Characterization of a developing recreational deep-drop fishery for swordfish off southern California

Abstract

California recreational anglers have recently started using specific deep-drop tackle to target swordfish (Xiphius gladius) below the thermocline during the daytime. Increased rod-and-reel fishing effort stems from promising experimental fishing trials of a recently approved commercial gear type off California (deep-set buoy gear), along with the widespread growth of deep-drop recreational fisheries for swordfish around the world. The rapid development and vast growth potential in this emerging recreational fishery, has outpaced the implementation of sampling programs to accurately quantify swordfish catch, effort, and economic output. We characterized recent sportfishing practices for swordfish and reviewed available California recreational fishery data sources. Findings suggest a sharp increase in estimated catch relative to previous decades and a major shift in the techniques used by local fishers to target swordfish beginning in September 2019. Recent increases in recreational swordfish catches aligned directly with heightened tackle sales for gear specific to deep-drop practices. Given the increased deep-set effort for swordfish within the region and the limited coverage of existing private-vessel catch documentation, additional monitoring efforts are needed to better gauge the potential social, economic, and ecological impacts of this emerging recreational fishery.