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Maps, plates, charts, etc., may be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too large to be entirely included in one exposure are filmed beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right end top to bottom, as many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent dtre filmAs A des taux de reduction diffArents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seul clichA, il est filmA A partir de i'angle supArieur gauche, de gauche A droite, et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre d'images nAcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mAthode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 4.-SUMMARY OF THE FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS CONDUCTED IN THE NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN AND BERING SEA FROM JULY 1, 1888, TO JULY 1, 1892, BY THE U. S. FISH COMMISSION STEAMER ALBATROSS. BY aiCHARD RATHBUN. INTRODUCTION. The building, in 1882, of a staunch sea-going steamer, thoroughly equipped for the purposes of the U. S. Fish Commission, afforded, for the first time, the proper means for studying the extensive ocean fishing-grounds adjacent to the Atlantic sea- coast of the United States. During the five years following her completion the steamer Albatross was actively employed, and with marked success, in this special field of work, the region covered by her operations extending from off Newfoundland to the northern shores of South America. The interest aroused by these investiga- tions, the utility of which had been fully demonstrated, led to a demand for the trans- fer of the Albatross to the North Pacific Ocean, a proposition which met the approval of the late Commissioner of Fisheries, Prof. Spencer F. Baird, and was later sanc- tioned by Congress. Extensive arrangements were necessary in preparation for so long a cruise, but they were satisfactorily completed in the fall of 1887, and on November 21 of that year the ship left Norfolk, Va., for San Francisco. The first systematic researclv^s bearing upon the economic marine fishes of the western coast of North America were conducted in 1879 and 1880, by Dr. David S. Jordan and Prof. Charles H. Gilbert, for Washington, Oregon, and California, and by Dr. Tarleton H. Bean, for Alaska. Not having suitable facilities for investigating the fishing-grounds, the work of these naturalists was chiefly limited to collecting and studying the fie aes obtainable along the shores and from the fishermen, but, neverthe- less, exceedingly important results were accomplished by them. These have beeu published in the reports of the Fish Commission and in the Proceedings of the U. S. National Museum, the series of volumes entitled the Fisheries and Fishery Industries of the United States containing full accounts of their observations relative to fishery matters, as well as a complete review of this entire subject down to 1882. The same information has also been summarized in the Bulletin of the Fish Commission for 1888, in connection with the first report upon the explorations of the Albatross in the North Pacific Ocean. A reference to these papers shows that, while a few cod- fishing vessels were accustomed to resort to certain places in Bering Sea and off the south side of the Alaska Peninsula, very little was then known regarding the extent and charac- 1 eristics of the Alaskan fishing grounds, only a comparatively few soundings had been jaade to ascertain the depths of water at any distance from the land, and the limits of the continental platform were almost wholly undetermined. Eespecting the coasts 127 E_£_ 128 BULLETIN OP THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. of Washington, Oregon, and California even less information was at hand, Dr. Jordan stating tliat — Except the salmon fisheries of the Sacramento and the Colnmbia and the ocean ilsherios in the im- mediate vicinity of San Francisco, the flshories of the Pacific coast exist only as possibilities. For the most part only shore fishing on the smallest scale is done, and no attempt is made to diacovor offshore banks, or to develop them when discovered. Being specially equipped for hydrographic as well as fishery inquiries, the Alba- tross was well adapted to undertake the investigation of this pr{U5tically new region, in wliich, at the outset, the delineation of the bottom was fully as important as the determination of its food resources. She is an iron, twin-screw propeller of 1,00() tons displaircemeiit, measures 234 feet in total length, and is rigged as a brigantine. The hull is modi'iled with reference to thp peculiar character of her movements, and she is provided tb roughout with the most approved appliances for the different branches of research in which she is expected to engage, many of them being a direct outgrowth of the Pish nJommission work. Sounding is carried on by means of fine piano wire, operatiid by a Sigsbee steam and a Tanner hand machine, both working on the princi- ple first demonstrated by Sir William Thomson. Iron rope is employed for dredging, the machinery used in connection with it consisting of a heavy hoisting engine on the spar decli. forward, and a reeling engine on the berth deck underneath, together with all the necessary auxiliary apparatus to insure its smooth running. The outfit supplied for jihysical and fishery observations comprises the means of studying the temperature, density, etc., and of collecting animals in all depths of water, the latter including a large assortment of dredges, beam trawls, and tangles, as well as all the ordinary' forms of fishing gear. The program arranged for the steamer Albatross contemplated, in the beginnin'j, a, somewhjiit rapi d purvey or reconnoissance along the entire western coast line, with the object of ascertaining the contour and condition of the bottom wherever the depths were suitable lor fishing, the positions and outlines of all distinctive flshing-groundS) and the character and abundance of the food resources. Such an investigation could not fail tv yield immediate results, by supplying early information to the fishermen to guide them in seeking favorable localities for the prosecution of their work, and it would also servii as the basis for the more complete development of important regions or of special brsnches of fishing. The Albatross reached San Francisco in May, 1888, and within thre'> years from that time she had completed these preliminary surveys from San Diego !» the Strait of Juan de Fucaj along the southern side of the Alaska Peninsula, from Middleton Island to Unalaska; and in the southeastern partof Bering Sea, from ITnalaiika to the head of Bristol Bay and Cape Fewenham. Since June, 1891, she hivs been detailed to study certain problems respecting the habits of the fiir seals in the '^Torth Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea, and to make the survey for a cable route between Califoxnia and the Hawaiian Islands, neither of which subjects, however, is discussed in this oaper. The width o ' the area coNcred by the fishery explorations of the Albatross has been regnlai}ed mainly by th< depth of water, having extended from the sliaUow soundings close along the shore to the abrupt outer margiti of the continental plat- form. The objact has been to carry the examinations over the entire surface of this platform, into depths of 100 and 200 fathoms, but in order to locate these curves with accuracy it has been necessary to extend the lines of soundings into somewhat deeper water, with the result of contributing very important data of general hydro- FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATR088. 129 Dr. Jordan iricB in the im- ities. For the icovor offshore j8, the Alba- uew region, »rtant as the of 1,000 tons antine. The ,8, and she is t branches of j it outgrowth I piano wire, 311 the priuci- for dredging, ig engine on lath, together ;. The outfit studying the ^r, the latter vrell as all the } beginulD'j, a line, with the er the depths hing-groundsj bigation could fishermen to work, and it ortant regions in May, 1888, inary surveys of the Alaska part of Bering Since June, habits of the e survey for a lich subject/S, Mbatrosn has a the slia'low [itinental plat- jurface of this these curves uto somewhat ;eneral hydro- graphic interest. Bottom fishing is rarely carried on beyond a depth of 200 fathoms, and in a new region it will be limitsd for many years to much shallower water. The sounding work, as indicating the general contour of the bottom, has, therefore, been suftl- ciently extensive for this purpose over the area so far explored, but moredetailed surveys will be required in some localities, especially where the bottom is irregular and the fishery resources are rich enough to call for additional information of that character. The summary of tlie operations of the Albatross herewith presented gives, in geographical sequence, the principal information of interest to the fishermen, which has y i iu gathered during tlie several cruises in the North Pacific Ocean and to Bering Sea. It is based mainly upon the narrative reports of the commanding officer and his civilian assistants, but is necessarily very incomplete, as only a coniparatively small part of the extensive natural- history collections obtained lias yet been studied and described. It is consid>ired, however, that the more essential practical results of the exjilorations have been sufficiently well worked out to warrant placing them before the public in this preliminary paper. The fishes, which comprise the most important group of animals from an economic standpoint, have been placed in the hands of Prof. Charles H. Gilbert, of the Loland Stanford Junior University, who also accom paniedthe Alhatrosij on several trips, and while a number of papers descriptive of the new species secured have been published by him, a discussion of the ichthyological results must be deferred until the completion of his final reports. Much progress has also been made in the working up of the crustaceans and moUusks, which next to the fishes offer the most forms of commercial value. It has been the practice of the«Fish Commission to transmit to the U. S, Coast I and Geodetic Survey and the Hydrographic Office of the Navy all of the liydrographic data obtained by the Albatross at the end of each cruise. This information has been incorporated from time to time in the charts issued by those bureaus, and, as their publications can readily be obtained at all of the principal ports of the United States, it has not been considered expedient for the Fish Commission to duplicate this work. A few charts have, however, been published by the Commission for early distribution among the fishermen, and those relating to the Alaskan fishing-grounds are still the most desirable for the regions covered, being upon a larger scale and containing more details than any others. The five small maps which accompany this paper are intended mainly to show the positions of the principal fishing-grounds; they illustrate only a very small proportion of the work accomplished. At the end of the paper is given a lift of the publications of the Fish Commission, the U. S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, aiirl the Hydrographic Office of the Navy, which relate directly to the investigations of the Albatross, or contain data derived from them, and may be regarded as supplementing the information given in this summary. The titles of tv few earlier papers by the Fish Commission are also cited because of their important bearing upon the questions here discussed. The charts of the Coast Survey and Fish Commission will be found most useful by the fishermen, those of the Hydrographic Office covering the coasts of the United States being usually upon a small scale. Where referred to in the body of the paper they are designated by the numbers which accompany them. It should be understood, however, that this list is very far from complete as regards the literature which now exists relative to the fishes of the North Pacific Ocean, and many published papers respecting the scientific results of the Ubtftmss are here omitted, as they do not immediately concern the question of th(^ practical fisheries. F. C. B. 1892—9 1G1570 130 BULLETIN OP THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. The explorations which the Albatross has been c«)nducting on the Pacific coast, and which it is iutended shall be continued to the extent of making known at least all the more important fishery resources of that region within the limits of the United States, are especially noteworthy from the fact that they constitute an innovation in the support given by government to the development of this ])articular industry. No foreign nation has ever attempted, on more than a very limited scale, to enlighten the fishermen respecting the character, distribution, and abundance along its (loasts of the aquatic forms of life which are the objects of their pursuit. The United States was the first to institute systematic inquiries of this nature, in connection with the work of the Fish Commission along the Atlantic coast, and, although the fisheries had been carried on there assid.iously for several centuries, the value of scientific research in extending the areas of productive fishing-grounds was conclusively established. In the new field presented by the North Pacific Ocean, however, so little information had previously been collected that it was necessary to begin at the very rudiments of the problem, as explained before, and the investigations have been of the most searching and comprehensive character. The conduct of these incpiiries have been in charge of Commander Z. L. Tanner, U. S. N., the commanding officer of the Albatross, whose long connection with the Fish Commission especially qualified him for this important task. Having been closely identified with all of the oceanic work since 1879, and thoroughly appreciating the objects to be attained, his services have been invaluable. In the hydrographic and physical observations he has had the assistance of the naval officers detailed to the ship. On the voyage from Norfolk to San Francisco, the civilian scientific staff consisted of Prof. Leslie A. Leo, of Bowdoin College (in charge), Mr. Charles H. Townsenu, Mr. Thomas Lee, and Mr. Dennis M. Cole. Since that time, however, Mr. Charles H. Townsend has acted as resident naturalist, Mr. A. B. Alexander as fishery expert, and Mr. N. B. Miller as assistant naturalist. Prof. Charles U. Gilbert, now of the Leland Stanford Junior University, iilso accompanied the Albatross, as ichthyologist and chief naturalist, from January to August, 1889, and during the Bering Sea cruise of 1890. The movements of the Albatross. — Leaving Norfolk, Va., on November lil, 1887, the Albatross began the voyage to San Francisco, which terminated on May 11, 1888. Agreeably to the plans proposed by Prof. Baird before his death, the commanding officer was directed to make occasional di-edgings and hydi'ographic examinations on the way, and to afford such opiwrtunities as time permitted fnr studying the local fisheries and other matters of scientific interest at each port of call, as well as at the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador. On the Atlantic side stops were made at Santa Lucia, oJe of the West Indies, Bahia, Brazil, and Montevideo, Uruguay. Scientific observations were conducted at frequent intervals during the passage through the Strait of Magellan, and the ship proceeded thence to Lota, Chile, and Panama. From the latter place the Galapagos Islands were visited, and subse-igre quently Guaymas and La Paz, Mexico, Having perfected the arrangements for a northern cruise, the Albatross sailed from San Francisco on July 4, 1888, for the Alaskan coast, where, during two months, the fishing-banks south of the Alaska Peninsula and adjacent islands, between Una laska and Middleton Island, were made the subject of careful study. The balance of this season was spent on the coasts of Washington and Oregon. The localtto \ fisheries in the neighborhood of Seattle were investigated during the early part of tak Sta Sea rou tarj ION. the Pacific coast, g Iviiown lit least luits of the United an innovation in irticular industry, scale, to enlighten lie along its (ioasts The United States nnet'tiun with the jh the fisheries had f scientific research sively established, o little information the very rudiments ) been of the most FISHERY INVE8TIGATION8 OP THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 131 mder Z. L. Tanner, jction with the Fish iving been closely y appreciating the a hydrographic and detailedto the ship, ic staff consisted of , H. Townsenu, Mr. ver, Mr. Charles H. fS fishery expert, and now of the Leland thyologist and chief ?ea cruise of 1890. November 21, 1887, ed on May 11, 1888. th, the commanding lie examinations on studying the local ill, as well as at the September, after which the survey was carried down the outer coast from Barclay Sound, Vau(5ouvor Island, and the halibut bank off Cape Flattery to the vicinity of Tillamook Rock, just south of the Columbia Itiver. The ship reached San Francisco from this cruise on October 21. After refitting at this place, the months of January and February, 1889, were spent on the coast of (California between Point Conception and the Mexican boundary line, the investigations being carried seaward to include all of the outlying islands, as well as Cortes and Tanner banks, the latter bank having been discovered by the AlhatrosH during this trip. A line of hydrographic stations was then run to Guade- loupe Island, the Alijos Rocks, and the Revillagigedo Islands, after which a series of examinations was conducted through the Gulf of California as far as the mouth of the Colorado River at its upper end. This last inquiry was undertaken for the purpose of ascertaining the i-elatiojis of the Colorado River to the waters of the Gulf, and observations were also made upon the oyster deposits of the region, which, it was conjectured, might afford a source of seed in the event of oyster-cultural operations being started in southern California. Starting from La Paz on April 7, several stops were matle along the outer coast of Lower California, the Albatross returning to San Francisco on the 27th of the same month, but leaving there again on May 21 to resume the work off Washington and Oregon, which was continued until July 1, 1889. From July 8 until July 28, 1889, the ship was used by the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for the purpose of visiting the Indian settlements in southeastern Alaska. Subsequently the investigations were again taken up on the coast of Oregon and were carried southward, terminating October 14 at Cape Mendocino, California. The coast of California, between Point Arena and the Santa Barbara Islands, was examined during March and April, 1890, and on May 5 following the Albatross left San Francisco for Alaska, where the summer was occupied in developing the fishing-grounds in the southeastern pa^t of Bering Sea, and determining the western extension of the continental platform on which the Pribilof Islands are located. The hydrographic results obtained on this cruise were of more than usual interest. During the trip south in the fall, some additional observations were made on the fishing-banks off the southern side of the Alaska Peninsula, a line of deep-sea soundings was run in the direction of the Queen Charlotte Islands, and the survey of the continental platform was completed from Cape Mendocino to Point Arena, California. On January 30, 1891, the Albatrohs nailed from San Francisco on a special expedi- tion, authorized by the President of the United States, to investigate the hydrographic ide stops were made and biological features over an extensive area off the western coast of Mexico, Central and South America, between Lower California and the latitude of the Galapagos Islands. Mr. Alexander Agassiz, director of the Museum of Comparative Zoology of Harvard University, was in charge of the scientific work, which yielded results of great importance. The cruise terminated the last of April. During the summer of 1891, the Albatross was employed to convey the United States seal commissioners, Dr. T. C. Mendenhall and Dr. 0. Hart Merriam, to Bering Sea. During the following fall and winter she was engaged in surveying for the cable route between California and the Hawaiian Islands, under the direction of the Secre- tary of the Xavy. Again during the late spring and summer of 1892 she was detailed Oregon. The local to participate in the sealing investigations in the North Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea, ig the early part of taking an active part in the extensive inquiries directed from the State Department. itevideo, Uruguay. during the passage to Lota, Chile, and visited, and subse- the Albatross sailed during two months, lands, between Una- itudy. The balance 132 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISIl COMMISSION. BERING SEA. 