According to IPHC the charter will operate out of Newport, Oregon, and is expected to take approximately 1 to 2 fishing days to complete, plus transit and offload time. While specific charter dates are flexible, the charter must be conducted either between June 1 and June 19, or between July 10 and August 7. It is informed that the purpose of the charter is to collect a total of (30) live halibut ranging in size from 70-89 cm (28-35″) in length and deliver them to the Oregon Coast Aquarium (OCA) in Newport, Oregon.
It is also told that the live halibut will be used in a study to determine the feasibility of using externally-affixed electronic archival tags. The vessel will fish in the vicinity of Heceta Bank, at or near IPHC setline survey station 1035 (44° 50′ north latitude by 124° 25′ west longitude), in order to maximize catch rates and minimize the time fish are held on board before delivery. The proposed collection site is located roughly 20 nautical miles from Newport.
IPHC asked the interested vessel owners interested to submit a bid based upon a lump sum for delivery of the required number of live halibut to the port of Newport, including crew, fuel, and food expenses. The vessel must have accommodation for at least one, preferably two, IPHC staff members in addition to the normal crew, and a reasonably smooth-surfaced fish hold capable of being flooded, with a system which allows fresh seawater to be circulated.
It is said that the vessels need not be licensed for halibut fishing to be eligible. The IPHC is not restricted as to nationality of the vessels it charters, but the vessel is responsible for compliance with all customs regulations.
