Title: Evaluation of the trends in fish landing distribution and fishing effort in Saint Lucia.

This study analyses trends in field sampling catch and effort data collected by the Saint Lucia Department of Fisheries from 1995-2021, with total and sample effort values calculated from 2000-2021. A cluster analysis of all species was conducted and standardised CPUE calculations using the generalised linear model were performed for six (6) commonly caught large oceanic pelagic species using trolling gear: dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus), yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares), skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), blackfin tuna (Thunnus atlanticus), gulf sierra mackerel (Scomberomorus concolor), and blue marlin (Makaira nigricans). The analysis revealed an average annual landing of 1,215 tonnes from 2000 to 2021, with a peak of 1,545 tonnes in 2001. Fishing effort fluctuated slightly over the years, and Saint Lucian fishers employed 23 different gears and techniques. Cluster analysis identified four (4) main clusters of species caught over time, with trolling being the most commonly used gear across all clusters. Furthermore, CPUE calculations revealed that values varied by species, and the introduction of fish-aggregating devices may have enhanced large pelagic catches. Overall, it is imperative that data collection and analysis processes adapt to changes reflected in the data. Improved collection of biological data, such as length-based data, continued training of data collectors, and improved data monitoring processes, could aid in the analysis of sound data that would assist in making well-informed management decisions.