'PUELIMINABY KEMAUKS. Itinerary of the inrestigationn. — Thegeueral survey of Boriiifr Sea by tlio Albatross was coiidiicted during tl-o suiniiuT of 1800, but in 1888, while engaged in a study of the tlshing-grounda south of tlie Alaska Peninsula, a few observations were made in Iliuliuli Harbor and in the passes between IJnalaska Island and Uuiinak Island, and during the summers of 1801 and 1802 some additional inquiries were also prosecuted in connection with the sealing investigations. The principal object of the cruise of 1800 was to determine the positions and characteristics of the more important cod-flshing grounds, but the examinations were extended over the entire southeastern part of Bering Sea to a line some distance beyond the submerged continental border. The Alhatross bntered iJering Sea by way of Unimak Pass in the latter part of May, and carried a line of soundings in a north- erly and easterly direction, a distance of about 80 miles, when stormy weather made it necessary to proceed to Unahiska, the soundings and dredgings being continued on the way. Leaving the latter place on May 28, the ship began a reconnoissance of the shore line of Bristol Bay, which w.is extended first along the north side of the Alaska Peninsula to Kvichak Eiver, and thence to Kuskokwim Eiver. From Cape Newenham a lino of stations was run in the direction of the Northwest Cape of Unimak. On June 23 investigations were commenced on Slime Bank, aiid were carried thence over Baird Bank to the head of Bristol Bay and the Kulukak ground. Two visits were paid to Port Moller and Herendeen Bay, where a coal mine had recently been opened, and partial surveys of both of those inlets were made, which define thei entrance and the channel leading to Coal Harbor. During the first part of August a line of soundings was run from off Cape Cheerful, Unalaska, to Bogosloff Island, from the latter place in a westerly and n(trtherly direction, and subsequently in a southerly direction, for the purpose (»f deveh)piug the 100-fathom curve along the western edge of the broad plateau occupying the eastern part of Bering Sea. The remainder of the season was spent in the vicinity of Unalaska, mainly in determining the resources of the fishing-grounds lying off the northern side of that island. The Alhatross left Bering Sea for the south on August 25. General features of the region examined. — The entire eastern and northern part of Bering Sea is occupied by a broad extension of the continental platfornj, which, for convenience of definition, may be said to terminate abruptly at a depth of about 100 fathoms. On the Siberian side the position of the 100-fathom curve is still undeter- mined, and previous to 1800 no observations had been made respecting the topography of the intervening deeper area, except in the immediate vicinity of the Aleutian chain of islands, where an important line of soundings was run by the U. S. S. Tus- carora in 1874. On the eastern side of Bering Sea the 100-fathom curve extends from off the northern entrance to Unimak Pass in the direction of Cape Navarin, Siberia, form- ing a sinuous line approximately parallel with the coast line of the Alaskan mainland to the east, from which it is distant from 260 to 325 miles. The location of this curve, and therefore of the western border of the platform (as yet only approximately defined in most places), was largely establislied through the investigations of the Albatross in Note. — All bearings are true unleus otberwiae stated. ', ytlio Albatross I in 11 study of i won; made in ak Island, and ilso prosecuted > positions and minations were ^ some distance ing Sea by way ings in a north- ireathcr made it I continued on loissance of the e of the Ahiska "ape Newenham Jniniak. d were carried ground. Two le had recently e, which define he first part of ia, to Bogoslotf id subsequently curve along the iring Sea. The r in determining at island. The northern part of form, which, for •th of about 100 is still undeter- : the topography of the Aleutian he U. S. S. Tus- ids from off the II, Siberia, form- askan mainland »n of this curve, timately defined the Albatross in PISIIERlf INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROH8. I as 1890, the observations being carried by tliat vessel t«» oS^ \,\' N. latitude, or about KiS miles northwesterly from St. Paul Island <»f tiie I'ribilof group. Krom this ]»oint, in 144 fathoms, i' line of soundings was run southward in the direction of Atka Island, developing a least depth of 977 fathoms and a maximum depth of 'J,147 fathoms. A secoiul lino, farther to tiie eastward, extending from latituile Tilio 12' N., longitude 172° 07' W., toward Uliaga Island, immediately to the west of IJmnak Island, shows depths of 1,0.'{.'J tf) 1,H1.S fathoms. Additional deep-sea soundings were made by tbe Albatross to the nortli of ITnalaska Islaiul, and si^veral dredging stations were also occupied in deptlis between KMI and 1,(525 fathoms. In the deeper waters the bottom was composed ])rincipally of green ooze, the absence of foraminifora, according to Oapt. Tanner, being a marked feature of this region. The location of the I'ribilof Islands near the outer edge of this platform, with the interesting problems respecting the habits of the fur seals suggested l)y the contro- versy now in ])rogre88, makes it very important that the jdiysical and biological features of the surroniuling area should be thoroughly studied; but, although some progress in this direction has already been nnide, it is not intended to touch upon the subject in this conne(^tion, the remarks which follow having reference chiefly to the fishing- grounds for cod and halibut. The fishing-banks investigated hy tha Albatross in 1800 are mostly situated to the eastwjird of a line connecting (Jape Neweidiam with the northwest caiu; of IJnimak and off the northern side of Unalaska Island, no extensive cod banks having yet been recorded from outside of these limits in the eastern part of Bering Sea. Capt. Tanner has extended the application of the name Bristol Bay so as to cover all of that region first defined above, but, as genersilly accepted by geographers, it is restricted to the much smaller area bounded on the north, east, and south by the mainland of Alaska, and not extending farther westward than an imaginary line drawn from (Jape Newen- hayi to Cape Seniavin on the peninsula, or to the neighborhood of Port Moller. In the region occupied by these fishing-grounds the depths seh^om exceed 50 fathoms, and the bottom is, for the most part, d.)r. the former unattractive to the cod and tiie latter very uncomfortable to bar. 'e. Me. Alexainler states that uj) to the middle or latter part of June this so-called s.iaie is not siHliciently abundant to give iiir •'; louble, but by .July 1 it becomes so thick iis to render it almost useless to remain upon the bank, and otliti' localities, farthi i north, me then resorted to. kii. mid the fishing be continued late, however, the ilshttom fauna was found to be very rich, aflbrdiiig good feeding-ground for fishes. Hand-line fishing was carried on at each of the dredging stations and also in connection with some of the soundings. Seven trials were made on the western part of the bank, from off the Northwest Cape to oft" Cape Lapin, in depths of 13 to 43 fathoms. The trials occupied from 10 to 15 minutes each and aggregated 9fi minutes, from 9 to 12 lines being employed. The total number of flsh taken was 132, ranging in length from 23 to 37 inches, the average size for ejich catch ranging from 2G§ to 32^ inches. The combined weight of all the fl.sh was 1,528 pounds, making their average weight about 11^ pounds apiece. One halibut, weighing 5 pounds, was also taken in this region, and in 02 fathoms, muddj bottom, just or' jide the bank, 7 cod were captured averaging 12 i>ounds in weight and 30f inches in length. Nineteen cod, averaging 27 inches in length, were secured in Shaw Bay, in a depth of fathoms, sandy bottom, the trial lasting one hour. Five ti'ials, with 8 to 10 hand lines and aggregating 79 minutes, were made at the "jaslern end of the bank in depths of 26 to 44 fathoms. The catch amounted to 53 cod, ranging in size from 20i to 36 inches, and in average size for each trial from 24§ o 31^ inches. Their aggregate weight was 574 pounds, an average of about lOJ '^>ounds each. One halibut, weighing 8 poiiads, was also taken in 32 fathoms. J 136 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. A few attempts have been made to employ cod trawls on Slime Bank, bnt they were not attended with satisfactory results, as the jelly-lishes interpose too great an obstacle to this kind of fishing. This bank, moreover, is otherwise better suited to the use of hand lines, on account of the shallow water and the abundant supply of flsh. There are no available harbors along the adjacent coast, although excellent protection may be found in Shaw Bay during southeast to southwest winds. Winter fishing would, therefore, be attended with much danger from the heavy storms which then prevail, and the season is chiefly limited to the summer months, when ouiy occasional moderate blows occur. It is the opinion of Captain Tanner that a well- found fishing schooner could anchor anywhere on Slime Bank between May and September, with an even chance of being able to ride out any gale she would encounter. Amak Island. — Amak Island lies about 11 miles ofl' Izenbek Bay, and, as indiiiated by the dredging work, seems to be surrounded by a comparatively barren region, some 18 to 20 miles in width, which may be regarded as separating Slime Bank from Baird Bank. How far seaward these conditions hold was not determined, as all of the dredging and fishing stations were within a short distance of the island. Beam trawling was carried on in five different positions (stations Nos. 32G9-3272), but with poor results, the bottom fauna being far from rich. Nine trials were made with hand lines in depths of 10 to 35 fathoms. Two of these proved entirely unsuccessful, while at the remainder the total catch amounted to 33 cod, weighing only 260 pounds, an average weight of about 7.9 pounds apiece. The average length for the several trials ranged from 23 to 29!| inches. So far as the evidence goes, therefore, flsh are less abundant and of smaller size in this region than on the adjacent banks. This may be due in part to the presence of numerous sea lions, which haul out upon Amak Island, Sea Lion Rocks, and the neighboring coast, but it is probable that some other cause must also be iield aitconu table for this condi- tion of affairs, especially as regards tlie scarcity of invertebrates and the relatively smaller size of the cod. Walruses are likewise plentiful in this region, but they are not flsh-feeders. Amak Island affords fairly good protection on its southeast and southwest sides, and can easily be reached from the contiguous parts of both Slime and Baird banks. Baird Bank. — Baird Bank, generally known to'tlie flshermen, in part at least, as Port MoUer bank or ground, was named by Capt. Tanner in honor of the late Prof. Sl)encer F. Baird, the first U. S. Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries. It is the largest of the fishing-grounds yet discovered on the Alaskan coast. As described and charted by Capt. Tanner, it commences a few miles east of Amak Island and extends northeast- ward, off the northern side of the Alaska Peninsula, to the vicinity of Cape Chichagof, at the mouth of the Ugaguk River, a distance of about 230 miles. It has an average width of about 40 miles and an extreme width of 58 miles, its total ar'3a being esti- mated at about 9,200 square miles, which is 2,400 miles more than that of Portlock Bank, off Kadiak Island, and some 800 miles more tlian that of Georges Bank, in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is doubtful, however, if the limits of this bank should be so restricted, as several lines of stations connecting it with Kulukak ground and the region oft' Cape Peirce stiow the extension in that direction of essentially the same depths of water and char- acter of bottom, good fishing also having been obtained at nearly every trial. This would make of Bristol Bay in its restricted sense (inside of a line drawn from Cape Neweuham to Cape Seuiaviu) a practically continuous fishing-ground, except at the nouths Bristol )y Capi ained. md Slii lam to he vici Th< )ank oi ipproxi lot can )oint, h itations- 3ank ai he shoi )ay, in 1300-33 Wishing >f sounc Th< he 15-f »ft' Lag( he dep hey gn !nd of t ion of ] educed >f flne g ocky pi iscovei Ace mtil ofi aken oi u differ >est res •ithoms irge ch earing The he geu( Twf f 26an ieight ( nd scul Off 8 miles atch an iN. Bank, but they ise too great an better suited to ndant supply of liough excellent winds. Winter vy storms which iiths, when ouiy ler that a well- tween May and vould encounter, md, as indicated Y barren region, Millie Bank from nnined, as all of e island. Beam -3272), but with ithoms. Two of catch amounted 9 pounds apiece. 8. So far as the this region than af numerous sea FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMEK ALBATROSS. 137 nouths of the larger rivers and in some other places as explained below. Outside of iristol Bay the observations were not carried beyond the limits of the bank as defined )y Oapt. Tanner, and the entire width of its western portion still remains to be deter- ained. It is not impossible that some connection may be found to exist between Baird ind Slime banks to the north of Amak Island. A line of stations from Cape Newen- lam to the Northwest Cape of Unimak Island, however, showed good fishing only in he vicinity of land. The examination of Baird Bank was begun at the western or southern end of the )ank on June 27. The soundings were generally conducted along regular lines, tpproximately at right angles to the coast, but to the west of Cape Seniavin they were lot carried beyond a maximum distance of about 48 miles from land. Inside of this loint, however, they were run practically from shore to shore. Thirty-two dredging itations (Nos. 3235-3238, 3273-3299, and 3303) were occupied within the limits of Baird iank as originally defined; 4 stations (Nos. 3288-3290, 3295) between the bank and he shores of the peninsula; 7 stations (Nos. 3228-3234) at the extreme head of the lay, in the broad mouth of the Kvichak River; and 14 stations (Nos. 3239-3240, 1300-3302, 3304-3306) between the bank and the northern shores of Bristol Bay. Wishing trials with hand lines were made at all dredging stations and at the majority (f sounding stations. The inner margin of Baird Bant has been made to correspond .ipproximately with he 15-fathom line. A maximum depth of 53 fathoms was discovered about 37 miles iff Lagoon Foint, to the westward of Port MoUer. West of Cape Seniavin, however, lie depths range mostly from 30 to 45 fathoms, while to the eastward of that point hey gradually diminish toward the head of Bristol Bay, the soundings at the extreme ighboring coast, Ind of the bank in that direction indicating depths of 11 to 20 fathoms. In the direc- le for this condi- id the relatively southwest sides, nd Baird banks. part at least, as of the late Prof. It is the largest ibed and charted tends northeast- Cape (J'liichagof, b has an average ar'ia being esti- that of Portlock ges Bank, in the ricted, as several off Cape Peirce water and char- very trial. This Irawn from Cape id, except at the ion of Kulukak Bay and Cape Peirce the depths also decrease gradually, becoming educed to 15 and 17 fathoms on the Kulukak ground. The bottom consists mainly on, but they are ^f flue gray sand, with areas of black sand, black sand and gravel, and occasionally ocky patches near the shores. The bottom fauna over the main part of the bank was iscovered to be rich and varied, in most places corresponding with that of Slime Bank. According to Capt. Tanner, the conditions improved with each line of stations ntil off Port Moller, where the most productive fishing-ground was found. Cod were aken on nearly every trial with the hand lines, but their abundance and quality varied I different hicalities. They we re smaller and in poorer condition near the land, the >est results having been obtained some 15 to 20 miles offshore, in depths of 25 to 40 ithoms. In shallow water tho bottom was often covered with sponges, mussels, and irge clustered barnacles adhering to the rocks, the cutting edges of the latter soon earing the nets to pieces. The results of hand-line fishing may be summarized as follows, with respect to le general grouping of the stations on the bank: Two trials only were made at the extreme southwestern end of the bank, in depths f 26 and 39 fathoms, respectively, the catch consisting of 9 cod, having an average leight of about 10 ]»ound8 and an average length of about 27 inches. A few pollock nd sculpius were also taken at the same time. Off Lagoon Point, in an area covering a lerigth of about 25 miles and extending 8 miles from land, 13 trials were made in depths of IS to 53 fathoms. The total iitch amounted to 56 cod, an average of 4^ to each trial, the average length of the 138 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. trials having been 14 minutes. The average weight of the fish was OJ pounds and their average length 27^ inches. In some places, however, a large proportion of t lie fish ranged from 28 to 36 inches in length. Three trials were located directly off Port Moller, at distances of 16 to 33 miles from land, in depths of 25 to 39 fathoms. At these stations 65 cod were obtained during au aggregate period of 60 minutes, the average weight of the fish being W iwunds and their average length about 30f inches; the range in length was from lii to 39 inches. Off Oape Seuiavin, within an area 23 miles long, extending 44 miles from shore, 9 trials, averaging about30 minutes each, yielded 102 cod, or an average of 11^ to a trial. The average weight of the fish was 10| pounds, their average length 29^ inches, and their range in length from 20 to 36 inches. The average length of the trials was much increased in this region by the fact that at one of the stations, about 12 miles off the cape, fishing was continued for 2^ liours. Forty-one cod were taken at this station in a depth of 20 fathr>m8, and 33 cod about 23 miles farther to the eastward, in 30 fathoms. Another important group of stations occurs off Port Haiden and between thero and Cape Menchikof, covering a length of 28 miles and a width of 67 miles from sboii', Eleven trials were made, averaging 14^ minutes in length, the total catch amounting to 210 fish, an average of about 19^ fiali to a trial. The average weight was lOf pounds, the range in lengtli from 18 to 36 inches, and the average length 29§ inches. From off' Cape Menchikof to the northern extremity of the bank, a distance of some 40 miles, seven trials were made in depths of 11 to 24 fathoms, the average diua tiou of each trial having been about 13^ minutes. The totnl catch was 75 cod, an average of about 10§ to each trial. The average weiglit of the 4sh was 12 pounds, their range in length from 20 to 34 inches, and their average lengtt 30f inches. A comparison of the results obtained at each of the groups of stations above dis cussed ftirnishes some interesting facts respecting the value as fishing-grounds of different parts of Baird Bank, but they are not to be considered as entirely conclusive, owing to the relatively short duration of the fishing trials. For many reasons, how ever, such a comparison is important, especially as directing the attention of the flsli ermen to localities which they have no^isited. The relative abundance of the cod in the dift'erent areas may be expressed by the proportion of fish to the length of time occupied in making the trials, whieli, reduced to minutes, shows that the best results in this respect were obtained off Port Haiden, the remaining areas co»ning in the following order: North of Oape Menchi kof, off Port Moller, off' Oape &eniavin, and off Lagoon Point. A comparison of the groups of stations with reference to the average weight and the average length of tiie cod necessitates a somewhat different arrangement from that above given, the area off Port Moller (13 pounds, 30| inches) taking precedence, followed by " north of Oape Menchikof" (12 pounds, 30| inches), <' off Port Haiden" (10^ pounds, 29ij inches), "<.fl Oape Seniavin" (10| pounds, 29^ inches), " off Lagoou Point" (9^ pounds, 27 J inclies). Many additional observations are recjuired, however, before passing finally upon the relative values of the different parts of the bruk, and this is all the more evident when it is considered that the examinations by the Albatross were restricted te Seniavin and off Port Maiden, but the extent of the area is too great to make such general deductions and comparisons of much value. Good and profitable tishiug could, however, undoubtedly be found in some "laces. Kulukak Bay. — Kulukak Bay occupies a la' ye part of the region included between Cape Oonstantine and Oape Newenhani, and contains Hagemeister Island and the Walrus group. Within this area codfish are found in isolated spots, scarcely entitled to the name of banks, but for convenience sake the title of Kulukak ground has bceu used by Oapt. Tanner to designate them. Extensive shoals occur off Hagemeister and the Walrus islands, G fathoms being found about 15 miles to the southward of the latter. The principal fishing spots are outside of these shoals, as well as to the eastward and westward of them, in depths of 12 to 25 fathoms, the bottom consisting generally of sand, with some mud and gravel, and the fauna being essentially the same as on Baird and Slime banks. These outer grounds have already been referred to under the heading of Baird Bank. They were formerly resorted to at times by fishing vessels, but they are said not to be at present. The fishermen have called attention to a small ground, called Gravel Bank, situated about 16 miles SSW. from the southern end of Hagemeister Island, wliore large cod are reported to be abundant. It has depths of 16 to 20 fathoms, but its size is inconsiderable. It is stated that small fish predominate among the islands of the Walrus group, but that larger ones may be taken in some of the indentations and on some of the rocky patches, although such places are not numerous. Between these islands and the mainland the bottom was found by the AlbatrosH to be exceed- ingly barren, black mud being frequently encountered. Out of 7 trials made near the shore between Cape Constautine and Cape Peirce, cod were captured only twice. One specimen, weighing 17 pounds, was secured in 114 fatljoms about 18 miles west of Cape Constautine, while 8 specimens, averaging 13 pounds in we'^ht and 3.