LAKET – A scientific monitoring tool for marine recreational fishing along the Basque coast

LAKET is a tool developed by AZTI and funded by the Basque Government to collect data on marine recreational fishing. It forms part of the scientific monitoring of recreational sea fishing activities along the coast of the Basque Autonomous Community.

What is LAKET?

LAKET is a programme for the systematic collection and sampling of data on marine recreational fishing, integrated into the scientific monitoring of leisure fishing activities along the Basque coast.

The programme includes:

Direct sampling of the different recreational fishing modalities.
Active and voluntary participation from the sector, both individually and collectively (for example, in competitions).
Collection of the information required for the scientific monitoring carried out by AZTI.

The problem it solves

Lack of quantitative data on the real impact of recreational fishing on the marine ecosystem.
The need to incorporate this activity into fisheries resource assessments.
The requirement to collect information on species subject to mandatory reporting under EU Regulation (EU, 2019) and the new Control Regulation 2023/2842.
Improving the quality and representativeness of available data.

How does it work?

Direct sampling through face-to-face surveys with fishers practising shore angling, recreational boat fishing or spearfishing.
A platform enabling voluntary data submission by participants.
Promotion of voluntary collaboration between the recreational fishing sector and public institutions.
Collection of information for subsequent scientific analysis.

Thanks to the information gathered, recreational fishing activity can be characterised according to:

The main fishing areas or zones, by modality (shore, boat or spearfishing).
The profile of fishers (age, experience, etc.).
Fishing effort.
Species caught (approximate weight and number of individuals).

Data use and protection

The data collected are used exclusively for scientific purposes. All information is processed anonymously and in aggregated form, in full compliance with current personal data protection legislation.

Key benefits

Strengthens the scientific basis for sustainable management.
Integrates recreational fishing into fisheries resource assessments.
Enhances knowledge of the coastline and its resources.
Ensures methodological rigour and data confidentiality.

Participation and contact

The sector’s participation is essential to improve knowledge and ensure the sustainability of the marine ecosystem.

For further information or to send suggestions: laket.arrantza@azti.es