Enter the total number of catches and the total effort units into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Catch Per Unit Effort. 

Catch Per Unit Effort Formula

CPUE = C / E

Variables:

  • CPUE is the Catch Per Unit Effort (catch/unit)
  • C is the total number of catches
  • E is the total effort units

To calculate Catch Per Unit Effort, divide the number of catches by the number of effort units.

How to Calculate Catch Per Unit Effort?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Catch Per Unit Effort.


  1. First, determine the total number of catches. 
  2. Next, determine the total effort units. 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = CPUE = C / E.
  4. Finally, calculate the Catch Per Unit Effort.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

total number of catches = 87

total effort units = 3

FAQs

What is the significance of Catch Per Unit Effort in fisheries management?

Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) is a crucial metric in fisheries management as it provides an index of the abundance of a fish stock. By tracking CPUE over time, fisheries managers can assess whether a fish population is increasing, stable, or declining, which helps in making informed decisions about sustainable fishing practices and conservation measures.

Can CPUE be used for all types of fishing activities?

While CPUE is widely used in commercial and recreational fisheries assessments, its accuracy and applicability can vary depending on the fishing method, the species being targeted, and the effort measurement units. It is most effective when the fishing effort is consistent in terms of gear used, time spent fishing, and area covered.

How does environmental change affect CPUE?

Environmental changes, such as water temperature fluctuations, habitat degradation, and changes in prey availability, can significantly affect CPUE. These changes can alter fish behavior and distribution, making it more challenging to catch them, which could lead to a decrease in CPUE even if the fish population remains stable.

What are some limitations of using CPUE as an indicator of fish population health?

CPUE has several limitations, including the assumption that catchability remains constant over time. Changes in fishing technology, fish behavior, and environmental conditions can all affect catchability. Additionally, CPUE does not provide information on the age structure or reproductive status of the fish population, which are important factors in assessing the health and sustainability of fish stocks.