};J inches in length, were taken off the east side of Walrus Island. Cod are said to be abundant in the neighborhood of Cape Peirce, but none were taken by the Albatross in the immediate vicinity of either Cape Peirce or Cape Newenham. Eleven miles southwesterly from the latter cape 2 specimens were obtained, measuring 29 and 32 inches respectively, and 22 miles farther in the same direction a inches. The exa cod are repii 1) it how ex can only bo Conditi abundance, the fishing- data have 11 by the Alba in tlie majo ship was J dragged ah be occupie(] the greates Bank that first ancho! end of a w probably s abundance The to was 110, a average of occupying time to l,t number of 8 to 12 lin Limit ill Bristol minutes (i of 832 cod Alio and long largest 39 and in so! tlie avera 24 to 26 i 30 to 32^ results ol and indi( Th«^ the avera was 15^ MoUer gi reached the same FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 141 direction a total catch of 15 cod was made, but their average size was only 27f iiiclies. The examinations of the Albatross were not carried north of Cape Ncwenham, but cod are reported to occur in greater or less numbers as far north as the ice lino; b it how extensive the banks or how profitable the fishing may be in this region can only be ascertained by a detailed and careful examination. Condition of the cod in Bering Sea. — Attempts have been made to compare the abundance, size, and condition of the cod inhabiting Bering Sea with those taken on tbe ftshing-grounds in the North Atlantic Ocean, but up to the present time sufficient data have not been obtained to Justify couclusionu in this respect. The trials made by the Albatross have all been of short duration, very rarely exceeding 20 minutes, and in the majority of cases not more than 15 minutes. At the same time, moreover, the ship was generally drifting with the wind and current, the hooks being thereby dragged along over the bottom. The fishermen consider that a beith has usually to be occupied for some time before the best fishing begins or the larger fish appear in the greatest numbers. It is recorded as the experience of fishing vessels on Baird Bank that better results are obtained after the lapse of two or three days than when lirst anchoring, and the sui)ply has tended to increase rather than diminish by the end of a week. The bait which falls from the hooks or otherwise reaches the bottom probably serves to tole the fish about the spot, and thus contributes to their greater abundance. The total number of trials made by the Albatross with hand lines in Bristol Bay was 110, and the aggregate amount of time spent in this work was 1,907 minutes, an average of about 17 minutes to each trial. Two of the trials, however, were long ones, occupying 2^ and 3 hours, respectively. If these be deducted it reduces the aggregate time to 1,540 minutes, and the average time to between 13 and 14 minutes. The total number of cod taken during these trials was 922, an average of 8^ fish to a trial. From 8 tQ 12 lines were generally employed. Limiting the calculations to what liave been designated above as the banks proper in Brist however, usions liiiN uks ou the centuries. ow wat€r creases as >d. Capt. the spring have been libut were mall, their ), Capt. A. iiig to his his region, e had also )he fishing Js, some of Jarly every ber fishing- Bonvenient >in, if ewT, >ir bydrog- ncy of tlie sy likely to L as rather irough the 'principal L detailed e found in r contains loller, the irrow and Channel, of Heren- f the coal )ankH and Icult and itaries to tro88 will 1 caution FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 143 until it is ascertained whether the banks about the entrance are permanent or shitting. There is an excellent beach at Mine Harbor for hauling a schooner out, if iieeessary. The rise and fall exceeds 15 feet, and would give several hours each tide to examine or make repairs on a vessel's bottom. Should the coal mine be develoi)cd, as seems probable, the place would aitbrd some facilities for repairing and refitting; water is easily procured and fuel can be had in any quantity. There is no settlement at present on either bay. The coal mine above referred to is situated about IJ miles from the waterfront, to the eastward of Mine Harbor, transportation to the landing being eiFected by means of a tramway operated by a small steam motor. The mine was opened just previous to tiie visit of the Albatross, which took the first output of coal. The latter was used with satisfactory results, but owing to the lack of proper screening facilities much flne material and dirt was delivered with it, and it was found necessary to burn from 20 to 25 per cent more in quantity to obtain the same results as with a fair quality of Wellington coal. For a full account of its steaming qualities, see report of Passed Assistant Engineer C. R. Koelker, U. S. Navy (F. C. 10, pp. 282, 283). Capt. Tanner states, however, that, "considering that it was taken from a vein near the surface, the extra amount required to furnish the same quantity of steam will not seem excessive. It was shown that the coal possesses merit, and it will doubtless improve with the development of the deeper veins." Salmon fishery on the Nushagalc River. — While the Albatross was anchored in the Nushagak River, at the head of Bristol Bay, many important facts respecting the salmon fishery and canning industry which has recently sprung up in that locality were obtained by Mr. Alexander, whose discussion of the subject is contained in the appendix to the report of the Fish Commission for 1889-1891. The following statements from this source relate mainly to matters of scientific interest: The first salmon cannery on the Nushagak was built in 1884 by the Arctic Canning Coinpanj'. Three similar establishments have been added since that time, all being located between the mouth of Wood River and Clark Point. The salmon first make their appearance about June 1, and remain from forty-five t-o sixty days. As the sea- son is short, full preparations are mjwle in advance and great activity prevails during the continuance of the run. The king salmon a[)pear ejirliest and are present about a fortnight, being first sought for off Coffee Point, a high promontory situated on the west side of the river. They are followed by the red salmon, and the hitter closely by the silver salmon. During the season of 1890 the first salmon were taken on the morning of June 3, after which several days elapsed before other fish were seen. The presence of ice retards their movements; they will not enter the river until it has disappeared and the temperature of the water has moderated to some extent. ^^'he.n the salmon are late in arriving, they proceed immediately upstream to Lakes Nushagak and Aleknagik, where they spawn ; but if the season is an ope- 1 one, they move more leisurely, and furnish better opportunities for fishing. In the spring of 1890 the river was blockaded with ice until May 20, and the run was late in conse- quence. The fishermen believe that the salmon spawn about a month after entering the river, and the superintei:dent of the Bristol Bay Canning Company, who has had much experience in this region, states that from the first of August until October jhe young are passing down the river and into the sea in immense numbers. It takes on an average six of the red salmon, and the same number of silver I I 144 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. I If salmon, to make a cane of the canued goods. Two luid one-half of the king salmou arc equivalent to the same amount. Kach cannery has hitherto maintained from one to five traps for capturing salmon, but the yield by this means has not warranted the expense of keeping tiicni in repair. The main body of the trap is made of twine, but the leaders are constructed of galvanized wire netting, which is better adapted tjo withstand the pressure of drift material brought down by the current. N^otwithstanding every i)ret'-aution, howovcir, t'.iey are frequently swept away. Gill nets have now been adopted by all the canneries, as ailbrding the best results. Two sizes are in use. The one for king salmon measures 100 fathoms long by 2^^ feet deep, and has a 9J-inch mesh; the other, for red and silver salmon, is 70 fathoms long by 13 feet deep, and has a G^-iuch mesh. They seldom last more than a single season, as they are subject to very hard usage. The salmon are sometimes most abundant a considerable distance above the canneries, or from 40 to 50 miles from the mouth of the river. At such times the fish- ermen are carried to the fishing-grounds, where they live on board of tlie scow lighters ordinarily employed for discharging and loading vessels, a stea the Corn- submerged 1 Pass was PI8HEBY INVESTIGATIONS OP THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 145 used by the AlbatrosH on leaving Beiing Sea, in August of the same year, the trip tlii'ough being referred to by C'apt. Tanner as follows: The atiiioaphcre was usually clear, and as wo liad never used AkutanPaas wo availed onrsolvcs of the favorabli- opportnnily of passing through and examining it. There is a clear channel two miles onmirii in width between Cape Morgan and four omall is'ots lying off Unulga Island, free from dangers exct'pt near tho shores, with 26 fathoms, rocky bottom, in the narrowest part of the pass. Unnlaska Harbor and adjacent waters. — During the summer of 1888 collecting was extensively carried on in this harbor and in tiie waters adjacent to it. Seining proved everywhere successftil within the limits of the harbor, but the few hauls miule at or near its mouth were unproductive, owing probably to the fact that the water there deepens rapidly from the shore outwards. The natives, however, take cod in tliese exposed positions. The Oncorhynchus gorbuscha (humpback salmon), 0. keta (dog salmon), and O. nerka were seined abundantly both in the main harbor and in Captain Harbor at its heaortant practical results. A complete review of the work accomplished on this survey has been publislied in the Bulletin of the Fish Commission for 188H (pjt. 1-92), together with a large chart suit- able for navigation purposes, making it unnecessary, in this uouueetioii, to give more than a general sumnmry of the observations. The ship left San Prancisco, (Jal., on this expedition, July 4, 1888. After coaling at Departuie Hay, Hritish Columbia, and making rhe passage inside of Vanirouver Island, a course was laid in the direction of the Shnmagin Islands, r ' ' which a line of deep-sea soundings was begun on July 19, being carried thence to the vicinity of Kiliuliuk Hay, Unaiasl-ii. The fishery investigations were commenced off the latter island, and were contii led northeasterly along the coast. Ten or eleven days were spent in the vicinity of Unalaska and Uninmk Islands, including iJavidson Bank. Soundings were carried through IJnimak Pass and oft" the northern side of Akiin and Akutan Islands to Iliuliuk Harbor, Unalaska, where a supply of coal was obtained, aud where opportmiity was given to study the fisheries and the inshore tlshiug-grounds of the region. The reported positions of Leuard Rock and Anderson Kock, south of the Sannak Islands, were examined July 30, and on the following day the steamer arrived at Humboldt Harbor, Popoft", one of the Shumagin Islands. At this place the services of Capt. Paul M. Pavloft", a well-known pilot of the coast, were secured. Subsequently, Eagle Harbor, Nagai Island, and Yukon Harbor, Big Koniusbi Island, were visited. About six days were spent in the region between the Sannak Islands and the Shumagius, and on Shumagin Bank, the explora- tion of whi(;ii was completed August (>. From the Shumagin Islands souiulings were carried to Mitrofania island and bay on the mainland, and thence to Liglit-house Rocks, Chirikoff Island, and the Trinity Islands, the Albatrosn arriving .it Old Harbor, on the sonthern side of Kadiak Island, Angnst 10. The development of Albatross Bank occupied five days, and on the,14th the harbor of St. Paul, at the eastern end of Kadiak Island was reached. Tiie steamer was detained here until the 20th in coaling and in studying the fisheries and shore flshiug-grounds, beginning the investi- gation of Portlock Bank August 21. On the afternoon of the 24th an anchorage was made ofi" Middleton Island, which was vsited the next day for the purpose of deter- mining its precise i>oaition and the charat n- of its surroundings. Prom this point the AlhatrosK proceeded to one of the reported )siLions of Pamplona Rocks, in lat. 59° O.'J' N., long. 142° 40' W., where a thorough se rch was made for these supposed dangers to navigation, but no trace of them was found within 20 miles of this locality. Having finished this examination a course was laid down the coast for Seattle, Wash. Althoagli much foggy weather was encountered dvi^ug the summer, making it difficult at times to locate the sounding stations with accuracy, the work was prose- cuted without serious delays, and vevj successful results were accomplished. The 150 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. occasional detentions in port, moreover, afforded excellent opportunities for studying the inshore flsbery resources and the fishery methods of the region, respecting both of which' subjects important information was obtained. The five banks whose positions were indicated by older surveys, namely, David son, Sannak, Shumagin, Albatross, and Portlock Banks, were more thoroughly exam- ined than were the intervening areas, some of which, however, may, upon further examination, prove to contain fishing-banks of equal value, and not inferior in size to at least the smaller of those mentioned. Good fishing was obtained at nearly all localities where trials were made with hand lines, whether upon defined banks orupon the more level grounds between them, and it is natural to infer that the entire sub- merged plateau from off Unalaska Island to Fairweather ground is one immense fishing-ground, limited upon the outer side only by the abrupt slope, which may be said to begin about the 100-fathom curve. Equally good fishing can not be expected to exist in all parts of this area, some places being more favorable for the feeding and spawning of the cod and halibut than others, and as a rule the larger fish have to be sought for in deeper waters. This important tract can best be compared with the suc- cession of well-known banks which skirt the southern border of the British Provinces on the eastern coast of North America from the Gulf of Maine to beyond Newfound - laud, but its total area is. much less. If considered as a single and continuous bank, however, it has more than twice the area of the fishing-grounds of Bering Sea, previ- ously described in this paper. DESCEIPTIONS OF THE FI8HINO-GR0UNDS. Vicinity of Unalaska. — One line of soundings was made in approaching Kiliuliuk Bay from the south, and another from the same bay in a southeasterly direction to the 100-fathom curve, which was tracetl eastward to Davidson Bank. A third line was also carried eastward along the inner edge of the plateau, from the entrance to Akutan Pass. These soundings were not suflicient to demonstrate the existence of a defined bank in this region, but it was estimated that an area of about 2,000 square geographical miles to the westward of Davidson Bank was suitable for fishing. The width of the plateau here varies from 15 to 24 miles inside of the 100-fathom curve. Beyond this line the bottom drops off very suddenly here as elsewhere along this i)art of the Alaskan coast, a depth of 1,961 fathoms being found within 34 miles of Unalaska. Davidson Bank. — ^This bank was discovered over twenty years ago by Prof. George Davidson, of the U. S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, who made a number of soundings upon it in depths of about 50 fathoms, and found cod abundant in some places. Its outline and surface contour were established by the Albatross with considerable accuracy. The bank lies south of Unimak Island, and extends westward from the neighborhood of the Sannak Islands to about the longitude of the southern entrance to Unimak Pass (about longitude 164° 40' W.). Its eastern end is continuous with the shoal water surrounding the Sannak Islands; its area was estimated at about 1,600 square miles. The greatest width of the submerged plateau off Unimak Island is 4.") to 60 miles. Depths less than 50 fathoms were found over a large part of the bank, 41 fathoms being the shoalest water discovered. Between the shallow area and the islands to the north and northwest of it, depths of 50 to 72 fathoms occur. Sannak Bank. — The shoal water at the eastern end of Davidson Bank was tracetl some distance eastward along the southern edge of the Sannak Islands, and between r studying jcting both Bly, David gbly exam- 011 further T in size to nearly all K8 or upon entire sub- te imiuen8<; ch may be xpected to eeding and have to be ith the suc- Provinces Newfound - 1U0U8 bank, Sea, previ- ig Eiliuliuk direction to A. third line entrance to istence of a !,000 square shing. The thorn curve. Lig this part f Unalaska. 'rof. George f soundingis places. Its onsiderablc rd from the m entrance us with the about 1,60() Island is i'> if the bank, rea and thi> was traced ud between FISHERY INVESTIQATIONS OF THE STBAMER ALBATE08S 161 those islands and the reported positions of Lenard and Anderson Bocks; but still farther eastward on the same lino of soundings (longitude 162° 22' W.) a depth of 60 fathoms was found. Sannak Bank begins immediately to the northeastward of this position, and covers an estimated area of about 1,300 square miles. It lies to the cast and southeast of the islands of the same name, is somewhat elongated in shape, and trends in a general way northeast and southwest. A small area, having depths of 30 to 37 fathoms, occurs near the center of the bank. A depth of 63 fathoms was found between it and the 3annak Islands, and depths of 75 to 82 fathoms exist off the northern edge in the direction of the Sandman Beefs. Between Sannalc Bank and the Shumagin Islands. — In this area about 1,800 square miles, more or lees adapted to fishing, were partly surveyed, the depths ranging ttom 'AS to 74 fathoms. This region is free from the hidden dangers which render Sannak Bank unsafe to those not well acquainted with its surroundings. Shumagin Bank. — This bank lies to the south and southeast of the Shumagin Islands, and its c/uter margin follows approximately the trend of the coast line formed by the adjacent : slands. It has been traced westward to about longitude 159° 52' W., but probably extends farther in that direction. East of the Shumagin Islands it reaches north to the latitude of Big Koniushi Island. Its width inside of the 100- fathom curve varies from 15 to 35 miles, while its area has been estimated at about 1,800 square miles. The depths over a large part of the bank are less than 50 fathoms, the bank not being separated from the islands by deep water. Shumagin Islands to Kadidk Island. — Only a single series of soundings was carried across this wide area to the eastward of Shumagin Bank, with a double line extending from the neighborhood of Light-house Bocks to Mitrofania Bay. These soundings were insufficient to demonstrate the full value of this region, but they indicated the existence of several fishing-banks the outlines and characteristics of which must be left for future investigations. The extent of the area thus partly developed was estimated at about 4,400 square miler-'. Albatross Bank. — This bank lies off the southeastern side of Kadiak Island and extends the entire length of that island as well as in front of the Trinity Islands. At the eastern end it is practically continuous with Portlock Bank. Along some portions of the coast, as in the neighborhood of Bitkalidak Island, the bank is separated from the land by comparatively deep water, while hi other places shoal water intervenes. The 100-fathom curve is distftikt 25 to 46 miles from the land, inside of which limit there is an estimated area of 3,700 square miles. The existence of this bank was predicted by Prof. George Davidson upon the evidence of a few isolated soundings, which were the only ones that had been made previous to the investigations of the steamer Albatross^ from which it has derived its name. Portlock Bank. — This is the largest single bank south of the Alaska peninsula, its area inside of the 100-fathom curve being about 6,800 square miles, or only 1,600 miles less than that of Georges Bank, the second largest of the great banks of the western Atlantic Ocean. It extends northeastward from Eadiak Island, in the direction of Middleton Island, a distance of about 120 miles, and is irregular in shape. Isolated soundings of 68 to 81 fathoms occur near Eadiak Island, at the western end of the bank, but there are no indications of a marked or extensive depression between the bank and the land. From Portlock Bank the soundings were carried to Middleton Island, the position of which was ascertained by a careful series of observations on a clear day. The 152 BULLETIi^ OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. reported position of Pamplona Bocks in lat. 59° 03' N., long. 142° 40' W., was next visited, but only deep water was found within a radius of 20 miles of this locality. Character of the bottom on the banks. — Sand was the predominant material com- posing the bottom on these several banks, a gray sand being the most common. This was combined in many places with pebbles, gravel, or broken shells, which were alsu recorded separately in some localities. Mud rarely occurred upon the banks or any- where inside of the 100-fathom line. Bocks were not found upon Davidson Bank, but on Sannak Bank they compose a large part of the bottom, even in the deeper sound- ings. Bocky