Sicilian dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) fishery

In 1996, a census was taken of the Sicilian fisheries that engage in dolphi nfish (Coryphaena hippurus L. 1758) fishing. Two different surveys were con ducted; data on fishing boats were obtained from the Naval Registers and fr ominter-viewing boat owners on the wharf. The area sampled was divided into 3 zones and 6 strata. 205 boats were recorded in the eastern zone (Tyrrhen ian and Ionian seas), 57 boats located in 4 different strata were recorded in the western zone. Fishing activities in the Ionian area begin in early A ugust and end in December. In all other areas of Sicily, dolphinfish fishin g begins in early September and continues until December. A census was also taken of the equipment used by the various boats for this activity in the different areas. The surveys showed that FADs are the most commonly employe d method for dolphinfish fishing. The geographical distribution, number and characteristics were recorded for each area surveyed. The catches for the 1996 fishing season distributed for strata and zone are reported.