There are over 50 surveys in this series which began in 1983. The aim of these
are to provide abundance indices of 2-4 year old bass. The catch density of
other species taken is also recorded. The survey was undertaken twice yearly
during May and September for most years up to 2009. Since then one September
survey each year has taken place.
The abundance, age and length of bass is recorded from fishing stations on a
standard grid in Southampton Water, the Solent, and Portsmouth and Chichester
Harbours using a standard bass trawl. A QA exercise has been undertaken in
February 2014.