patches are numerous on Shumagin and Albatross banks, but were observed only at the extreme western end of Portlock Bank near Kadiak Island. In the region between Sannak Bank and the Shumagin Islands the bottom consists of sand, mud, pebbles, gravel, and rocks, but the last-mentioned material occurs only in the neighborhood of the islands and Sannak Bank. In the corresponding area between the Shumagin Islands and Kadiak Island line sand was most abundant in depths less than 100 fathoms, with the admixture in places of i)ebbles, gravel, and broken shells, and occasional patches of mud and coarse sand. Green and blue mud usually com posed the bottom in depths over 100 fathoms, but sand and rocks were also recorded. OflF ITnalaska sand was tracetl down to a depth of 1228 fathoms, with mud at 2(11 fathoms. Black sand was found in*342 fathoms just oft" Davidson Banlc, while mud occurred in 435 fathoms oil' Sannak Bank, with rocky patches at depths of 2G5 and 404 fathoms. Sand and rocks composed the bottom oft' Shunuigin Bank in 105 to 111) fathoms. Off Albatross and Portlock banks gray sand was discovered i" 298 fathoms and blach sand in 594 fathoms. Muddy bottom occurs, however, in i .aces close U) the 100-fathom line, but in the pocket which indents the southwestern end of the latter bank, with depths of 102 to 166 fathoms, the bottom consists entirely of sand. A rocky spot was found off Albatross Bank in a depth of 485 fathoms. Dredging trials. — The beam trawl and naturalists' dredge were frequently used upon the banks, resulting in the collection of a large amount of natural-history mate- rial. As was to be expected, the assemblage of forms strongly recalls the fauna of the great fishing-banks of eastern North America, and many of the species front these two northern regions a^e closely related io one another, some also probably beiuj,' identico!. The most conspicuous fieatures in the hauls were the fishes, crustacenus, moliu"Rs, aud echinoderms. Edible fishes, crabs, and shrimps were fi'equently taken, the I?et meutionod often in great numbers. The dredging operations were entirely subordinated to those of sounding, as it was considered most important to d^itermine first the outlines and contours of 'he banks, but the results were umple to prove the exceeding richness of the grounds with respect to the lower forms ojT animal life, upon which their value for fishing is mainly dependent. Trials for fish. — The trials for fish on these banks and other offshore grounds were made enti ^y with hand lines. Cod and halibut were the priucipal species taken, and are the only ones to which we need refer in this connection. Six to nine lines were generally used at each trial, which occupied from fifteen minutes to somethinjj^ over an hour each, accoi'ding to circumstances. Salt clams and salmon were chiefiy employed as bait, and pollock, sculpins, and cod occasionally. The depth at whicli the fishing was done ranged from 27 to 84 fathoms, and every variety of bottom observed upon the banks was tried. The trials nmde by the Albatross, as before explained, do not furnish conclusiv*^ results with respect to the average size of the fish inhabiting the banks. It is aaiii FiSHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 153 was next jality. erial com- lon. This were also ts or any- Bank, but )er sound- but were iland. lu iousists of irs only in a between epths less ten shells, aally com recorded, md at 2(il s^hile mud i5 and 404 105 to 11!) >8 fathoms 68 close to end of the y of sand. jntly used tory mate- le fauna of from thesis ibly beiu},' uatacefvus, [tly taken, •e entirely dpiterminc I>rove the [ life, upon unds were iies taken, nine lines somethinfjr ere chietiy at which of bottom ionclusivi^ it is said that the larger cod are least quickly attrao>^ed by the bait, but as time was too valua- ble to permit of long stops at any single position, the records showing the size of fish taken by the Albatross are less gratifying than might otherwise have bieen expected. A length of 28 inches is taken as the standard size for large fish on the Atlantic coast, and all under this size bring a lower price in the markets. Out of 20 captures of cod recorded by the Albatross, the average size of the fish attained this standard in only six instances; it was rarely below 24 inches, and generally above 25 inches. The trials were usually made during the progress of or subsequent to a sounding or dredging haul, the steamer often drifting with the tide and chang'ng the gretuid before the lines had touched bottom. By anchoring, and especially by remaining some time in each position, much better results would undoubtedly have been obtained. Halibut were secured at nearly every station. In four trials made ofif IJnalaska Island, aggregating eighty-five minutes, 22 cod were taken, averaging for the several trials from 21 to 28| inches in length; in one instance, on Davidson Bank, 25 cod averaged 28 inches, and in another, 21 cod, 24^ inches; 18 cod captured on San uak Bank averaged 23^ to 25 inches in length. The cod taken ott'Unga, one of the Shumagin Islands, had an average length of 30 inches; on Shumagin Bank of 26^ inches, and near the Chirikof Island of 23f inches. Sev- eral trials were made on Albatross Bank, two of which were unusually successful. One was off Tugidak, the westernmost of the Trinity Islands, in 37 fathoms, where 47 cod were captured in 38 minutes, and the other off Dangei'ous Cape, Kadiak, in 39 fathoms, where the cai)ture amounted to 69 cod in 50 minutes. At the former locality the fish averaged 28^ inches in length and at the latter 30f inches, in both instances being above the eastern standard. Pair after pair of cod were hauled up in quick succession at each of these localities, and they were seizing the bait as actively at the close of the trials as at the beginning. Only one large catch of cod was made on Portlock Bank, in a depth of 36 fathoms, where 30 individuals, averaging 27 inches in length, were taken in the course of 18 minutes. Bait. — Bait is as readily obtained in this region as in Bering Sea, and the same custom pre\;iils of fitting out with only a small quantity of salted flsh or clams, for which fresh material is substituted as soon as the fishing work actively begins. Miscellaneous observations. — Besides the fishery investigations summarized above, many other important observations were also made bearing more or less directly on the same subject. These have been discussed in full in the reports previously referred to. They relate to the hydrography and meteorology of the region, the availability of iiarbors, etc Corrected positions were obtained for some of the rocks and islands of the Sandman Iteeft, which had been inaccurately located on the published charts. An unsuccessful search was made for two reported dangers south of the Sannak Islands, namely, Lenard and Anderson rocks, without, however, disproving their existence. Mneli valuable information was secured regarding tho ditfereut islands visited and the mainland at Mitrofania Bay. A piu'tlal list of the harbors and anchor- ages situated between Uualaska and Kadiak was compiled, and sailing directions were also prepared for entering some of the more important ports. While approaching the Alaskan coast in May, 1890, a second attempt was made t(» locate the position of Anderson Bock, respecting which Capt. Tanner has reported as follows: The h'mh land of Sauuuk Isluiul \va» Hi^hted ou the uioruing of May 21, and a line of soundings and drodgings, oommenced in :h3 fathonm, waH carried over tlie position assigne 52' W. Run- ning £. 3"^ S. true, 11 miles, we found 207 fathoms; then east true, with intervals of 20 mUes, tlio following depths were found across the Hue of the great submariuo trough which extends along tliu Aleutian Islands, viz: 1,152, 2,197, 2,620, 2,935, and 2,925 fathoms. Increasing the interval to 30 miles, we found 2,776 fathom::*, and a farther distance of 62 miles gave us 2,414 fathoms. The maximum depth wao found in latitude 56" 02' N., longitude 151'' 12' W. It will be observed that while the depths lire less than those found farther '^est, they are at least 800 fathoms greater than the normal, showing that the easterly extension of the depression reaches that point. The linn of soundings was extended to the Queen Charlotte Islands, where a successful haul of the trawl was ma«le in 1,588 fathoms. This depression has therefore now been traced a distance of nearly 600 miles. After compLting the investigations oft' Middleton Island and Pamplona Bocks, in August, 1888, a line of ten sounding and dredging stations was carried southward, nearly parallel with the coast line of Alaska and British Columbia, to the north end of Vancouver Island. At the first six stations the depths ranged from 1,433 to 1,815 fathoms, but they subsequently decreased to 876, 204, 83, and 62 fathoms. The foregoing deep-sea soundings and dredgings, as well as those of lesser depth, made to determine the contour of the bottom along the margin of the continental platform of ' :;e coast of the Alaska Peninsula, are represented on U. S. Coast and Geodetic S'tivey charts S and T, Practi( of southeai latitudes si the southei ligations o iuland pas several nu inspecting on July 8, Tongass, I Bay, Port; caimeries ^ trawl and feather Tvas bre Irequciit i>rizon for 10 yala ; neithttr [wi-existence fhe evidence plined to tlie re gradually Peninsula Irtance for lEAN, OFF egun in a 18 the first < ascertain ard L-y tlie ondings of predicttid be Alaska tire lengtli ra off Attn developed mined, was the center extremity aes, with a adings was rora series. 52' W. Rnn- !0 miles, the ids along the tltoSOniih's, (imam dept b le deptiiB are aal, showing ras eztenddd tthoms. ' miles. I Bocks, in louthward, north end 33 to 1,815 jser deptli, oritineutal Uoast and FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA. 155 Practically nothing has yet been done toward investigating the fishery resources of southeastern Alaska, all of the time suitable and available for* work in northern latitudes since the Albatrons arrived in the North Pacific Ocean having been spent oflf the southern coast of the Alaska Peninsula, in Bering Sea, and in the sealing inves- tigations of 1891 and 1892. During July, 1889, however, a trip was made through the iuland passages of the southeastern part of the territory as far as Juneau, with several members of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, who were desirous of inspecting the principal lodian settlements of that region. The steamer left Tacoma on July 8, and returned on the 28th of the same month. Stops were made at Fort Tongass, Port Chester, Karta Bay, Fort Wrangell, Sitka, Pavloff Harbor, Hoonyah Bay, Portage Bay, Chilkat, and Juneau. Several important fishing stations and caimeries were visited, and some Investigations were also made by means of the beam trawl and other kinds of fishing apparatus. BRITISH COLUMBIA. On the voyages to and from Alaska the Albatross has generally made use of the inland passage inside of Vancouver Island; she has also often coaled at Departure Bay, and has made occasional visits to Victoria and to other parts of the same island. Opportunities have therefore been afibrded, from time to time, to observe the fishery resources of the British Columbian coast, but comparatively little information has been obtained in regard to them. This subject will be discussed in part in connection with the State of Washington, the following notes referring mainly to the inland passage: Departure Bay. — The results of collecting work during July 10 and 11, 1888, together with notes upon the fisheries, are recorded in the Bulletin for the same year, pj). 51, 62. According to Mr. Alexander, the white fishermen of Departure Bay are exclusively Italians, whose chief occupation during the winter months is the capture of dogfish for their oil. Herring are also very abundant, but they are taken only in small qiiantities for the benefit of the local trade. The salmon fishery is likewise very limited, being followed by only a few Indians to supply their own wants and the small market at Nanaimo. Cod sometimes enter the bay, but they are said to be more plentiful in deeper water outside. They are described as small fish, averaging about 5 pounds each in weight, and are not often fished for.- A visit to the same plaee, beginning May 25, 1889, is thus described by Mr. Alexander; Daring the stay in port I was occupied in obtaining additional information respecting the fish- eries of the region. A visit was paid to Mr, Vozza, an Italian fisherman, who conducts a small fishing business on one of the islands in the bay. He said that the past winti^r had been exceptionally mild and consequently the fishing for dogfish much poorer than usual. These fish would visit the bay in large numbers during cold spells, but every time the weather moderated they immediately sought (U'oper water. It is not probable that the temperature had a direct effect upon the dogfish, but it iiiliiienced the presence of the herring on which they feed. The herring usually resort to Departure Buy during the winter in incredible numbers, and the dogfish follow tbem about from place to place. Several thousand herring were smoked by Mr. Vozza during the preceding winter, but he found no d( mand for them in Nanaimo or elsewhere. Three thousand gallons of dogfish oil were put up between December 1 and the last of March by two men. The usual yield for the same time is about 5,000 gallons. Mr. Vozza says that the spring run of salmon strikes the Fraser River in March and remains there until the latter part of June. In .July the suk-kegh salmon enter the river and con- tinue in it imtil sometime in August, after which the spring salmon return and are pleutiful for three I p 156 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 1 s 1 1 f^ ' or four weeka, A form called " cohoes " by the natives predominates during September, and in Octo- ber there are several species running. There are now fifteen canneries on the river, three having been built during the preient aensoD, The sizes of mesh in the salmon nets are 6, 7}, and 8 inches. The 6-inch mesh is used for the suk-kegh salmon. About 2,000 men aro engaged in the fishery this vear. On May 13, 1890, while on the passage to Alaska, Oapt. Tanner notes tliat '* schools of herring were seen in tho Gulf of Georgia during the evening, pursued by sharks and porpoises. Among the latter several wei-e observed with peculiar markings, the head, back, and sides being black or very dark; belly, tips of flns, and tip of tail, white." Alert Bay. — Stops were made at this place both going and coming in 18vS8. There is an Indian village here and also a salmon cannery, where, up to September, 46,000 cases had been put up. Salmon are sometimes very abundant about the bay and neighboring islands, being chiefly fished for by means of seines and gill nets. A large number of suk-kegh salmon ( 0. nerka) were observed at the cannery on July 11, The Indians of the village are mainly occupied in fishing for the cannery. Fort Rupert. — The Albatross stopped at Fort Rupert, or Beaver Harbor, on July 12, 1888, for the purpose of obtaining a supply of clams for use as bait on the Alaskan fishing-grounds. Clams are unusually plentiful in this locality, and with a force of fifteen sailors 10 bushels were secured during a single low tide. Three species are said to occur here in about equal abundance. The large gaper clam {Schizothwrm] burrows deeply in the bottom at very low tide level, while the Saxidomus nuttaUii (quahog) and the smaller Tapes staminea are usually only G or 8 inches below the surface, and may be found anywhere between high and low water mark. Duriiij; unfavorable seasons for salmon the cannery at Alert Bay has preserved clams, obtain ing its supplies from Fort Rupert. Dredgings. — On the way south through the inland passage, in September, 1888, dredging stations were made in Queen Charlotte Sound, off the southern entrance to Goletas Channel, depth 238 fathoms (No. 2862) ; and in the Gult of Georgia, off Fraser River, depth 67 fathoms (No. 2863). Black-cod. — Much information was obtained at Victoria respecting the black-cod and the attempts made to establish a regular fishery for this highly prized species. References to this subject will be found in the several reports of Capt. Tanner and Mr, Alexander. lu October, 1888, the schooner Theresa, of Victoria, completed a 8ucc('s,s ful trip, having secured about 3,000 of these fish, many of which weighed from 20 to 25 pounds apiece. They were taken principally in a depth of 210 fathonib, about 5 miles off the Queen Charlotte Islands, trawl lines being used for their capture. A part of ' 'le cargo, however, was purchased from the Indians. According to Mr. Alexander, se great depth at which these fish generally live, 150 tx) 200 fathoms, has undoubtedly \.d much to do with hindering the establishment of this industry, as the nortb- w; item coast fishermen had never been obliged to go beyond a depth of 50 fathoms tbr their cod and halibut, and are totally unused to deep-water fishing. In June, 1889, Mr. Alexander wrote that he had received information of only one trip subsequent to that mentioned above off the coast of the Queen Charlotte Islands, The fish were caught in the vicinity of Gold Harbor, in a depth of 250 fathoms. He takes exception to the customary manner of dressing the fish, by splitting them down the back and leaving the head and backbone attached, which he thinks causes thi'ni to rust very quickly, and considers that if prepared like the true cod, or even mess mackerel, they would be in much greater demand. The coa boundary lir reaching, th region by th intervals un however, soi As in tl the contour previously I area.s in mo: the Alhatroi it intervals serving to ( edge. As fathoms an the Alhatro fishery inte would be ( indicated t closely tog< conditions Thewi the coast. Johnson, 2 distance is of the Coll Lookout 11 width of 3 south of w miles at O The SI at about 3 for the co£ The g submarint depressioi of the Sti coast froB except in olevatiouf its greate there beii the soun( outward. , ir, and in Oi-to- re lent season. • the Hiik-kegh notes that ng, parsiied ith peculiar of fins, and ing in iaS8. September, out the bay gill nets. A on July 11. bor, on July tlie Alaskan ill a force of species are hhizothwrm] mm nuttaUii 18 below tbe rk. Dui'ii)<; anis, obtain ;ember, 1888, I entrance to (a, off Fraser ie black-cod ized species, iner and Mr, ed a success i-om 20 til L'."» bout 6 miles A part of Alexander, indoubtcdly 1 the noi'tlj 50 fathoms of only one tte Islands. thorns, fie them down auses them even mess FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OK THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. WASHINGTON AND OREGON. 