Cruise Results: NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow (R-225), Cruise No. HB 12-06 (Parts I -IV), Fall Bottom Trawl Survey

The objectives of the cruise were to: (1) determine the seasonal distribution and relative abundance of fish and invertebrate species found on the continental shelf; (2) collect biological samples for age determinations and growth studies, fecundity, maturity, and feeding ecology; (3) opportunistically test trawl gear, methods, or survey related equipment that may benefit the trawl survey in the future; (4) collect oceanographic data, including CTD casts and bongo tows at select stations; (5) collect acoustic data along cruise tracks, as well as test and conduct preliminary survey operations with acoustic systems, including the EK-60 and ME-70.