study the significance of recreational fishing on local fish stocks and the economy.

Dan Hellin is studying towards his Master's degree in Tropical Coastal Management. The idea for this study emanated from discussions with Dr. Brian Luckhurst and Dr. Robbie Smith of the Division of Fisheries. Whilst there is data on commercial fishing, little is currently known about the importance of recreational fishing to Bermuda.

Mr. Hellin told The Royal Gazette : "I wanted to do something of use to Bermuda for my dissertation and so, given this gap in information on local fishing, I chose this subject.'' Mr. Hellin is concentrating on off-shore fishing and is interested in talking to the crew of any vessel as it returns to shore to off load its catch. He will be travelling all over the Island to collect this data and has prepared log books and questionnaires to be completed by those participating in the study.

Mr. Hellin said he wished to make it clear that the purpose of the study is simply to gather information for his dissertation. His efforts are completely self-funded and he is not employed by any local Government department, although he will give his findings to the Fisheries Division.

"I am not here to spy on anyone,'' he said. "I am just trying to get the information I need.'' Mr. Hellin stressed that those interviewed will not be required to provide their names nor the name of their vessels. In the study they will be referred to by number.

The log books Mr. Hellin has prepared record the species of fish, its weight, the date and location where it was caught, and the kind of bait used. Mr.

Hellin stated that the most important data however will be the total time needed to catch the fish which will give a good indication of the density of the population of each species.

Other information of use will be details of the weather on the day, the specifications of the vessel and the equipment used. To assess the economic impact of recreational fishing, fishermen will be asked about how much they spend on fishing each year.

Mr. Hellin will be in Bermuda until July 9 and can be contacted at the Bermuda Biological Station for Research on 297-1880 ext. 249. He would be glad to hear from anyone who will be able to assist him with this study.