157 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS. The coasts of Washington and Oregon, from Cape Flattery to the California Muiidary line, have a total length, due north and south, of about 383 nautical miles, reivehing, therefore, through nearly 6^ degrees of latitude. The examination of this region by the steamer Albatross was begun in September, 1888, and was continued at intervals untiHu October, 188!), when it was practically completed. Since that time, however, some additional observations have been made. As in the Alaskan region, it has been necessary to spend most time in determining the contour and general characteristics of the bottom, as very few soundings had previously been made beyond a depth of 50 fathoms, and only comparatively limited areas in more shadow water had been surveyed. The regular hydrographic work of the Albatross consisted in running parallel lines of soundings seaward from the coast, jt intervals of 6 to 10 miles, and generally into depths of 200 or more fathoms, thus serving to develop the entire width of the continental platform to its abrupt outer edge. As the bottom fishing-grounds are mostly confined within a depth of 100 fatlioms and rarely extend beyond a depth of 200 fathoms, the survey made here by the Albatross has been sufficiently comprehensive to meet all the requirements of the fishery interests in that respect, although in some places more detailed examinations would be desirable. Wherever the nature of the bottom or previous information indicated the occurrence of fishing-grounds, the sounding stations were run more closely together, and the amount of time spent in determining their contours and conditions was proportioned to their importance. The width of the centinental platform varies considerably at different places along the coast. At Cape Flattery the 100-fathom line is 40 miles from shore, while at Cape Johnson, 26 miles further south, it is distant only 18 miles. Off Grays Harbor the distanCiC is 30 miles; off Willapa Bay, 20 miles; off Cape Disappointment, at the mouth of the Columbia River, 15 miles; at Tillamook Rock, Oregon, 27 miles, and at Cape Lookout 11 miles. From this point the platform gradually broadens out, attaining a width of 35 miles off the Siuslaw River, in the region of Ileceta Bank, immediately south of which it is abruptly constricted to about 14 miles, becoming reduced to 7 miles at Orford Reef and 12 miles at the California State line. The superficial area of this platform within the 100-fathom line has been estimated at about 3,700 square miles for the coast of Washington and about 4,750 square miles for the coast of Oregon. The soundings oft' Cape Flattery were irregular and suggest the existence of submarine ridges lying parallel with the coast. A very elongate crescent-shaped de])re88ion, having dep;'js of 100 to 200 fathoms, extends southward from the mouth of tlie Strait of Fuca a distance of some 20 or more miles, being distant from the coast from 8 to 12 miles. Thence to Yaquina Head, Oregon, the slope is regular, except in the region of the rocky bank off Grays Harbor and Willapa Bay, where elevations of a few fathoms were found. Below Yaquina Head the platform attiiins its greatest width south of Cape Flattery the somewhat triangular area which occurs there being occupied at its southwestern extremity by Heceta Bank. Further south the soundings are regular, but the depths increase more rapidly from the shore outward. The bottom consists generally of fine sand in the shallower water, changing 158 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. iS to mad farther offshore, although sand was also foand at times in considerable depths, On the fishing-banks its character is variable, as described elsewhere. Dredging and fishing trials were made at freqaent intervals down the coast as far as Orford Beef, Oregon, leaving a distance of about 48 miles between that place and the State line, over which no fishery investigations have yet been made; but the continental platform is there very narrow. There are very few defined flshing-groands on the coasts of Washington and Oregon, and those which occur are of small extent. The largest and most important one lies about 11 miles northwesterly from Gape Flattery, and has a total area of about 1,100 square miles. Another, covering only about 110 square miles, is situated oft' the coast between Grays Harbor and Willapa Bay. A still smaller bank or rocky patoh is located sibout 19 miles southwesterly firom Yaqnina Head; its area has beeu estimated at 40 square miles. Heceta Bank, lying off the Siuslaw Biver, is next in importance to Flattery Bank, having an extent of about 600 square miles. The small extent of the banks, however, does not indicate a scarcity of fishery resources, as fishes of excellent food quality were found to be pretty generally (lis tributed over the surface of the platform throughout a large part of the region, as described further on. In the immediate vicinity' of exposed rocks lying near the coast, which are inhabited by sea lions, fishes were noticed to be rare if not entirely absent in most cases, Orford Reef, however, presenting a notable exception in this respect. The halibut and the true cod {OaduJi morrkua) are the species which have been most eagerly sought for by the fishermen along these coasts, but no traces of the latter were discovered by the Albatro88. The halibut, however, ranges as far south as Monterey, Cal., although it has nowhere been found sufficiently abundant to afl'ord the basis for a special fishery except on Flattery Bank. Scattering specimens were taken by the Albatross off Flattery Bocks, off Tillamook Bock, and on Heceta Bank, but the resources of this bank have not yet been fully tested. The species has also been recorded fh)m off Cape Mendocino. The fact that the Indians south of Cape Flattery do not include the halibut among their supplies of food may be regarded as additional evidence that this fish will not be found in any numbers, near the shore at least, within this region. Several species of rockfish {8eba»toJ«s) were abundant upon the banks as well as iipon the sandy bottom of the platform. Flounders were taken everywhere, but were most plentiful between depths of 50 and 100 fathoms. A number of species were discovered, some of which are of excellent food quality, and they will offer strong inducements for the introduction of beam-trawl fishing whenever a market has been established for them. Cultus-cod {Ophiodon elongattu) were obtained on all the banks and on Orford Beef. Black-cod (Anoplopoma fimbria) of good size inhabit the deoi)er waters, while smaller individuals, together with the ling or Pacific whiting {Merlucim productus), occur in moderate depths. Large red edibles hrimps were also frequently captured in the beam trawl; they are distributed through a considerable depth of water. The principal obstacle at present to the development of extensive sea fisheries on the outer coast of Washington and the coast of Oregon is the lack of markets for dis- IK)sing of the cateh. The scarcity of good harbors is also a very serious inconven- ience, and as those which do exist are encumbered with bars, they can be entered in bad weather only with much difficulty. Although gales are of rare occurrence duiiug the pr( only d( FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER VLBATROSS. 159 the summer, still the coast winds blow constantly from the northward, maintaining a boisterous sea and strong currents. Duilug the winter southeasterly storms are frequent. Lilt of the more abundant food-fiahee taken by the Albatroia on the coasts of fVashington and Oregon with the beam tratol and hand lines. [Fropitrm] by Cbarloa H. TownBond.] Hippoglo»iH» hippoglossue, Halibut. Alheresthes slomias, H»libiit-ll(iiiiid«r. Microstomus pac^fioiu, Deep-sea solo. (ilyptocephalus zackirue, Long-fiiined solo. ('ithariohihys sordidue, Flounder. llippofllossoides jordani, Flounder. HippoglosBoides exilia, Flounder. Psettichthyi melanoslictiis, Flounder. Parophrys vetulus, Flounder. Isopsetta itolepie, Flounder. Lepidopsetta bilineata, Flounder. Sehoilodes ruber, Red rockfish. Sebastodes pinniger, Orange rockflsh. Sebaslodes ftavidiis, Yellow-tail rockfiab. Sebastodes rosaceus, Rockflsh. Sebastodes clongatus, KocktiBh. Sebastodes melanops, Rockflsh. Sebastodes pauvispinis, Rockflsh. Sebastodes nebulosiis, Rockflsh, and other smaller Bpeci<-B of the same genus. Anoplopoma fimbr'ui, Black-cod. Ophiodon clongatus, Cultus-cod. Merlndus productus, Whiting. Miorogadus proximus, Toiucod. Large rays and skates, of several edible species, were common. Anchovies and smelts were taken in the beam trawl when used near shore, while in the deeper water beyond the margin of the platform theredflsh {Sebastolobua) was dredged in abundance. The flesh of the last-named species is rather soft, but edible. WASHINGTON. The Straitg of Juan de Fuca andPuget Sound. — Only incidental observations have been made in these waters, either while passing through or while in port. Brief accounts of the fisheries in the vicinity of Seattle, Port Townsend, and Victoria will be found in the Fish Commission Report and Bulletin for 1888 (F. O. 7, 8, 16). The beam trawl has been used at only four stations, two (Nos. 2864, 2865) in the extreme eastern part of the straits, and two (Nos. 3067 and 3068) off Dwamish Head, near the city of Seattle. The tbrmer trials were made on September 6, 1888, in depths of 40 and 48 fathoms, but no fishes of economic value were secured. The latter were made on June 8, 1889, in depths of 82 and 135 fathoms, the bottom consisting of green nmd. Among the specimens obtained were three species of flounders, hake, skates, several ratfishes (Ohimcera), shrimps, starfishes, and sea-anemones, but not many of any kind. In the evening of September 24, 1888, the halibut trawl was set off Kalhsla Point, outside of Neah Bay, the inner end being in 20, the outer in 25 fathoms. It was allowed to remain down until the following morning, but on being hauled 24 dogfish and 2 skates compriseil the entire catch. Halibut and black-cod are sometimes taken in close proximity to Neah Bay earlier in the season. The latter species is never abundant there, but during some years it is sufficiently common in the spring to t'lu-nish the Indians of the vicinity with a considerable supply of food. On October 19, following, a cod trawl was set for half an hour in a depth of 101 fathoms, off' Eace Island, at the southeastern end of Vancouver Island, for the purpose of discovering ' the presence of beshowe, or black-cod, which had been reported to occur there, but only dogfish were captured, about 40 specimens in all. 160 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMIftSION. Mr. Alexander states that — There are a few Hshermen abunt Port TowtiHond and Victoria who Hsh for halibut and dosflsh the greater part of the year. Ont« of those, Mr. iHauc liulcuian, with whom I convemiMl, stated that ho did not think that halibut were over abundant enough in the Straits of Fuoa to warrant vessels of lar^u size engaging in the business. In April, 1888, Mr. Bakman secured in different parts of the straits 4, .500 pounds of halibut, for whicli he received from 2 to 3 oeuts per pound. These spring lish have been very aoarce, and not enough have been caught to pay expenses. During the winter of 1888-89, three men were fishing for cod in Puget Sound witli gill nets and trawl lines. No large quantities of these tish were caught, but many flounders and a few halibut were taken oii the trawls. The cod are obtained in all depths from 6 fathoms downwards, the deepest water in which gill nets have been set being 150 fathoms, oft' Quartermaster Harbor, near the head of Puget Sound. In this region both the Oadun morrhua and the cultus-uod {Ophiodon elomjavus) are known under the name of cod. Flattery Bank. — This bank, which constitutes one of the most important fishing- grounds on the Pacific coast south of Britisli Cclunibia, is located to tlie northwest- ward of Cape Flattery, on the northern side of the deep-water area (from 100 to 200 fathoms) at the entrance to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It is mostly confined within the 50-fathom curve adjacent to tlie coast of Vancouver Island, and lies directly oti" the entrance to Nitinat Lake, but it is also continuous with that part of the continental platform inside of the lOOfathom curve which skirts the outeir coast of Washington, although depths of nearly 100 fathoms intervene. Flattery Bank has long becii resorted to by the Indians, but, while large quantities of halibut and of other fishes have been taken from it in times past, the first extensive commercial fishery there was attempted about 1888. As the hydrography of the bank had previously been determined with sufficient accuracy for fldhery purposes, the investigations of the Albatross were limited for tlic most part to dredging and fishing trials. The first visit was paid to it in September, 1888, the inquiries being begun on the southeastern part of the bank, nearest Cape Flattery, and being carried thence to the neighborhood of Barclay Sound, Vancouver Island. The second and last examination was mside in June, 1889. The entire area of the bank has not yet been surveyed and its extxeme limits are, therefore, still unknown. The depths may be said to range from 27 to about 75 fathoms. The bottom varies exceedingly in character, consisting of rocks, sand, mud, and shells, and in some. places being very rough and irregular. It supports a very rich fauna, which fits it especially as a feeding-ground for fishes. Capt. Tanner assigns to this bank a total areaof about 1, 100 square miles. The least depth of water, 27 fathoms, was found at its southeasteni extremity, 11 miles W. by N. (magnetic) from Cape Flattery light-house. Halibut occur most abundantly on the same part of the bank, over an exceedingly rough, rocky bt)ttom, having an area of about 35 square miles. From early in the spring until the middle of June this species can be obtained on Flattery Bank in paying quantities, but later in the season dogfish and sharks strike in, driving a majority of the edible fishes away. The dredging and fishing tristls by the Albatross were as follows : Three dredging stations (2873 to 2875, inclusive) were made on September 24, 188.H, at distances of 10 m 12 miles northwesterly from Cape Flattery, the depths rangin;; from 27 to 40 fathoms, and all varieties of bottom being found. The first trial was with the beam trawl in 40 fathoms, but it caught upon the bottom and was badl\ ever. FI8HEUY INVUUTIUATIONS UF TUU BTUAMEU ALBATKUBB. 161 doKflBh the thut ho (lid leU of lar^u the 8traif.s K iish havt* oiindwitli but in.iiiy lied in all e been sc^t III tills re known lit fishing- lorthwest- 100 to 200 ed witliiii irectly off ontinentii! iHliingtoii, long bei'ii ;her flslios there was sufficient bed for tlic eptember, rest Cajie ''ancouvor utire area Bfore, still he bottom id in sonio lich fits it The least les W. by lantly on g an area June this he season 1-24, 1888, 3 ranging trial was •^as badlv vrrecked. The tangles were then used successively in depths of 27 and 40 fathoms, Willi g(M)d results. A trawl line, baited with salt salmon and red rocktish, was sot for tliree hours in about the same position on rocky bottom, deiith 40 fathoms, the catcli consisting of 4 halibut, 2 sharks, 4 red rocktish, and 2 starfishes. The average weight of the halibut was 47^ pounds; thrt'o were females and one was a male; they were iiil white. It is said that gray halibut are seldom found in these waters. On Septemlier 25 work was continued in nearly the same locality as on the previous day. The beam trawl was cast at station No. 2876, 2 or 3 miles northeasterly from stations 2H7<{ to 2875, and the trawl line, baited with salmon, red rocktish, and iiesh halibut, was set at the same time. Vho depth was 59 fathoms, and the bottom con- sisted of black sand and mud. The beam trawl dragged but a few yards, when it caught on a rocky ]>atch, pai'ted the bridle stops, and came up tail first. It was, how- over, a siuicessful haul, and many specimens were found in the net. The tangles were 8iib8e<|uently hauled over the same ground (station 2877) with good results, giving evidence of the riclmess of the bottom. The towing net, which was frequently used ill this region, however, gave very little evidence of surface life. The halibut trawl remained on the bottom tliree hours, and the catch consisted of 2 liaiibut, 1 red rock- tish, and 9 dogfish, the average weight of the halibut being 55 iiounds. On tlie afternoon of September 25 the trawl line was set and the dredge lowered in 06 fathoms, gravel and pebbles (station 2878), S. 48° W., 16 miles from Cape lieale light-house, on the southern side of the entrance to Barclay Sound, Vancouver Island. The wmtents of the dredge, consisting for the most part of small mollusks, did not besvr evidence of a rich bottom. The same bait was used uixm the trawl line as in the previous trial, and the capture after two hours' time consiste*! of 2 black-cod, 15 dogfish, 2 common sharks, and 2 ground sharks. Only a small quantity of surface organisms was taken in the tow nets. Early on the following day two dredge hauls were made at stations 2879 and 2880, 27 miles N. 79° W. from Cape Beale, in 34 fathoms, rooky bottom, with about the same results as at station 2878, the bottom not being rich so far as the contents of the dredge indicated. A tiial with the halibut trawl in the same locality, lasting about three hours, afforded 1 halibut weighing 25 pounds, 2 sharks, and 3 dogfish. At station 2881, in thw same neighborhood, but much nearer the coast. Capo Beale bearing S. 26° E., distant 26 miles, the dredge was cast in 24 fathoms, on a rough bottom, with fine gray sand in places. The results were not favorable to good fishing. The trawl line set in the same xxisition took 1 halibut weighing 15 pounds, 5 dogfish, 1 shark, and 1 skpte. The trawl, when it came up, was covered with " slime," which was contrary to expectations, as the dredging which preceded it indicated clean bottom. September 27 and 28 were spent in Barclay Sound, and the following day a skate of halibut trawl was set in 00 fathoms of water, sandy and rocky bottom, 22 miles S. 14^ B. from Cape Beale. The trawl was kept down about two hours, with the result of capturing 16 dogfish, 1 beshowe or black-cod, 1 cultus-cod, and 3 small halibut. Tiiis spot would probably be a good one for halibut earlier in the season, before the dogfish set in, and is convenient to the Straits of Fuca. It requires examination in the spring or winter to determine its merits. On June 14, 1889, the trawl line was set on Flattery Bank, in a depth of 31 fath- oms. Cape Flattery bearing E. by 8. i S. and Cape Beale NW. by W. The bottom consisted of gravel, broken shells, and rocks. The tide was running ebb, but not F. C. B., 1892—11 r U ,1 168 BULLETIN OP THK UNITKD STATES FIHIl COMMISSION. HtroDK) imd a doime fof; prevailed. Tlio tniwl wan left down aboat throe liourH, at tlio end uf which time tlu> following; HhIi wcro taken from the hooks : 8 halibut, avir uging 85 poundH each; 10 red nK'ktiHh, averaging 10 pounds euf the coast, stablish an be decided, obstacles in , tending to Is; and yet, ibut seasou, Herat hand; sh; herring, ell-e(iuip])od iitly arrived I the spring ittery Bank, The stock 8 were hiKh, lie price mhh tie obtained FI8IIEKY INVESTIQATIONS OF THE 8TEAMKK ALUATU08S. 163 one fare of rA),(H)0 pounds of halibut on Flattery Hank; the flsh were lauded at Ta- cuiria. But little or n<»thing was realized from the trip. In the fall of 1888, several fishermen, well equip|>ed with dories, trawls, etc., es- tulilished a camp in the vicinity of Neah Bay, and hslied continuously throughout the following winter on Flattery Bank and directly off" Cape Flattery. Mr. Moor, one of the members of this party, who (;ame to the Paciflc coast in the schooner Mollie AdoniH, has furnished a synopsis of the winter fishing. They first set trawls on November 23, 1888, and from tliat date up to January 7, 1889, sutember. He thinks that halibut are iiltiindant from March to June, but they do not occur in the incredible numbers which have been reported from time to time. In November, 1888, Capt. Silas Calder, then of the Mollie Adamn, made a series of trials for halibut on Flattery Bank, without, however, securing a single specimen. He is of the opinion that vessels could obtain good fares during a few months of each year, and might find the business profitable if there were a market for the catch. The yaciht C. H. Whit^, of San Francisco, chartered in the fall of 1888 by Messrs. liouch and Johnson, of Seattle, obtained 100,000 {munds of halibut during three trips to the same bank. About 60,000 pounds were shipped fresh to New York, the re- mainder being smoked. Several interesting trips at different seasons of the year have also been made farther north than Flattery Bank. While the results accomplished in that n September 20 and 24, 1888, The first was at station No. 2866, 19 miles S., 40° W., frou; Flattery light-house, 171 fathoms, gray sand; the second at station 2867, 17 niiles S., 23° W., from Flattery light, 37 fatlioms, fine sand; the third at station 2872, 8 miles S., 40° W., from the same liglit house, 38 fathoms, gray sand. Near station 2867 the halibut trawl, baited with salt salmon, was set at 3 p. m, and hauled at 5 p. m., securing 8 sharks, 2 dogfish, and 1 halibut, the latter weighing 140 rjounds and measuring 5 feet 9 inches in length. A few hand lines were also tried in the same locality, 1 red rockfish and several dogfish being taken by that means. A skate of halibut trawl, baited with salt salmon and red rockfish, was likewise set in the position of dredging station 2872, but only 2 sharks and 1 starfish were obtained. In the spring the Indians fish for halibut in this locality, but no satisfactory inforiiia- tion regarding their abu.idance there has yet been obtained. On September 21, 1888, the beam trawl was used at station No. 2868, off Cape Johnson, and stsitiou No. 2869, off Dc truction Island, in depths of 31 and 32 fathoms, respectively, the bottom consisting of sand. At the former station touicod, flounders, red rockfish, and 1 bhuik-cod were taken in the beam trawl. A trawl line, baited with salt salmon and clams, was set in the same position, but very few of the baits were disturbed, only 2 red rockfish, 3 dogfish, and 1 skate being captured. Trial lines from the deck of tl,'o steamer afforded no results. The following June dredging operations were conducted off this part of the con t, to the west ami southwest of Destruction Island, in depths of 178 to 877 fatho' is. That work has been reported upon by Capt. Tanner as follows: Passiuf^ Cape Flattery wo steamed 3ffshoro until 7:4B a.m., on Jurm 28, 1889, when the trawl "M oaat in 760 t'atL..inB (fltatiiin 3060), (jrunn mud. A lieuvy woHterly swell causod t\n\ ship totuiiiitlc about BO much that it waa difiluittt tu carry ou our work, and hually resulted in parting the bmlle P18HEUY INVESTiaATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 165 jary to sliift le flsh aver it uone were ■ and ffittie, uch damage Jth, as would t Town send, uver Island, weeks, and ing the coast (1 were com Dredging lent periods. \, from Cape 1 at intervals I cape. The tJioms at the mnks ill the 7 of Flattery 8, The first 171 fathoms, «ry light, 37 6 same liglit- set at 3 p. m. ter weighing 3re also tried that meaus. kewise set iu ere obtained, iory infornia m, off Cape I 32 fathoms, )d, flounders, I line, baited ' of the baits , Trial linos of the con I, 877 fatho' is. 1 the trawl ^^as ship to tiiiiiiilc tiug thu bruik stops, causing tLe net to come up tail first, and praotically empty. There were, however, a few ; en- nutiilos, Btariish, holothuriaus, etc., adhering to the net. Four more hauls were made during the Jay in (!36, 685, 584, and 477 fathoms (stations 3070, 3071, 3072, 3073), the bottom being uniformly of green mild. The wind and sea increased with heavy rain squalls, making it necessary to use the small trawl the latter part of the day, the weather being too boisterous to handle the large one with safety. The results were very satisfactory and, it being practically new ground, many unrecognized specimens wore taken besides others that were familiar, among them being several species of founders, deep. 8ca sole, deep-water redtish (Svhattolobuii), red rocklisli, macruri, ctiimicras, and hagfish. Among the invertebrates were shrimp, hermit-crabs, annelids, sea-urchins, holothuriaus, ophiurans, starfis)' sea- Aiiomones, crinoids, penuatulas, etc. The weather was partially overcast on the 29th, with moderate winds and heavy westerly swells. Three hauls of the trawl were made in 877, 859, and 178 fathoms (stations 3074, 3075, .3076), green mud, with excellent results. Among the flslies recognized were the deep-water redtish, tlounders, solo, red