ACCSP attends 2024 Rhode Island Tog Classic

On October 13, 2024, staff from the Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics Program (ACCSP) had the opportunity to attend the prestigious Rhode Island Tog Classic. This annual event brings together the fishing community to promote camaraderie, foster friendly competition, and collaborate on the important task of data collection.

The primary objective of the 2024 Rhode Island Tog Classic was to raise awareness among anglers about the significance of data collection in supporting sustainable fisheries. As the leading authority for marine fishery statistics along the Atlantic coast, ACCSP plays a key role in helping to standardize data collection methods across the region. Through our work with partner organizations, we aim to streamline reporting and data processing, ensuring that vital information is accessible via the ACCSP Data Warehouse. This collaborative effort is crucial for driving innovation and enhancing the sustainability of Atlantic Coast fisheries.

During the event, ACCSP staff engaged with industry partners, shared knowledge, and assisted Rhode Island state personnel with the collection of age samples from fish. This tournament supports sustainability by having only one fish weighted per angler, and many anglers released fish alive after weigh in. These data are vital for ongoing research and effective fisheries management.

In addition to our collaborative efforts, ACCSP also hosted a vendor booth where participants could learn more about the program and receive ACCSP-branded merchandise, including stickers, mobile phone dry bags, and hats. NOAA Fisheries provided valuable outreach materials, including handouts from the Access Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS), to help further educate attendees on best practices in data collection and reporting.

The Rhode Island Tog Classic serves as an important opportunity for the fishing community to come together, share knowledge, and contribute to the sustainability of Atlantic fisheries for future generations. ACCSP looks forward to continuing its support of these efforts through ongoing collaboration and outreach.