The selection of fishing vessel fleet operations using a multiple criteria optimization method

The methodology adopted in the design of small fishing vessels is usually concerned only with the vessel's technical characteristics and the procedures utilized may not include consideration of the relevant fishing environment. This paper describes an approach which incorporates operational, economic and technical considerations in a compressive manner. The efficiency of using multicriteria decision making methods in design is investigated with special reference to small vessels. A model is presented which takes into account various operational and fish resource factors. This allows the inclusion of a number of potentially conflicting requirements and goals within the design process. The resulting analysis identifies the optimum fleet mix for three types of fishing vessels for use in a fishing environment of a developing country.