rockfish, and a single specimen of black-cod taken in 8,59 fathoms, the greatest (>epth in which tbey have been found. Among the invert U)ratns were holothiirians, sea-urchins, stf-i-fish, opbiiir.ins. 8('ii-aneniones, pennatulns, hermit-crabs, shrimp, annelids, an octopus, etc., the g, '•at»'3t amount of life being found in about 200 fathoms. The stations occui)ied on the 28th and 29th extended our explorations from the shore to 877 fathoms, and gave us a very good representation of the marine fauna occupying the various depths. A notable feature in tho hauls made during the trip wiis tlio absence of mud in the trawl net when it rciiched the surface, although soft green mud was reported at every station. This would seem to indicate that the bottom was composed largc'ly of very fine sand, rather than mud, or at lna«t the sl)Hence of clay. A few whales were seen, but with this exception no su face lifi* was observed. The lilai'k-footed albatross or gony and an occasional petrel were the only birds seen, except near the land, where gulls \h:tc plentiful. Beam trawl 8tations No. 3343 (516 fathoms) and 3344 (831 fathoms) were also made in the same region as the above, on September 21, 1890. Grays Harbor to the (Columbia River. — A report of Indian origin having indicated the existence of a small bank off" tlie coast of Washington between Grays Harbor and Willapa Bay, a careful examination of the region was made during the progress of the hydrographic work iu September and October, 1888, Such a bank was dis< ov- eivd and its principal features have been defined ; it has been named Willai»a Bank. It i8 about 20 miles ?ong, northeast and southwest, Jtud about 12 miles in extreme width, having a total area of about 110 square miles. Its eastern extremity, on which there is 42 fathoms, rocky bottom, lies 16 miles south weKu (magnetic) from Pohit Chehalis, on the southern side of the entrance to Grays Harbor, and 23 miles W. by S. (magnetic) from Toke Point lig Jt-house at the northern end oi' Willapa Bay. The soundings are quite regular, but the I ^tt*)!!! alternates in character between rocks, gray sand, and mud. The dredgings and trials for fish on this bank proved more suc(!e8sful than any ])reviously made south of Cape Flattery, and tLireis little doubt that at the i>roper season good fishing would be found in tiiis localiiv. Oil September 23, 1888, the beam trawl was used at station 2870, on the southern edije of the bank, in 58 fathoms, rocky bottom. A very rich fauna was discovered, bhickcod, red rockfish, tomcod, and shrimps also boiiig taken by thir n^eans. On a trawl line set in the same position 10 red rockfish, 2 black-cod. and 4 sharks were captured. Three red rockfish were likewise caught with hand lines from the ship at tlie same time. The last-mentioned species was the most abundant one at this .season. Hand lines were sub.sequently tried for 15 uiinutos about 104 miles <»ff" Cape Shoal- water, but without success. On the same day station 2P71, with the beam trawl, was made about 45 miles off' the entrance to Grays Harbor, in a dcpfc^i of 559 fathoms, browu ooze, with the result of obtaining many deep-water forms. ■ Si f 166 BULLETIN OP THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. Tho investigations on this bank were resumed on June 7, 1889, the day being spent in dredging and fishing trials. Stations 3046, 3047, and 3048, in 48 to 52 fathoms, wore made with the beam trawl, the bottom consisting of rocks in some places and in others of fine gray sand, and flounders, tomcod, and shrimps being thus secured. A trawl line was set for two hours at the last station, one end being in 52 fathoms, the other extending into 60 fathoms, but on being hauled only 4 red rockfish, 4 dogfish, 2 skates, and several starfish were found upon che hooks. The tfde was running too strong to employ hand lines successfully from the small boat, but a few rockfish were taken by that means from the steamer. Beam-trawl 8vation3049 was in 43 fathoms, tine sandy bottom, about 13 miles to the southwestward of the entrance to Willapa Bay, the catch comprising flounders, tomcod, and shrimps, as on the bank farther north. On June 13, 1889, the beam trawl (No. 3066) wao again used about 7 miles south of the above station in a depth of 55 fathoms, sand and mud, flounders and skates being the only fishes taken. OBEGON. Columbia River. — ^The fisheries of the Columbia River have been discussed in the Fish Oommission Report and Bulletin for 1888 (F. C. 7, 8, 16). Off the Columbia River. — The region off the mouth of the Columbia River was examined chiefly in October, 1888. On the 13th of that month three nearly parallel lines of soundings were made between the latitude of Cape Disappointment and that of Tillamook Rock, extending ottshore distances of 32 to 36 miles, and into au extreme depth of 601 fathoms. The northernmost line, which was directly off the mouth of the Columbia River, showed depths two or three times greater than in corre spouding positions on adjacent lines 7 or 8 miles distant, both to the north and soutb, the submarine trough thus indicated being pr. '^ably the ancient bed of the Cohia; bia River. Trials were mad?} with the beam trawl and trawl line at station No. 2882, about 27 miles off the mouth of the river, in a depth of 68 fathoms, gray sandy bot- t^"... By means of tho former a number of flounders, red rockfish, and black-cod were secuisd, but only 1 black-cod and 4 dogfish were taken upon the latter. Southwest of Cape Disappointment station 3065 was occupied on June 13, 1889, the depth being 27 fathoms and the bottom consisting of fine black sand. Flounders, tomcod, and shrimps were captured in the beam trawl, but nothing was obtained by the use of hand lines. The existence of fishing-banks from 50 to 60 miles off" this part of the coast, which had been reported in Asto/ia, wa« entirely disproved by the investigations of the Albatross, very deep water occu : ring in the positions indicated. It is iwssible tliat this rumor had its origin in Heceta Bank, which, however, is located very mi cb farther south. According to Capt. Tanner : The sea fisheriea off the Columbia wore comraencoil a few years since with a email schonpi which operated a 40-foot beam trawl over the ground between Cape Disappointment and Shoalwuttr Bay. Tho vessel being found unfit for the purpose, the xteamer Dolphin was built and mj, . u ' Lad slio been- able to market her lish promptly the venture would have turnsd out pr< ..caoiy. i !: TariouH fish taken by the Dolphin were classified us solo, iloutidfrs, hake, cod, rock-cot', and hH.!ii>! The "cod" men^'oned were probably not the Gadus morrhua. being spent thorns, wore udin otLois d. A trawl 18, the otlier sh, 2 skates, «o strong to re taken by 1 13 mile.s to g flouudci's, beam trawl depth of 55 lUHsed in tbe a River was larly parallel eut and that and into aii ectly off the lian in cone h and south. ' the Cohiir, ion No. 288:', ly sandy hot ackcod were Southwest depth being touicod, and )y the use of )f the co.'ist, istigatious of possible that 1 very mi cli email schonr> Hul Shoal w II tft t and nimlr -10 j aiviy ifo>'.?, .11 r< .S cuui.v. 'i li' i(', and hH.IP.1! FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMKB ALBATROSS. 167 Off Tillamook Bock. — This rock is situated olf Tillamook Head, about IG or 17 miles south of the mouth of the Columbia Kiver. As halibut had beeu reported from the adjacent waters, a careful examination was liiade of its surroundings, one visit having been paid to the region in October, 1888, and another in June, 1889. On the first visit the bottom was tested in several places oflf the northern side of the rock, in depths of 29 to 30 fathoms, by means of the dredge. It consisted pf hard gray sand, but only a comparatively small amount of life was obtained. At the same time a trawl line was set near the can buoy off the northern end of the rock, one end lying in 18 fathoms, the other in 25 fathoms, the bottom being rocky. The total catch consisted of only 7 dogfish. This experience, together with the results of subsequent trials (luring the same season, showed that, in the fail, the coast of Oregon, like that of Washii,;^ton, is seriously infested with sharks and dogfish, which greatly interfere w't>. "iv; ■ '.-'fuV fishing. • ('*■;< i' ' better success was met with the following June, when the Albatross proceeded to Tillamook Eock in company with the light-house steamer MamuHita. Acting upon the a^ivice of the commander of the Manzanita, the trawl line was set so as to cover as much as possible of the ground from which the capture of halibut had been reported, one end being placed close to Tillamook Rock and the other near the shore of the mainland. After remaining down two hours, the catch comprised 1 hali- but weighing 25 pounds, 1 large Rkate, and 1 red rockfish. Hundreds of starfishes were also attached to the hooks and proved a great annoyance. In the meantime the Manzanita^ at luir moorings alongside the rock, obtained 3 halibut and 2 gr' und- sliarks by means of hand lines, but with the same appliances only a few red rockfish were taken by the Albatross, although trials were made in numerous places. Four beam-tra'vl stations (Nos. 3060-30()3) were occupied in different positions about the rock, during the same day, in deptns of 23 to 44 fathoms. The bottom consisted of mud at vne> station iu 28 fathoms, and of fine sand at the others. Among the specimens sef -r.ei}. were 8 species of flounders, hake, tomcod, sculpins, shrimp, smelt, crabs, tn t. n '/«"t ''US. The grouii 9 : '..' " jllamook Rock to which halibut are likely xo resort appear to cover a very limiiuu ? '^■■i, which may be regarded as suitable for boat fishing with hand lines. Scatteriii.- " libut will probably be found there during a large part of tlie year. The grounds are too small, however, and the fish too sca'ce to offer any inducements for vessel fishing or the use of trawl* 'ines. Many jf the so-called halibut recorded from thib region are said to be a very a'fferent ki id of flatfish, the Atheresthes stomias, whi(^h also goes by the name of " turboi" iu Astoria. Beam-trawl station No. 30(54 was about 9 irnles northwest from Tillamook Rock, iu 46 fathoms, fine gray sand and gravel. Although the same character of bottom ill una as ocuir - iu corresponding depths about the rock was discovered in this position, trials with '• >■ . V-ies proved entirely unsuccessful. O^PtfJ>tf'i^U'■i:'^ - "C.ipe Falcon, or False Tillamook, is about 11 miles south of TiHauiook Htai. «e"iu'al soundings were made in tiie viciiiity of Falcecic8 of flounders, rockflsh, whiting, and shrimps. Station 3345 was in a depth of 759 fathoms, a little south of east of Cape Falcon. Off Cape Meares. — In approachin * jiff cape, which lies about 16J miles south of Cape Falcon, a cast of the beam trawi . rle at station 3091, about 15 miles west of the cape, in a depth of 87 fathoms, ^ mud. Five red rockflsh, 4 species of flounders, representetl by about 100 specnueas, half a dozen squid, and a peck of prawns were secured. Station 3092, also with tlie beam trawl, was about 4 miles off the cape, in the same direction, dei)th 46 fathoms, the bottom consisting of broken shells^ 4 species of flounders and several crabs being obtained. By the use of hand lines, 1 red rockflsh was taken in the same position ; 14 red rockflsh were quickly captured nearer the cape in a depth of 25 fathoms; and 24 rockflsh of several species, together with 1 cultus-cod, were secured in 18 fathoms in the vicinity of Arched Eo'-.k, about 6 J miles north of the cape. A series of trials with hand lines was made from the dory about Three Arch Eocks, some 2 miles south of Cape Meares, while the Albatrons was employed farther off"8hove, but although the work was conducted with as much thoroughness as the time per- mitted, the fishermen met with no success. The first trials were on the northern side of the rocks, but after shifting to the southern side, the cause of the scarcity of life in the immediate vicinity of the rocks was apparently discoverc' in the abundance of sea lions, hundreds of which were hauled out in all sheltered places where they could receive the warmth of the sun's rays. About 1^ miles southwesterly from these rocks, in a depth of 21 fathoms, rocky bottom, 1 red rockflsh and 1 cultus-(x)d were taken on tlie lines; and again, 3^ miles farther soutb, or 2§ miles north of Cape Lookout, in a depth of 18 fathoms, sandy bottom, 1 flounder was taken by the same means. Beam-trawl station 3346 was west of Cape Meares, in a depth of 786 fathoms. Off Cape Lookout — A thorough seanjh of the bottom was made close inshore in the vicinity of Cape Lookojit, beginning about 3 miles north of the cape and endiiif; some 3 or 4 miles south of it, but, although the hand lines were tried in 15 diflereiit positions, not a single flsh was taken. Aliout 2 miles southwest of the cape, howevt^, in a deptli of 39 fathoms, 2 orange rockflsh, 1 salmon, and 1 flounder were socuit'd. Beamtrawl station 3093 was about 4^ miles west of the cape, in a depth of 67 fatlioins, fine gray sand, but only negative results were obtained there as regards the capture of fish, either in tlie net or with the hand lines. The abundance of sea lions almig the coast might account for the scarcity of flslies in elose proximity to the sliore, l»nt not in deeper water. Nentufigah Bay to Siletz Bay. — Attention having l)een called to a supposed bank off Ncstuggah, Oregon, where the genuine cod was reiM)rted to abnuiid, a can I'lil search of the region was made by the AUmtroHH in the early part of S«^ptember, l^^'^O. It was said to be located about 10 miles from land and to have a depth of 12 fathoms. Soundings made at i'requent intervals off the bay, and for some distance to the north i ■ iild be used 'athoms, fine , besides 12 uudors were id at station ns, fine gray nd shrimps, Fsilcon. iles south of 5 miles west 4 species of d a peck of it 4 miles off ig of broken the use of were quickly 'GTid species. irched Eonk, Arch Rocks, ;lier oflFshorc, the time per- [lorthern side arcity of life ibundance of le they could Ihoms, roa lions alimg he shore, imt i])posud bimk nd, a cart ful tcmber, 1>^S!), )f 12 fathoms. ) to the north FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 169 and south, showed 15 fathoms about 1 mile from shore, from which point the depths increased regularly to 70 fathoms, at a distance of 8 to 10 miles, or in the position of tiio alleged bank. The bottom consisted of fine gray sand, from which the customary varieties of coast fishes were obtained, but no specimens of cod. A depth of 12 fathoms will be found nowhere in this region except within a fraction of a mile of the land and well within the sound of the surf. Thirteen trials with hand lines were made between Cape Lookout and Siletz Bay on September 9, 1889, with the result of finding food-fisiies abundant in some local ities. The slight deptiia of water near the shore and the generally smooth bottom render fishing easy, and it may bo regarded as comparatively good. The tidal cur- n'nts are somewhat strong at times, but not sufficiently so as to greatly inconven- ience operations. Many black-cod wore taken on the hand lines ofi" Nestuggah Bay and off Cjuscasgood quality idvantiiges for out 600 pounds this day. on August 31, md linea no: tli ■ances of 3 umi Beam-ti.iffl I 2, iu depths of tU and 32 fathoms, respectively. An abundance of flshes, including several species of flounders and of rockttsh, 2 black-cod, and a quantity of crabs and shrimps, were secured at the former, and many flounders at the latter. Nine red rocktish and 2 whiting were captured with hand lines in the last position. Two and two-thirds miles off the Siuslaw River, in a depth of 18 fathoms, fine pray sand, 52 black rockflsh [Sebastoden melanopK) were taken with hanJ lines, on the latter date, in a trial lasting one hour. In 24 fathoms, yellow sand bottom, about IJ miles farther north, the catch cx)nsi8ted of 5 black -cod and 8 t)range rocktish. This locality is very favorable for hand-line fishing, large captures being possible in com- paratively shallow water and in close proximity to the shore. Beam trawl station 3082, on September 2, was located 4 miles from land, directly oft' the mouth of Ten Mile Creek which drains Tsiltcoos Lake, in latitude 43° 52' N., 43 fathoms, fine gray sand. Several flounders were taken in the aet,but nothing was caught on hand lines used in the same connection. Several trials were made with hand lines, on September 10, between the latitude of Siuslaw River and that of TTmpqua River, with the following results : In 13 fathoms, just to the north of Ten Mile Creek, nothing; in 36 fathoms, about 2^ miles oft' Tak- iienitch Creek, 1 red rockfish; in 13 fathoms, immediately south of the mouth of this creek., nothing; iu 28 fathoms, about 2i miles northwesterly from the mouth of ITmpqua Hivor, 27 red rockfish; about 2^ miles directly west of the mouth of the same river, 1 re4 rockfish. The duration of these trials was from 8 to 30 mirntes each. Heceta Bank. — Off Cascade Head, a short distance north of the parallel of 45° N. latitude, the 100-fathom curve is distant only about 13 miles from shore, but south- ward from this point the platform broadens regularly, attaining a width of 35 miles in latitude 44° N. A few miles farther south, however, it is abruptly constricted to a width of 18 or 19 miles. The southwestern part of this elongated triangular area is occupied by Heceta Bank, the only inqwrtant distinctive offshore fishing-ground on ihe coast of Oregon. Its southern and western borders are defined by the abrupt sloping margins of the platform, but on the northern and eastern sides the bank is l)ractically continuous with the general surface of the platform, and in those direc- tions its precise limits have not yet been determined. The total area of the bank probably does not exceed 300 square miles. The depths range from 41 to 95 or more fathoms, and in some places they vary abruptly. Two small areas with depths between 41 and 4<» fathoms occur on the extreme southwestern part of the bank, but as a rule the depths exceed 55 fathoms. A con,siderable part of the bank has a rocky bottom, alternating with patches of clay, pebbles, and gi-avel, but sand and mud are also found in places. Halibut occur on this ground, but they are not known to be abundant. Heceta Bank was visited by the AlbatroHS on October 19, 1888, June 8, 1889, and September 1, 1889, and its contour and principal ch.tracteristics have been pretty well determined. Ten dredging stations have been occupied in depths of 41 to 68 fath- oms, but owing ti» the very rough character of the bottom the beam trawl was seldom used successfully, most reliance being placed upon the dreilge and tangles, especially the latter, for obtaining specimens of the bottom life. A very rich fauna was dis- covered, fully equal to that of Flatti^ry Bank, the large collection of invertebrates secured containing a great diversity of forms, among which were gorgonian, hydroid, and actiniau corals, sponges, comatuhe, ophiurans, starfishes, sea-urchins, bryozoaus, IK' I -I I. Mi 172 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. i3 ascidiann, etc. In tliia resi)ect the region presents every requisite for an excellent fi8bing-bank, whicli it will uudonbtedly prove to be when it haa been more thorougbiy developed. Fisliing operations were actively carried on dnring each visit, by means of the beam trawl where ]>os8ible, and with trawl lines and hand lines, the latter being gen- erally employed and with the best success. The variety of f<»od-iiHheH obtaint^d was quite large, iuchuiing halibut, black-c«d, cultus-ood, sea trout, whiting, red rockflsli, and several other species of the latter group. On October 19, 1888, the catch was small, containing only 1 halibut, weighing 10^ pounds, in iuldition to several sitecimens of rocktish and black-cod, 1 shark and 1 lace8 at the same time. They were ancbored within half a mile of each other, in a depth of about 43 fathoms, e>nd at the end of an Itoar had secured 22 red rocktisli, weighing 192 pounds. Twelve additional 8p«»cimens were captured from the deck of the Albatross during the same interval with the aid of only three lines. J ust before sunset, a trial with 11 lines was made at stadon 3054, depth .53 fathoms, rocky bottom, on the northern part of the bank, but only 1 yellow-tail was caught. The trials made during this day seemed to indicate that better resultj) could be obtained with the hand lines by drifting than by anchoring, the fish appsirently congregating on detached rocky spots. Good fishing would continue for a time and then suddenly cease, making it necessary to seek a new ground. September 1, 1889, was a clear day with comparatively smooth sea, and therel)y oflfered an excellent opportunity for continaiug the work. Much time was spent in attempting to determine the area of the shoaler part of the bank, between depths of 41 and 50 fathoms. It was found to be very limited. The beam trawl and tangles were used sucoessfulb at stations 3078 and 3079, the former iu (J8 fathoms, mudcky bottom, > trials made ith the hand on detached jase, making and thereby ras spent in len depths of and tangles loms, lunddy arried on at with varying lose at hand, ocky bottom, inniger) were •ed in the I'idl the schooner r this bank in tured several ofllhalilMit red by shaiks used by th<'se ueta IJa"'- lor iialibut tishing, but the observations thus far made are not encouraging in that respect. The abundance of several other species, however, especially of the red rocktlsh, will lurnish sufticieiit inducement to tishing vessels, whenever they can be assured of a ready market for their cattih. The use of the beam trawl and of trawl lines on the rougher parts of the bank is impracticable, hand lines being most serviceable in such localities. Inside of