |
| line_setter_speed_ms |
M |
The speed setting (m/s) of the line setter |
Float |
0.4 |
| mainline_material |
O |
The type of material used to construct the mainline of the longline gear |
Code from Line Material Types |
e.g., NL |
| mainline_length_value |
O |
The total deployed length of the mainline for the specific set. Usually calculated by multiplying the total time to set the line and the average line setter speed, taking into account any interruption times |
Float |
120.2 |
| mainline_length_unit |
O |
The unit used to report the length of the mainline, expressed in kilometres (km) or nautical miles (nm) |
km |
|
| clip_on_time_branchline |
O |
The average time interval, in seconds (s), between the audible signals (‘beeps’) that indicate to the crew when to clip on a branchline |
Float |
10 |
| clip_on_time_buoys |
O |
The average time interval, in seconds (s), between the audible signals (‘beeps’) that indicate to the crew when to clip on a buoy |
Float |
850 |
| number_of_total_hooks_set |
M |
The total number of hooks deployed for the set. Usually calculated by multiplying number of baskets by the average number of hooks between the baskets |
Integer |
e.g., 3000 |
| number_of_total_floats_on_set |
O |
The total number of floats deployed during the set, excluding radio/dhan buoys. Usually calculated by subtracting the number of buoys in their holders before setting by the number of buoys in their holders after setting |
Integer |
e.g., 6 |
| number_of_hooks_between_floats |
M |
The number of hooks set between floats, corresponding to the number of hooks stored in each basket, tub, or reel, and equivalent to the number of branchlines deployed |
Integer |
e.g., 1000 |
| shark_lines_set |
Indicates whether or not shark lines were set during the operation (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., No |
|
| shark_lines_number |
The number of shark lines set during the operation |
Integer |
e.g., 0 |
|
Shark lines
| set |
M |
Indicates whether or not one or more shark lines were set during the operation (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
The number of shark lines set during the operation. If no shark lines are set, the value should be zero (0) |
| leader_material_type |
M |
The type of material used to construct the leader type used in the set |
Code from Line Material Types |
e.g., NL |
| leader_material_percentage |
M |
The percentage of total branchlines in the set estimated for each leader type used |
Float |
tbd |
| branchline_length_minimum |
M |
The minimum value of the total lengths of the branchlines deployed during the fishing set |
Float |
tbd |
| branchline_length_minimum_unit |
M |
The unit of measurement of the minimum value of branchline length (cm or m) |
Float |
m |
| branchline_length_maximum |
M |
The maximum value of the total lengths of the branchlines deployed during the fishing set |
Float |
tbd |
| branchline_length_maximum_unit |
M |
The unit of measurement of the maximum value of branchline length (cm or m) |
Float |
m |
| target_species |
M |
The list of species that are intentionally targeted in the fishery. Up to four target species may be reported on the form |
Code from Target Species |
e.g., AL |
| vms_on |
O |
Indicates whether the Vessel Monitoring System was active (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
E-SET-LIGHTS
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0001 |
Attached Lights
Attached lights: Lights attached to the branchlines.
