The design of intelligent management plans for marine fisheries requires re
cognition of the uncertainty of marine systems when assessing fishery perfo
rmance through the use of bio-economic indicators. The uncertainty causing
variability in the estimated values of the bio-economic indicators is incor
porated through the use of Monte Carlo analysis to estimate the probability
of exceeding limit reference points. To account for natural variability an
d other sources of uncertainty, estimates of appropriate fishery bio-econom
ic indicators are needed in order to re-evaluate the fishery periodically a
nd establish new reference points and corresponding management strategies.
This paper concentrates on this aspect of the management process. It presen
ts a classification of indicators in accordance with the level, change and
structure framework. Alternative approaches to deal with risk and uncertain
ty in data-limited management contexts are discussed.