Heeeta Bank. — After leaving Heceta Bank on September 1, 1889, the nivestigatioiis with the beam trawl were extended to the muddy and sandy bottom lying between there and the mainland. Station No. 3080 was made a few miles to the eastward of the bank, in a depth of 03 fathoms, green mud, and disclosed a great wealth of ttsh life, the catch including about 100 fltmnders, representing several species, many rockfish, 1 black-cod, ami 1 cultus-cod. Station No. 3081 was still nearer to the land, in about the same latitude, the depth being Gl fathoms, and the bottom cotisisting of green mud and sand. In this position 200 flounders were captured, besides an abundance of several other species. As the duration of these hauls did not exceed 20 minutes each, the value of this region as a beam-trawl fishing-ground must be conceded. \ Umpqua River to Cape Blanco. — The observations were carried southward from the Umpqua River on September 12, 1889. Four miles south of the river, in a depth of 53 fathoms, 3 orange and 1 black rockfish were taken on the hand lines in the course of 15 minutes. A second trial, about 3 miles farther south, in a depth of 40 fathoms and lasting 25 minutes, afforded 22 orange rockfish. From this point, however, to the Coquille River, a distance of 28 miles, no fishes of any kind weie captured, although stations were made in 8 different places. In 25 fathoms, rocky bottom, directly off the mouth of the Coquille River, 1 orange roc'kfish and 1 cultus-cod were secured ; but from here to Cape Blanco all of the fishing trials again proved unsuccessful. Dredging station No. 3094 was in this region, about 11^ miles south of Cocjuille Point, depth 35 fathoms. Orford Reef. — The fishery investigations on the coast of Oregon terminated at Orford Reef on September 12, 1889, although the hydrographic observations were con- tinued to the California State line. Reaching the vicinity of the reef during the after- noon, Mr. Alexander was detailed to examine the shallow waters in one of the small boats, while the Albatross worked farther off shore. Only 2 dredging stations, Nos. 3095 and 3096, were made here, both with the tangles. They were located just to the south and southeastward of the reef, in depths of 33 and 42 fathoms, the bottom being very rich in animal life. The exposed part of Orford Reef consists of several very rough ridges which rise abruptly from the sea. They are covered in places with sea lions, but, notwithstand- ing this fact the surrounding waters contain an abundance of food-fishes of several varieties. By far the best fishing was obtained on the south side of the reef, in 6 to 8 fathoms, hard and very irregular bottom. As it generally proved very difficult to release the anchor, it was found most expedient to lay to and drift with the wind and tide, although there was constant danger of losing the hooks and leads by their catch- ing upon the rocks. A very large and interesting assortment of fishes was collected, including red and orange rockfish, vermilion rockfish {Sebastodes miniatus), ' altus-cod, one black-cod, and several large sculpins. The cultus-cod were especially abundant. Efjual success was obtained by the use of hand lines from the ship south and west of the reef. 174 BULLETIN OF TUE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. CALIFORNIA. NORTHERN BOUNDARY LINE TO POINT BE YES. Boundary line to Point Arena. — On October 12 to 14, 1881), the investigfttioiis which had [)reviou8ly been conducted on the coast of Oregon were continued down tlu^ coast of California as far as Cape Mendoi'-iuo. Oi)erations, however, were entirely restricted to sounding, with the object of defining the contour of the bottom on tlie continental platform from the shore linb :"tc» uopths of about 200 fathoms. In Sep tember, 181H), on the return trip from Alaska to San tVancisco, the sounding work was resumed oft" Cape Mendocino and was carried thence southward as far as I'oiilf Arena. A line of live stations with the beam trawl (Nos. 3^J48-3362), begun oft" Point Arena, in a depth of 455 fathoms, was extended inshore just to the north of this point. but no trials either with hand lines or trawl lines were made within these limits. The continental platform is relatively narrow along this entire stretch of coaxt. Oft' Point St. George, near Crescent City, it has a width, within the 200fatho>n (jurve, of about 9 miles. Off" Klamath River this width increases to 17 miles, but it becomes reduced again tc 8 miles at Trinidad Head, and is very njuch less at Capo Mendocino. In the vicinity of Point Arena the platform attains a majfimum width of 10 to 12 miles. There are no fishing-banks, properly so called, in any part of this region, but the usual coast fishes will undoubtedly be found in spots al(»ng the shore. The beam trawl may be used in the neighborhood of Point Arena, but there are some rocky places to be avoided. The captain of the steam fishing schooner George H. Chance, of Portland, Oregon, reports the capture of several halibut close to Cape Mendocino, in a depth of 40 fathoms. It is not probable, however, that this species can be taken there in paying quantities. Point Arena to Point Reyes. — This region was examined between March 24 and -!l, 1890, sounding work chiefly being carried on. As before mentioned, the 200-fathoni curve is about 12 miles from shore at Point Arena, whence it follows the direction of the coast line as far as Salt Point. From this point, however, the platform broa ally obtain'Mi species taken are the rer water Hi)PcieH were qHiU> ru^oliii'ly (liHtribiited, liiitflHheH l)uiii|; tiie principal Ibaturu of every haul. Hiiiall HpeciiiieiiH of the "deep-sea sole" wereseeured in depths of 50 fathoms and less. Tlic *Mong->inned sole" was tra<'«Ml from near the slioro into depths of 100 fathoms, tiic finest specimens oeenrriug in the ei' water. These two species a)>proach iiunv nearly U) the Kuropeau sole than any others on the I'acillc con^t, the tlesh of niatmc individuals heinfi^ white, gelatintms, and exceedin^^ly delicate in flavor. From expi ri ments niiule on board tho AlhatroHti they were found, when k(4>t on ice, to imjtrdvc until the fourth day, but deteriorated after the seventh day. They can be cai)turc(l only with the beam trawl or other form of dra^ net. Larpe speoimensof thedet^p sen sole seldom, if ever, reach the Saii Francisiio uuirket, as tlie (Ishermen n'strict tiicir o])er!itions to wat«r too shallow for them. In consequence of this fact, no doubt, the fishermen have also had no incentive to increase the size of their tishing boats in MiIn re};ion, or to improve their character. While many <»f these boats, hailinfr from Siiii Francisco as well as from Saiitii Cruz and ISronten'y, are stable and seaworthy, and often good sailers, they are lacking in accommodutione and especially in comfortable quarters for the crew. The variety of fishes taken during this investigation was quite large, but a din- cussion of them must be deferred until the completi'80rt Holo *' -. do do do Pleiit'oiiiohthvs »lociirrein» (]0 do GiviitoccpbftiuH zacbiniH *' Loiig-ttniHMi Bole'* Kod rockflsb Yclbiw -tail rooktinh Viimiilion rooktlMh mitiifttuH eloniratuH Kdon eloDffAtuH GtiltuH-Cod A i>60Da - Perch Qeiivonemua linoAtus Roncador Smelt..., Chiiiitura coUiel Katflnh iH were (jiiiU' laul. Bniall 1(1 le88. The flit lioniH, t li<> pi'Oiich innic ill of iiuitinc ^'roin «xi»tii ), to iniprdvc be caittmcd the deep scrt ('Strict tlicir () doubt, tlic boats in MiIh iijj from Siiu iwortliy, and coiufortalile pe, bwt a (liH- report updii Mneof whioli iiied ha8b('(!ii jf the species Monterey liny, FIHHEKY INVESTKiATlONtt OK THE STEAMEK ALUATUO»H. 177 iiiil of (/id prinviiml Jliihi-t ohtainrd by the tlmnuir A/balrom b^luieim I'oint llvye* and Monterey Hay, March antl April, l8(Mt — ('iiiitiiiiu-U. (Ill ilnpthii greater than SO ratboma.| • Hoientiflo Canmon name. Belatlva abnndanc«. MUiroHUiiniiH (lai'ifloim AtlicrcHtlxm HtoiiiiiiH (ilv|it(M'*<|>liHlni< /.iicliiriiii... HiMiiu(H<)ilialii« I " Det'ii'Mut hiiIk " I Aliiiniuiiliinl. Reiittiih Do. HIavk cikI, ItdHhiiwe ' Conimuu. Orenadier i Few. I Kar... ) Eol iwuta Abundant. Vlper.flah!.! !!!!'.".'.'.;'.'.!'.'.'.'. 'l)«. Ciininiiiu. Few. The invertebrate fauna occupying this region is ricli and diversified, tlie greatest variety of forms liaviugbcen secured between deptiis of 10(> and (J(M> fat' ms. Inside of til' )-fat1iom (!urve tlie species differ essentially from those found on tlie coasts of C and Washington. Slirinips and prawns, some of vi^ry large size, were obtii.i...^ oc(!asionally ill d(iptlis of oO fathoms and over. The comnKm iiirgc edible mxh [Vance )• magiHter) was abundant, wiiile Cancer aatcnnarim and Cancer produetus, bolli also edilile, were common along the shores. The surface, however, was found to ho jiractieally barren of life, very little material being taken in the tow nets, but this limy have been due to the season of the year. The FaraUon InhtndH. — The flshing-grouiids adjacent to the Farallon Islands are auioiig the most important on the cosist of California. The fishing season lasts from September to May, and during this period work is actively (larried on by means of trawls and hand lines. The priiuupal anchorage is (m the south side of the South Fiuallon, and the grounds surrounding this island are, as a rule, more productive than tliose about the North and Middle Farallones. The bottom is excee9, and 3100 having been made in depths of 27 to 39 fathoms, roeky bottom. In the vicinity of Noonday Rock, flounders, soles, anchovies, tomcod, and other 8pe(!ie8 were obtained in the besim trawl, but only red rockfish were taken on the hand linas. Gordell Bank is located at the outer margin of the continental platform, about 21 inilt's northwesterly from the North Farallon, th(^ shoaler part of the ground being between 19 and 20 miles due west from Point Reyes (latitude 38° N.). It was exam- ined on March 24, 1890. The soundings showed numerous rocky patches extending over a somewhat larger area than is indicated on the i)ubli8hed charts, but iu a westerly F. C. B. 1892—12 178 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. direction tlie deptlm iiicreai^a rapidly witli a bottom of green mnd. Tlio area of tlie bank, 80 fur as it lias been determined, amounts to about 2U square miles, according; to Capt. Tanner, the bottom consisting of rocks, sand, and shells, intermixed with mud, The least depth discovered is 25 fathoms. The tangles were used occd^sionally, ami trials with hand lines were made fr«>m time to time, but the swell and ii'trong current which prevailed rendered it difficult to keep the latter on the bottom. A cod truwl was set on the western part of the bank, and was allowed to remain aown seven hours, the catk' of the bay, but only 2 small tiyond the Tew )utli of Point 3 use of liirgi' •n in carrying ih and Apiii. The bottom srab .icts. A northern wide ih are said to nsistjMi of m herring, and I is a favorite there ai'C xvi trance to this II 10 fathoms, od, 1 snu'lf, 6 ^W. from tlis icH, solos, and I smaller tliiui hvte, betw':»Mi waters <''(tse to 8oj)toiiibci id Point Mil' ufisco Uslii'i- I'c, follow tliis FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER AL'llTROSS. 179 Monterey Bay and vicinity. — Monterey Bay has an extreme length, north and south, of about 22 miles, and is open to the ocean for nearly this entire distance. The greater part of the bay has depths less than 100 fathoms, but directly off the mouth of Salinas If.ivor begins a deep trough or valley, which extends westward, with irreg- ular margins at the 100-fathom line, and widens somewhat rapidly until it opens into the deeper parts of the adjacent ocean. A maximum depth of something over 400 fathoms is found within the limits of the bay. Two visits Avere paid to Monterey Bay by the steamer Albatross, the first between March 12 and 15, the second on April 10 and 11, 1890, and much -oundiug and dredg in>,' work was accomplished. A continuous series of dredging stati(ms, outside of the limits of the bay, was run in a curved line from off Baud Hill Bluff, in the north (latitude 30° O'?' N., Iongitud'3 122° 10' W.), to off Point Pinos, in the south, as fol- lows: No. 3123, 37 fathoms; No. 3125, (56 fp.homs; No. 3146, G2 fathoms; N». 3126, 456 fathoms; No. 3127, 418 tathoms; No. 3128, 627 fathoms, and No. 3129, 204 fathoms. StaUons3l24 and 3136 to '\44, inclusive, were in the northern part of the bay, on a H'uall bank off Santa Cruz and in the region adjacent to it; stations 3130 to 3135, 'nciubive, ami 3145 wore in different parts of thobay, in depths of 9 to 56 fathoms; and 3202 and 3203 in the submarine valley off the SaUuas River, in depths of 382 and 138 fathoms, respectively. This bay is regarded as one of the most productive fishing-grounds on the coast of Ualifornia, but during the vinter of 1889-90, when these investigations were made, fishes of all kinds were unuhually scan't;, owing, it Is supjutsed, to the phenomenal rainfall which had taken plsuse. Witliin 24 hours after a heavy, rain the surface becomes covered with nuiddy wiiter, Miii;;h is said to have the effect of driving the fishes from the shallow grounds, and continued stormy weather has a tendency to keep them ir"u s\u'h i)lacos. The small bank otf Santa ('rnz, above referred to, is a rocky ground, the center of which lies about 2 miles SS'.V. from the light-house. It has an area of about 14 8'iuare miles, the depthH ranging from S to 20 fathoms. The Coast Survey chart gave no indication of the rocky bottom, and the attention of the Albatross was attracted to it by the uTiniber of boats engiigcd in fishing there. The bank is resorted to both NHMinier and winter. I Mtring t hv. latter season the Monterey ttshenuen work maiidy on Ariiuiids in the southern part of the bay near tlie entrance. Drag seines and gill nets arc also employed on the smooth bottoms and sandy beaches throughout th "egion. Fishing opovations were diiigently pr«»s8ed ])ortion. Along tho beaches perch and smelts were secured in large i)u;intities by nutans of the drag seine. A small stri|iod bass {Kovcus lineatus) was also taken in the same: nuinner, this bi-int; the most southern locality from which it huH HO far beer recorded. It is not native to California, but h.io been introduced from till' Atlantic < . .i.st. Gill nets and a trawl line were set ab»iut 1.} miles from the harlwr a/icliorage at iMoutorey, one l)arracuaid to Its, weigiiing Lir^est cateh gl889. Tiie being cliidi.v the principal are seen iis "down run," g the retiiru FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 181 or " np run," which is, as a rule, of shorter duration, lasting only from four to six -veeks. Twenty-one men and nine boats are employed at this station during the whaling season. POINT CONCEPTION TO THE MEXICAN BO^INDAEY LINE. This region was examined during January and February, 1889, but a few obser- vati(ms were also made at other times — in the course of the voyage from Norfolk to Siin Francisco, in 1888, and during the cruise sruth ward from the latter place in March -.nd April, 1890. Along this jjortion of the coast the continental platform, as defined by the lOOfathom curve, is everywhere narrow and yet quite irregular in its width, being sometimes less than a mild wide, and attaining a maximum breadth of about 13 miles off Santa Barbara. Notwithstanding this fact, however, the several islands surrounded by shallow water which occur off thd land, and the two small but inri)or- tant biMiks farther south, combine with the surface of the platform to offer exceptional lulvantages for fishing, which can never be fully utilized until larger markets shall have been established within convenient dista ices. The most important hydrographic work accomplished by the ^i&ai channel, may have soiuething to do with it. Mr. Alexander describes the oil as sometimes occurring in small patclies, and at others covering large areas, in the region off Santa Barbara light, at a few miles IVoni shore. Its prevalence, he thinks, " probably prevents nugratory flshes fii i sclKtoIiiif; in this part of the channel, and possibly nniy tend to influence their movements over a considerable distance both up and down the channel." It is not unliKoIy that the barrenness of much of the bottom may also be due to this cause. Vufinity of Point Conception. — On January 8, 1889, a trawl line was set in -0 fathoms of water, rocky bottouj, about 7 miles east of Point Conception, hand lines also being ui-od from the ship and from a small boat at the same time, but no flshe^ ol' any kind were taken. Four stations (2906-2908) with the beam trawl and taii;.;lt's were then made in a short line running ()ff from this position, the depths ranging ti urn 31 to iM) fathoms, and the iNittom being exceedingly variable in chanR'ter. A consid FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMEli ALUATROSb. 183 le soutliern oint of San ojection (tn uth of tliis m 2J to 4A with some (exceeding about t\v(i- Qes reduced sfly of II, ud, atea^i dei)tb le principal, ige to San , iu a depth I was begiiii )Iack-cod, 7 jeciinpt'.s of 2893 \7ere 15 fathoms, iious iu the bllows: No rth of Santa San Mifjuel ttom at any inter of tlie 28() fathoms, ibject Capt. eason nlotic is I'oii foriiiin-; ii ;hea, and at ' miles iKini a scliooiing Muents o\ er sly that t he s set in -0 Itand lines no iishe^ of mtl tangles inuring tioMi A consid erable umnber.of invertebrates was secured, but nothing indicating a good tisliing- ground. Off Santa Barbara. — The examination of the flahing-grounds off this place, conducted on February 11, 1889, was described by Capt. Tanner as follows: Wo loft our nnchora>;e at 7 a, in. on the 11th, and, piloted 'by Capt. Laroo, exuininod a tlHhiug- b»nk, thu center of which lies £. ^ N. (magnetic) about 3 niiloH front Santa Barbara light-houH(<. It Ih about a niilo in length NE. and SW., by half a mile in width, Houndings regular, with depths from 12 to 20 fathomR, fine black sand, with fro(|nont stony patchus or spots, on whicli there is a live bottom. Another bank was examined and found to be between 2 and 3 miles iu Inugth, E. by S. and W. by N. (magnetic), and almost 1 mile in width, its center being 5 miles ESE. from the lit^ht-houHO. The soundings were regular witli depths from 20 to 29 fathoms, which agreed closely with the Coast Survey cliurt, as dill those on the bank p viously examined. The bottom waa sandy, with frequent stony ]i:itcheH, as before described. The stones were composed of hardened clay, filled with holes, easily crumbled in the hand, and strongly resembling the tosca of South American coasts. It was covered with kelp, sponges, bryo- 2<)»'!S_ and otlier mariae growths. The lead did not give the true character of the bottom, and it was aiii^ertaiued by dragging the trawl or tangles between stations, stony patches, some of tlumi very small, being eucouutored every t\ o or three ship's lengths. Kelp was found growing on all of them, much of it being brought up by tne trawl, the roots still adhering to their stony ballast. It seemed to bo a young growth, as none of it reached the surfaco. According to Capt. Larco, these banks were at one tiiS.:, alive with lish, but being so jioar the harbor thoy were soon fished out, and are vmited now only by rowboats or sailing craft too small to go to the islands. There are no indications of these rocky or stimy patches on the Coast Survey charts. Later in the day, a small rocky patch, marked ou the chart 1 mihis south (magnetic) from the li^bt-houst', was partially examined, and muddy bottom, with rocks and coral patches, was found iu from 50 to 00 fathoms, It was not known to the fishermen of Santa liarbara, but Capt. Larco was conlideut t'aai it was a spot ou which, many years ago, an old Indian used to fill his canoe when others failed to catch anything on the known banks. Eleven stations (29(51-2971) with the beam trawl and tangles were made in the vicinity of the flrst-mentioned grounds, in depths of 20 to 31 fatiioraa, and three stations (2972-2974) outside of the last and the deeper ground, in depths of Gl to 73 fathoms, green mud. Viviparous perch were the principal fishes obtained by seining on the beach at Santa Hai-bara during a visit made early in Aju-il, I8i)0. Vicinity of Son Mujuel /«tenrf.— Investigations were conothe ship. The fishing trials aie thus described by Mr. Alexander: The first fishing was done in 4f fatboms, Richardson Rock bearing WSW. i W. (magnetic), dis- tant 1^ miles. Ten red rock cod and 10 yellow-tails were caught iu a few uiinuteK' time. The next Iwrth was in 41 fathoms, Wilson Rock bearing E. by S. ( magnetic) 2. :( miles distant, only one small 184 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. flounder being taken ilnring a 10-minute trial. Tlie lost trial made between Richardson and Wilson rocks was in 36 fathoms, the latter rock bearing ESE. (magnetic), distant 1.6 miles; 4 red rock-ind and 3 rock bass were captured. From the abo\'e station the ship ran E. ^ S. miles and hove to in 42 fathoms, Wilson Uin'k bearing S. by E. i E. and close to. Fifteen lines woi .; soon over the Hhi))'s side and fishing began. .Mr. Larco and the writer went out in thi< dingey to try for (isli around the rock. Seven or eight tri.iU were made in depths varying from 2."» to 35 fathoms, but wo did not meet with as good success as \\m cxpecti'd by Mr. Larco. He hud frcciucutly anchored over tlio same ground whore we were fishing iiiid liitd loaded his boat in a few hours, but this was late in tlie season. Many trials were also made tii the southward of the rock, where large iiumbei-s of whitetish generally feed in summer, and still our etforts were only poorly rewarded. The total catch was 4 rod rook-cod, 3 whiteflsh, 1 cultus-cml, 1 sculpin, 1 rock bass, 1 scorpion, and 1 black rock-cod. On returning to the ship we found the dcik covered with fish. It had drifted Imia few minutes when they were encountered in great abundance, every line hooking at once and those who participated had keen enjoyment for 2 hours. Fisliiin; begar in 34 fathoms and was cortion of the coast may possibly otter good advantajzcs for a fishery for the black-coil, but further trials are necessary to determine that fact. Station 2898 was near 2897, in a depth of 158 fathoms, while No. 2896 was in MH fathoms, yellow mud. A rich fauna was found at both of these places. On February 8 a beam-trawl station (No. 295<}) was oc(!upi«'d off the souttuin entrance to San Miguel Passage, about .'4 miles from the eastern end of the island of the same name, depth 52 fatlioms, tlie bottom consisting of fine gray sand and rotKs. Later, on the same day, the AllmtroHH anchored off the southern side of the island, and a fishing party was rowed close inshore among the rocks and kelp, where, in a short time, 28 specimens of red rockttsli, whitetlsh, and rock bass were taken. Fisliinj; trials from the ship proved ineffectual. Daring the summer the .salt-water crayli>li (PanuUrus) is abundant al)OTit the shores of Ban Miguel Island, and large numbers ;iie obtained there both for bait and for tlie market. FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALUATROSS. 