| light_type |
M |
The type of lights attached to the longline when deployed, classified according to their source of illumination |
Code from Light Types |
e.g., CL |
| light_colour |
M |
The colour of lights attached to the longline when deployed, recorded according to the dominant visible light colour |
Code from Light Colours |
e.g., BU |
| number_of_lights |
M |
The number of lights deployed |
Integer |
tbd |
E-SET-MITIGATION-MEASURES
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0001 |
Mitigation Measures
| number_of_tori_lines_deployed |
M |
The total number of tori lines deployed during the setting operation |
Integer |
e.g., 8 |
| minimum_deck_lighting_used |
M |
Indicates whether or not minimum deck lighting was used during night setting (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| branchline_weighted |
O |
Indicates whether or not the branchline was weighted (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
No |
| average_branchline_weight_g |
M |
The average weight (g) of weights or sinkers attached to the branchlines (weights deployed on the snood prior to setting) |
Float |
tbd |
| percent_branchline_weighted |
M |
The proportion of branchlines weighted (%) |
Float |
tbd |
| hook_sinker_distance |
M |
The distance (cm) of the weights/sinkers from the eye of the hook |
Float |
tbd |
| hook_pods |
M |
Indicates whether or not the bait is protected by hook pods on the branchlines until they are a certain depth below the surface (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., No |
Branchline Details
| configuration_id |
O |
Identifier of the branchline configuration |
Alphanumeric code |
tbd |
| number_of_branchlines_set |
O |
The number of branchlines set by type |
Integer |
tbd |
Other Mitigation Measures Used
| measure |
M |
Any other mitigation measures observed. Up to four measures can be reported on the form |
Code from Mitigation Devices |
e.g., AA |
E-SET-HOOKS
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0004 |
Hook Details
| hook_type |
M |
The type of hooks used |
Code from Hook Types |
e.g., C13 |
| percentage |
O |
The percentage (%) of hooks set by type |
Float |
100 |
| variations |
O |
Indicates any variations in hook type, hook material, and presence/absence of hook ring where possible |
String |
tbd |
E-SET-BAITS
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0095 |
Bait Details
| condition |
M |
The bait type condition used |
Code from Bait Conditions |
e.g., DE |
| species |
M |
The species/species group of bait used |
Code from Bait Species |
e.g., ANX |
| percentage |
M |
The approximate proportion (%) of bait species and condition used across all hooks in the set |
Float |
tbd |
| dye_colour |
O |
The colour(s) that the different baits are dyed |
String |
e.g., blue |
E-SET-HAULING
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0084 |
Hauling Operations
Start hauling
| date_time_utc |
M |
The date and the time (in Coordinated Universal Time, UTC) when the first dhan buoy and / or radio buoy is hauled back on-board to start hauling the line |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2025-09-15 12:00 |
| latitude |
O |
The latitude of the position at the start of the hauling operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
O |
The longitude of the position at the start of the hauling operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
End hauling
| date_time_utc |
M |
The date and the time (in Coordinated Universal Time, UTC) when the last component of the longline gear (dhan buoy and / or radio buoy) is hauled back on-board |
YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm |
e.g., 2025-09-15 12:00 |
| latitude |
O |
The latitude of the position at the end of the hauling operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., -20.88 |
| longitude |
O |
The longitude of the position at the end of the hauling operation |
Decimal degrees (two decimal places) |
e.g., 55.53 |
| offal_management |
O |
The fate given to the offal (fish heads, guts, etc.) and bait produced during the observed set |
Code from Offal Management Types |
e.g., AH |
| position |
O |
The position(s) where offal and used bait was disposed. Up to four positions of offal and bait disposal may be reported on the form |
Code from Vessel Section |
e.g., BW |
bird_scaring_device_at_hauler | M | Indicates whether or not a bird scaring device was deployed during hauling operations (Yes/No/Unk) | String | e.g., No |
number_of_branchline_haulings_observed | M | The number of branchline haulings observed | Integer | tbd |
sampling_protocol | M | Sampling protocol followed by the observer |
CODE from
Sampling Protocol | e.g.,
EP |
E-SET-HAULING-BITEOFFS
| observed_trip_id |
M |
Refers to parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
Refers to parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0023 |
Biteoff Details - Branchline
For each branchline configuration set-up previously identified how many have had the hook bitten off. This only includes biteoffs observed while the observer was in a position to observe and record the hooks coming directly out of the water.
| branchline_configuration_id |
O |
The identifier of the branchline configuration |
Integer |
- |
number_of_biteoffs | O | The number of biteoffs observed | Integer | 1680 |
E-SET-CATCHES
| observed_trip_id |
M |
Refers to parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
Refers to parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0285 |
| catch_id |
M |
Unique within a specific set, as a branch of set_id representing an observed part of the catch |
Alphanumeric code |
tbd |
Catch Details
| species |
M |
The species for each specimen observed |
Code from All Species |
e.g., ABL |
Fate: The fate which includes whether it was retained or discarded and the reason.
| fate_type |
M |
The outcome of the catch, indicating whether a fish was retained on board or discarded |
Code from Types of Fate |
e.g., DI |
| fate |
M |
The final disposition of the catch or sampled portion of the catch, indicating whether it was retained on board or discarded, with specification of the reason where applicable |
Code from Fates |
e.g., DL |
sampling_method | M |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
Code from
Sampling Methods for Catch Estimation | e.g.,
EP |
number_of_fish | M | The numbers of individuals observed/caught by species and fate (including if recording at an individual animal level) | Integer |
tbd |
Weight: The catch weight corresponding to the specified product type recorded in ‘weight code’. If the fish has not been processed, it corresponds to the unprocessed weight.
