Timely and reliable data are critical for understanding the status of a resource and sustainable fisheries management. Information developed from an EFP may be used by CDFW to support regulatory change proposals or other management actions.
CDFW views fishing under the EFP as a privilege beyond recreational or commercial fishing, as the EFP Program allows activity that is otherwise unlawful as a tool for informing fisheries management that can significantly improve practices and outcomes across all fishing sectors. As such, permittees are required to collect data and provide annual and final reports to CDFW. Because EFPs are experimental and exploratory in nature, there is no guarantee of increased fishing opportunities or regulatory change following the completion of the experimental period.