Development of a Gear-Based Fisheries Management Index Incorporating Operational Metrics and Ecosystem Impact Indicators in Korean Fisheries

Traditional single-species fisheries management has proven inadequate for capturing ecosystem interactions, leading to a shift toward ecosystem-based approaches. In Korea, diverse small- and medium-scale with varying gear types, production volumes, and practices require management tools that address both ecological and industrial needs. This study developed a Gear-based Fisheries Management Index (GFMI) for 24 coastal and offshore fisheries in Korea. The framework, based on the “ideal gear attributes” defined by ICES, is structured around three objectives: gear controllability, environmental sustainability, and operational functionality. Sub-indicators and weights were derived through expert consultation using the Analytic Hierarchy Process and standardized with Z-scores from national statistics, including production volume, license numbers, and accident rates. Results show that in coastal fisheries, coastal gillnets (61.7) and coastal improved stow nets (60.7) recorded the highest scores, largely due to negative impacts such as bycatch, reproductive capacity, and gear loss. Coastal purse seines (40.9) received the lowest score, reflecting species selectivity advantages. In offshore fisheries, large bottom pair trawls (71.8) and Southwestern medium-size bottom pair trawl (69.3) ranked highest, indicating strong habitat impacts. While coastal improved stow nets, large purse seines, and large trawls performed well in operational functionality, high costs and efficiency constraints remain key vulnerabilities.