E-SET-CATCH-SPECIMENS
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0003 |
| catch_id |
M |
The parent catch identifier |
Alphanumeric code |
tbd |
| specimen_id |
M |
A unique four-digit numerical code for each specimen, beginning with 0001, assigned consecutively within the same catch detail of a set during the observed trip |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0005 |
Specimen Details
| sampling_period |
M |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
Code from Sampling Period |
e.g., BS |
| sampling_method |
M |
The sampling method used for the collection of biological sub-sample(s) |
Code from Biological Sampling Method |
e.g., ES |
Length : The specimen’s individual length corresponding to the specified length type. Up to two length measurements may be reported on the form.
| length_type |
M |
The type of length used for the measurement |
Code from Length Measurements |
e.g., CF |
| length_value_cm |
M |
The value of length corresponding to the length type taken rounded to the lower centimetre |
Float |
e.g., 34 |
| length_measuring_tool tool |
M |
The tool used for the measurement of the fish length |
Code from Length Measurement Tools |
e.g., CA |
| is_straight |
M |
Indicates whether the size measurement was made straight (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
Weight: The specimen’s individual weight corresponding to the specified product type. Unprocessed weight when the fish has not been processed.
| weight_processing_type |
O |
The processing/dressing used for the weight measurement |
Code from Weight Measurements |
e.g., GG |
| weight_value_kg |
O |
The weight corresponding to the weight measurement type code |
Float |
e.g., 43.2 |
| weight_estimation_method |
O |
The method used to estimate the weight of the specimen |
Code from Weight Measurement Tools |
e.g., BR |
| sex |
O |
The sex of the sampled fish specimen |
Code from Sex |
e.g., F |
Maturity: The stage of maturity of the specimen according to standard maturity scales approved by the IOTC.
| maturity_scale |
O |
The standardised system used to classify the reproductive development of fish |
String |
Code list being developed |
| maturity_stage |
O |
The reproductive stage of a fish determined through visual inspection of the gonads without the aid of a microscope |
String |
Code list being developed |
Sample collected: The following details on the collection of samples: a) type (e.g., otoliths, spine clippings, and genetic samples), b) preservation method (e.g., alcohol, frozen, etc.), c) destination (i.e., location to be sent/stored)
| sample_type |
O |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
Code from Sampling Type |
CODE LIST TO DEVELOP |
| sample_preservation_method |
O |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
Code from Sample Preservation Method |
CODE LIST TO DEVELOP |
| sample_destination** |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
CODE LIST TO DEVELOP |
tbd |
|
Depredation method:
| depredation_source |
O |
For depredated specimens/or catch, the depredation source should be based on depredation scar characteristics. For non-depredated specimens, the value should be ‘NA’ (not available) |
Code from Depredation Sources |
e.g., BA |
| observed_predatory |
O |
For depredated specimens/or catch, the predator species directly observed and identified. If the predator was not observed, the value is ‘UNK’ (unknown). For non-depredated specimens, the value should be ‘NA’ (not available) |
Code from Predator Species |
e.g., AG15 |
E-SET-CATCHES-SSI
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0004 |
| catch_id |
M |
The parent catch identifier |
Alphanumeric code |
tbd |
| specimen_id |
M |
The parent specimen identifier |
4-digit code |
tbd |
Additional Catch Details on SSI
| condition_at_capture |
M |
The condition of the specimen at capture |
Code from Individual Conditions |
e.g., A0 |
| condition_at_release |
M |
The condition of the specimen at the time of release |
Code from Individual Conditions |
e.g., A0 |
| gear_interaction |
M |
The type of interaction of the specimen with the fishing gear (“UK” if unknown as not possible to collect) |
Code from Gear Interactions |
e.g., EF |
| hook_type |
O |
The type of hook the individual was hauled on |
Code Hook Types from |
e.g., C11 |
| bait |
O |
The type and condition of the bait the individual was hauled on |
|
|
| bait_condition |
O |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
Code from Bait Conditions |
e.g., DE |
| bait_type |
O |
DESCRIPTION TO ADD |
Code from Bait Types |
e.g., FF |
Leader ||||
| material |
M |
The leader material the SSI individual was hauled on |
Code from Line Material Types |
e.g., MN |
| diameter |
O |
The thickness (mm) of the leader the SSI individual was hauled on |
Float |
|
| dehooker_device |
O |
The dehooking or line cutting device used to extract the hook |
Code Dehooker Types from |
e.g., HD |
| brought_onboard |
O |
Indicates whether or not the specimen was brought onboard (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| handling_method |
O |
Detail how the specimen was brought onboard |
Code from Handling Methods |
e.g., AN |
| revival |
O |
Indicates whether or not the release took place with resuscitation for turtles (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| photo_id |
O |
The unique identifier of the photo taken of a specimen |
Alphanumeric code |
e.g., Doe_Hawwa_20260302_1435_hawksbill.png |
| depredation_details |
|
|
|
|
| depredation_source |
O |
