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Across the globe, regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) are responsible for overseeing the catch
of highly migratory fishes that traverse the waters of many nations. To ensure that these fisheries are sustainable,
RFMOs need reliable data on what, how, and where fish are caught, and whether rules and regulations are being
followed. Although many RFMOs have mandated that observers be on board purse seine vessels to gather
such data, it can be challenging to collect it from other types of vessels, which in turn can make scientific and
compliance processes less effective. As RFMOs seek to improve oversight of their fishing fleets, electronic
monitoring (EM) can be an effective way to meet their goals.
EM systems—a combination of cameras, computers, GPS, and gear sensors on a vessel—can complement
coverage by human observers. EM can also be used to collect data on fleets that have not been independently
monitored. Many entities using these systems have created an EM program and set standards for how the
information is collected, transferred, analysed, and stored. Managers, scientists, and vessel owners can then use
this data to effectively manage the fisheries.