The depredation source based on depredation scar characteristics for depredated specimens (NA for non-depredated specimens) |
Code from Depredation Sources |
e.g., BA |
| observed_predator |
O |
The predator species directly observed and identified or unknown (UNK) when not observed (NA for non-depredated specimens) |
CODE from Predator Species |
e.g., AG15 |
E-SET-TAG-DETAILS
| observed_trip_id |
M |
The parent observed trip identifier |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., 2024-01-23/IOTCFRA001/IOTC012345/LL |
| set_id |
M |
The parent set identifier |
4-digit number |
e.g., 0023 |
| catch_id |
M |
The parent catch identifier |
Alphanumeric |
tbd |
| specimen_id |
M |
The parent specimen identifier |
4-digit number |
tbd |
Tag Details
| release |
O |
Indicates whether or not the individual was re-released with a tag attached (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., No |
| recovery |
O |
Indicates whether or not the individual was recovered with a tag attached (Yes/No/Unk) |
String |
e.g., Yes |
| type |
O |
The type of tag used |
Code from Tag Types |
e.g., CP |
| tag_id |
O |
The tag identifier(s) |
Alphanumeric |
e.g., AA19051 |
| finder_name |
O |
The full name of the person who found the tag, recorded as first and last names |
String |
e.g., Jane Doe |
| finder_contact_details |
O |
The contact details (e.g., address, email, telephone) of the person who found the tag |
String |
e.g., jane.doe@fishing.org | (650) 214-6369 |
Reporting Deadlines
- Longline fisheries: 30 June (preliminary), 30 December (final)
Reference Code Lists
Entities
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Countries
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Ports
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Reasons for Days Lost
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Target Species
- Permalink
- Version: 1.0.1
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Fishing Gears
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- Version: 1.0.0
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Hull Material Types
- Permalink
- Version: 1.0.0
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Fish Preservation Methods
- Permalink
- Version: 1.0.0
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Vessel Size Types
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- Version: 1.0.0
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Fish Storage Types
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Waste Categories
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Storage / Disposal Methods
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Line Material Types
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Branchline Storages
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Streamer Types
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Mitigation Devices
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Light Types
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- Version: 1.0.0
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Light Colours
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Hook Types
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Bait Conditions
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- Version: 1.0.0
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Bait Species
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- Version: 1.0.1
- Last update: 2025-06-27
just to double check, we don’t want “bait type”, but we do want “bait species”
Offal Management Types
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- Version: 1.0.0
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Vessel Sections
- Permalink
- Version: 1.0.0
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Sampling protocols
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All Species
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- Version: 1.0.1
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Types of Fate
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Fates
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Sampling Method for Catch Estimation
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Fish Processing Types
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- Version: 1.0.0
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Total Catch Estimation
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Sampling Period
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Biological Sampling Method
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Length Measurements
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Weight Measurements
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Sex
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Sampling Type
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Sample Preservation Methods
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Depredation Sources
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Predator Species
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Individual Conditions
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Gear Interactions
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Hook Types
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Bait Conditions
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Dehooker Types
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Handling Methods
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Tag Types
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