185 n and Wilmm > red rock-i'citl Wilson Hr eight tri:ilii nt'COHB aH \v:is re fishiu); niid alao luadi^ to , and Btill mir ciiltu8-(-n7() he southern he ishind of I and roclvs. tlie island, whore, in a u. Fisliin^ or crayli-li lumbers mv Vicinity of Santa Rosa Island. — In the evening of January 0, 1889, a trawl line vras set in the outer part of Becher Bay, at the eastern end of tliis ishind, the depth being 20 fathoms. It was allowed to remain down over night, but in tlie morning only 1 puffer shark (Cephalosoyllium ventrioosum), 3 sea anemones, and 1 crab were found on the hooks. Shore collections were also made at this place, but the surf was too heavy to permit of seining. The small dredge was then liaiJed in the bay at station No. 2900, 13 fathoms, siuidy bottom, and subsequently two beam-trawl stations (Nos. 2901, 2902) were made about 4 miles north of Bojmjou Reef, in depths of 48 and .j3 fathoms, many interesting specimens being obtained. On the morning of February 8, a line of dredging and fishing stations was run tlii'(mgh Santa Cruz channel, and thence several miles .southward along the crest of a ridge which extends in the direction of San Nicohis Island, but the full ext'^nt of this shallow water was not determined. Subsequently the work was continued off the southern side ol Santa Rosa Island as far its San Miguel Island. The bottom consisted of cleiin h'lrd sand, with ft'equent sharp rock projections. Tlio following dredging stations were made during the day, namely: No. 2950, in Becher Bay, 21 fathoms; No. 2949, 155 fathoms, and No. '_*951, 48 fathoms, at the southern entrance to Santa Cruz Channel; No. 29.52, 57 fathoms. No. 2953, 82 fathoms, No. 29.54, (55 fathoms, and No. 2955, 121 fathoms, on th.> ridge extending south from Santa Rosa Island. The following acc«mnt of the fishing trials is from Mr. Alexan- der's report : At station 2953, latitude 33^^ 47' N., longitude 110° 58' 15" \V., depth 82 fathoms, the dingey wiis Iciweri'd for the ]iur]>ose of testing the bottom with hand lines. A ^hort distance from tlio above xtation the bottom suddenly drop])ed oft' into 100 fathoms and a fair trial failed to give us any results. Wi- shifted our berth several times in the direction of the shore, gradually shoaling the water to liU rutlionm, in which depth we obtained 2 red rock-cod. The position where we Lft the shiji was aliont 10 miles from Santa Rosa Island. In changing l>erths we probably worked a 'le in towards fhore. Adding this to the distance steamed by the ship in going over this ground and \t'e have a rocky Irilgu about 5 miles long and with a de]ith of <>5 to tH) fathoms developed during the morning, on which reil rock-cod, whitoflsh, and fat-heads will probably be abundant at certain se.osons. Tlie extent of till- ledge, however, may be much greater. The results of dredging indicate a rich bottom. Off the south side of Santa Cruz Island. — The beam trawl Wivs used on February 7, 18S9, in two positions not far aptut off the .southern side of Santa Cruz Island. The results obtained have been described as follows by Capt. Tanner: Two of the hauls of the afternoon, Nos. 2947 and 2!U,S, in 269 and 2()t) fathoms, were among the richest eration8 is by Mr. Alexander: We commoiiced fishing in 30 fathoms, the SE. end of Auacapa Island bearing E. by N. i N,, San Pedro Point NVV. } W. After reiuaiuiu^j; there aboat fifteen niiniitea wo shifted to the south and west into 27 fathoms, the above-mentioned points bearing E. by N. } N. and NW. i W., rospectivuly. In these two drifts of short duration, 'M ruti rocktish and fat-heads wen- i-aptnred. Two other trials were snbsetinently made ou the following bearings: In 28 fathoms, San Pedro Point NW. by W. ^ W. ; south and e:tstem end of Anacapa Island, E. by N. In 27 fathoms, tliv former point bearing NW., the latter ENE. The resalt of theiw trials was as follows: 22 whitcl'iNh {Caulolalilus pnncepv), 4 fat-heads {Tt-oi)koeopm* pmieher), '26 tetl rocktish, 8 black rocktish (Sebaelottn mjf8(inH«). A short distance to the eastward of Anacapa Passage the bottom is sandy and coui]iara- tively barren. Early in the evening an anchorage was made by the ship in Smuggler Cove, where a largo- mesh gill net was sot for two hours among the rocksand kelp close by the shore. This was done iiliout dark, n little too late to expect a large catch, such specie* as are generally taken in a gill net usually meshing just before dark or before suurise. Only one crayfish was Ne«-ured. The next morning the net wiis set in the same j>lace, and at the time several sea lions were observed u])on the rocks. Tin; iitt was hauled aftrr lireakfast and contained IK) fish, of which the greatpr number were viviparous ])enli. The sea lions had been there before us. however, as was made manifest by the number of large Imlts in the net caused by their efforts to steal the fish. Sea lionK are still found scattered about the Santa Hurbara Islands, where they greatly annoy the fishermen, not only by devouring the fish taken but also by injuring and often entirely destroying their nets. The remainder of the morning was spent in seining along the sandy beach of Smuggler ('"ve, an excellent locality for that purpose, as there are nu sharp rocks or other obstacles in the way. N'dl- withstanding its advantages, howet-er, only a few perch, sharks, etc., were collected. On February 12 the following dre'o. 2976, 31 fathoms; No. 2977, 45 fathoms, and No. 2978, 46 fathoms, directly ofiF the ^ath side of Anacapa Islsiiid; No. 21)7!t. 388 fiithoms, about 4 miles south of Anacapa Island, and No. 2980, 603 fathoms, al)iiut 11 miles south of Anacapa Island. At the last two stations the bottom consisti'd of green mud; at tl i? preceding ones of sand, gravel, pebbles, and broken shells. Mi, Alexander describes the results of ti.shing trials as follows: On the morning of February 12 many hauls were mad«^ with the beam trawl in Anacapa Pnssspe and off the southern end of Anacapa Island. A haul II miles south of the island in 603 fathoms (station 2980) was one of the richest made in this region. Two trials were also made for bottom fish on the southern side of Anacapa. The first was in 52 fathoms. IJ miles south of Arch rock; the si-cmul was in 3)ont the Santa flsh tukvii but iniigglor Cove, the way. Not- beam trawl: , 45 fatluitiis, lI; No. 2979. ;boms, abmit )ni consistt'd sbells. Ml. lacapa PaxsaKi' tthouis (Htatioii toin tisll on the ik; tho HtMiind atroug liii'i'/c rge catch conlil of flsh ill lliif tnnccs. Litt of the principal food-finhe.H ohUiiniid in the vicinity of the Santa Harbara fslanda, IPreiiaml liy ClinrliM H. 'i'owiiHvnil.] Serranun clathralut, Rock haM. nebulifer, liiiHS. Sphi/rofHa aryentea, liitrracuda. Aheinia minima, Perch, Shiuer. ilicrometrua aygreyatiit, Shiner, SpuriMla. rosaeeui. Amphiiilicus argenltiiB, Surf-llsh. Trochoiopus piilcher, Kut-heud. CitaloUitilus priHcepM, WhiteflHh. Anoplupoma fimbria, lilack-cod, Iteshowe. Only , reappearing in .July and August. They have l)eeii known to strike the coast three times dun ".g a M'a.son, but as a rule they appear only twice. The customary method of tishing for them is with gill nets. The net is 40 fftthonis long and 3 fathoms deep, with a 6-inch mesh. A southeast wind causes tbi^ni to seek deeper water and very few are taken at such times. Sharks and dogfish give the fishermen much trouble in the summer, when they are very abnn- daut, playing sad havoc with the nets and all other kinds of fishing appliances. There are many excellent places on tho Santa Barbara Islands where try works couid be built at slight expense in lotalities where these fishes might be captured in large numbers within half a mihi of the shore. During .January, February, and March only hand-lino fishing is resorted to. Through the four sii.oeeding nxmths no att^nnpt is m.ado to catch any fish but barracuda and mackerel. During the liist miinths of summer but little a*^tentiou is given to fishing of tmy kind, there being little demand for this kind of food. The poor demand for fish at that season arises from tho fact that the fishermen have not tho means of preserving and marketing their catch in suitable condition. The jiriee of ice is so high that its nse would increase the cost of fish beyond the means of the majority of the )>eople. Most of the fish are now sold at from 10 to !."> cents ))er pound in the Santa Harbara market, but 18 eents is Rtnnetimes paid for fat-lieails, whitefish, red rocklish, and yellow-tails. 4l It k "■I ■i I 'i 188 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED 8TATE8 FiBH COMMI88ION, Nearly every spot ulxiiit tint 8uiit» Hiirburu IhIiiiiiU whori* runky bottoiii is fouud luuy bo coimid- (triMl a fiHkiiifr-f;i'iiiiu(l. lied rookfittli iinil fiit-li(ly roi^ardi-d thuii otbtrn. Aiiitt'upa I'liHHii^ro ]« one of the buHt ((roniiilH, u!iotb surface and bottom Ash. Mr. Larco states that lie seblom finds anything in his nets during u rainy spell, and long experience has taught him to resort to some other method of fishing during such times. The salt-water cruylish (PanuliriiH inlerruptui- is caught in trammel nets and in small net tra|is. The latter are very much like the traps used by the boat liNbermcn along tbe shores of Long Isl.iuil Sound and Massacbnsett.s Bay for catching cunners. They are somewhat smaller, however, and liavr two iron hoo)>s instead of one, to which tbe net is fastened. One is at the top and measures about J feet in diameter, while the second, at the bottom, is only 10 inches across. They are placed 2^ I'cel apart, that being the length of the trajt. A wire cage about the sixe of a saucer is attached at tlu' b ittom and serves to hold the bait. The bridle, to which the line for lowering and hauling the trap is fastened, consists of four lines tied to the np])er boo]). These lines are rov<^ through a small pi'ii' of wood which acts as a float to prevent their settling down over the cage and covering the lialt. When restingon the bottom tbe to]) hoop falls in such a manner as to fully disclose the bait. Mr. Larco's boats are all carvel-built and with keels; they are open and have a wash rail, small deck forward, and lateen rig. They are about 2."> feet long, 7 feet wide, have a straight stein ami sharp stern, with tbe rudder bung outside. The accommodations for sleeping and cooking, as in all other boats of this oliMs, are very poor. The fish are thrown into the bottom of tbe bout as sodii an caught, and covered with seaweed to protect them from tbe sun. San Pedro region. — After completin>; a Hue of soundings and dredgiiigs between San Diego atid Point Fenniti, February -1, 1889, search was made for a re[)orted slioal off tlie latter place, but, ai)parently, it does not exist. Subsetjuently an exami tuition was made of South Bank, which is described as follows by Capt. Tanner: It extends about 10 miles UK. by E. (magnetic) from San Pedro light-honsit, and is fk'om :{ ui S\ miles in width. The depths increased regularly to 20 fathoms 2 miles from the point, and to 29 fatlimih at the outtif|ii nukckerel. The price of tbe latter fluctuates, according to the su)i)dy and denntnd; 200 pounds nl lisb is considered a fair day's work with hunil lines. limy bo coimid- )iit intu ilrpilm IH (lot'p. Slllllc 1 b«Ht jfrouiicU, trilHon liocU is iHlanilH iliiriiit! I MiglK'i l^lallll t (luriun wiiiiir 8a, Saiitit Crii/.. bli) iind ^t'liikv imoli tiiiii's till- » fuir wind to 'O Htutes tliatiii! tiiin to reHort to Hiimll net triiiis. of Imuk Islaiiil vevcr, mill liavi' ionHurinis (t Survey < liart. ir, It frequciitlv t this bank at iithonis. Ml. jries geuoi ally li8hing-8i)oi>aic About tv'iity- iors, red roc U lis'' proper Hea--iMis g, mackerel, ami loRu totlie filiiiri'. al market I "rail e >,p"'.'ie8, «' ii'l'' 00 pounds (. I lisb FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMKU AMJATROSH. 189 The fluliing for rod rorkflRli iH I'urriud on in a manner not unlike lliat for <;roiiper in tbe (iulf of Mid to tbe lead. If no fish are found on two trialH, the boat is ufrain given head- way, and a now berth taken a short distance from thf( first one. This ii]>eration is repeated until a jilaro is found where the fish arc abundant, when tbe Jib is liauleni« lai'Ku tlounder ( I'miilichllii/H tuUj'niHicun), of the kind railed liiililiiil li> the liHbernu'u of Han Diego, waH liuuled to the Hurface of the water, but, uwiug lu iU being " liji' botiked," it uniiiaged to free itself, greatly to our disapjiointnient. iSV.s was done during the morning of February l.'l. Two trials were made before good grounds were discovered. The third i)ositi(m was 2 miles VVSVV. from the island, in a depth of l-'l fathoms, 17 red rockfish, .'{ whiteflsh, 2 yellow-tails, 1 fat-head, 1 cultus-cod, and 1 jacks (ii('baHton the United States and Mcx ico, constitute the mo.st important otl'shore fishing-grounds on the coast of (!alif'oniia south of San Francisco. They are only a few miles apart, btit are separated by depths of KM) to something over 200 fathoms. Coast and (Jeodetic Survey chart No. oOlKl represents them on a very small scale, with their outlines defined by the KM) fathom curve, A more detailed chart is given iu the report of Capt. Tanner, contained iu the Annual Report of the Fish Conunission for 1888-89. They are here outlined by the ijOfathoin curve as inclosing that portion of each bank which has been most thoroughly surveyed and fished over, especially in the case of Cortes Bauk, the lar;;er of the two. Capt. Tanner's account of the examination of Cortes Bank is as fcdiuw.s: Arriving at the bank the fidlowing luorniug (.January 1(5), we coninienced investigations liy sounding, dredging, and the use of hand liueii. The sea was breaking heavily over ItiHbop Murk. wbicli made an excellent landnnirk, enabling us to loeate ourselves on any ]mrt of the bank with certainty and without loss of tinui. The examination was oomjileted on the evi-ning of the 17th, mid the g' iierul results may be stated as follows: The ehart* are on scales entirely too snnill to adniii of details being shown. Kishop Kock, on which there is but 10 or li! fcit, is the shoalest part ol iln' bank The sea breaks over it heavily during moderate! weather; but with a smooth sea, when fiit in;; the sun, it can not be seen at any distance anil is at such times very dangerous. The depths cei lu- spond generally with those on the charts, with the exception of a (M'athom spot which was fiiiiinl about a mile south and east of liishop Rock. This might have led to a less depth, but there was :i heavy swell at the time, which induced us to sei^k deeper water. Onr soundings ext-ended the lea of the bank in a southwest directi(ui, where it re(|uires further examination. The bottom was composed of sainl, shells, coral, and rock, the latter cropping out at short intervals over the entire surface. The fauiuk was very rich and varied. Fish were swarming over the bank iu great numlirrs. and, iu fact, it was found to be the richest ground we have found in the racitic. The trawl linc^ was Bet and quite a number of tish taken, but the bottom was too rough for that method of fishing. I'm- KISIlliUY INVESTIOATIONM Oh' THK 8TEAMICK ALUATKOHH. l!)l icil nndnr tlu Illl'lltil'lll llli'V lit liboilt liall ) wu DhIkmI liir HJatutlut' tlu CI' culltMl lialiliiil H l)uill){ " lip' ebruaiy 1.'5, asioiiH. On eaatrrn cud ollocted lor iid at about i(!H WHH done roiuidH were depth of -'1 )-(;od, and 1 J. The boat tuniing to II )eiug taken, Island with detiniiijt' tlie d. Mit on miles ;esand Mcx jf ('alilbrnia eparati'd by ey eliart No. I by tlie KMI er, contiiiiied 3 outlined by ,s been must k, tlie laif^er is as follows: 'Ubtigntioiis liy IUhIiop K'lic'k. (ho bank with f the 17tli, : 111(1 mil to luliiiii of k>nt piirt til I 111' ii, wlion fill ill); > (U'litliH com'- lich wftH liiiiiiil tilt lliore was :i -eiuluil tin' iiL'ii 10 bottom '.vas over the ciiiiip i;reat iiuiulnrs. trawl line was llsliing. I>:iu- giToiiH Hi'uit will lio oiiooiintflrctl on tho Imnk in Htuniiy woiithur, itnd linn' ;- hwoIIh witli iiiotlonito wiiiilH, lint it ix of MMiull oxtt^iit, uiitl with tlio ilci-|i wut<'r siirroniKliug it In not an iinuMiially iliiiiKeroiiH llHliin^-Kroimd. 8tartiiiK fniiii tliii iiorthurnond of tho liank u littlo nftorditrk on the cvfiiinu of the t7th, w-i^ ran a lin*< of HonndiiiK'^ i" tho diruction of San NirolaH Ulanil for 12 uiibw, in ilnpthit Icmh tliitn L'INI fiitlioinH, 511 fiithoiim liuin^ found nt IK niilcH (Tuiiuer l(aiik). ThiH wu marked for fiitiiru invoatiKation ami I'ontiniU'd our coiirMo to tho iHlanil. Tanner Bank, so named by the SiiperinttMideiit of the (I. 8. Coast and (leodt^tie Survey, was no' .;ainiued until tiie 2'lthof January. The following brief deseription is by Cajit. Tanner: ItH ^rcatfiHt leii||(tli inHido of tho r)l)-fnthoin onrvo in H iniloH oaat and wcNt (ninKiiotio) by 2 inlloH in width nt its (>aHtorn extn-inity, narrowing to 1 j iiiilcH at tint woHt<-rn i'IkI. TIi<< ct-iitor of tbu bank, oil which was found 4K I'athoniH, in in latitiiiU' 82 48' N., louKitudu lit' lo' W., anil the least water, 28 fat boms, wnH i.iunil near the eaHtern end, in latitude 32^ 42' 30" N., longitude ll!h 07' 15" \V. Tho hdltoni is ooinpoHed of Hand and KhellH, with niiiiieroi. i-ky pntcheH, on which the fauna wiin found to lie iiluntical witli tliu.t of (JortoH Hank in Hiiiibir depths. Tlio 50-fathoiii curve r)n the eaxt end liuH ninth (true) 16 milett frmn HiHhop'H Kock, both boing on theHanieHiibinarine plat^Miu, with intervening ili'pthH of leSH tliMU 8(M) t'lithoinH, The Maine Hpeeies of tiah found on (NirtcH were taken on this bank, aud it may be oonaicLi-od a valual>lo addition to the fiHhinjCKroiindH of the raoitic coast. The flshin. '., s ou Cortes li!U;k are thus described bv Mr. Alextinder: January 16 we sounded in 60 fathoms ou Cortea liniik (ilred<;iiiK Htntion No. 2!M1, latitnile 82^' 27 80" N., longitude llir 05' W.) where hand lines were put over, taking 2 red rocklixb ami I wliiteti8h(CaH/u/a'i'M'i7>rtHC(|;)«) in the course of about fifteen ininuteN. A second trial was made hoou alter at hydrogi.ipliic fttation 1(!21, latitude 82^ 25' 80 ' N., lonKitiide Hit (Ki' W., d5 and 190 pounds respectively. The fat-heads averaged 19 {Mjuuds each in weight. FiHiiing began in 25 fathoms and -was carried into 84 fathoms. January 17, sounding, dredging, ami fishing were carried on ctiutiiiuously over Cortes Bank. Scvon trials with tho hand linos, from a (|uartor to luilf an hour oaeb in duration, wore made diiriig th. y, resulting in tho capture of 95 tish. The first was at hydrographic station 1681, 47 fathoms, where 1 whitefish and 1 yellow-tail were caught. Tho second was at hydrographic station 1()32, 26 fathoms, where 15 whitefish, 5 rod rocklish, and 2 fat-heads were taken. One cultus-cod, 1 yellow-tail, 2 red rockflsh, and 1 whitefish were the total results of about twenty miunies' fishing at hydrographic station 1633, depth 43 fathoms. The tish took the bait less eagerly than on the preceding trials, and we observed that tho vessel had drilte)y driftiiiK in n little jtn'ly, iiihI AKiight fihiinj^o ol {Mmitiori to luthorsiilo might hiive brought im ovtirgooilgrouiuL Twrniy- two V. aiiuiu'h, 1 1 rod i-ocktiDh, iind 'J, fut-h«ud8 were siilisrqiioiitly secured in twenty minutoH at iiy.iro- >;rii[ihic statiuti l(W9, 30 fathouiN; mid 11 fat-ho:id8, 4 yotlow-tailH, 1 hlnck rocktisb, »nd i Hcorpiim (dcorpcvna tjutlnlv.) in a tow minutes, iit hydrojjrupliic Ntation l64t'. 11 fathoms. The liwt trial of rhe day wiw made nhortly iifter ilivrk :u hydrograpliic station 1641, 51 fathoms, for the purpose c-f ", tor- mining the ctt'ects of darkness upon the fishing. The results seemei' to prove that the flsh will imt bito after dark, uh we wore tu a gi/i.<( locality and could feel the tlsb coDBtantly striking agaiu^'i "iir leads and liuvts, but not a Bin^;le speeimen was taken on the hooks, Cortes Blink was found to bo the nntst proniisin,r iffshore lishing-i^round on the California ('(i;i»f. soHtb of gun Friiuciftco. It has an area of 51 H<|uai<'. miles, with tleptbs less than W) fathoms. Tlie deeper parte of the bank have been surveyed to a slight extent only, but it is probable tb»t sood lislting will also he found outside of the 50-fathom limit, The shoai part of the bank is about 15 iiiilm lon^' (WNW. and ESE.V, i*^- center being in about latitude 32'^ 26' 30" N., longitude IW 08 W. Hifibop's Kock, which reaches to within 2^ fathoms of the surface, lies in latitude 32° 25 40" N., lon- gitude 110' Ofi W W. A Kshing vessel at anchor on the bank to winaward of this rock would prob- ably f.nd it extremely uncomfortable if caught out in a hi.vtvy gale ; but as the reek is small, a Rtunnch nehoonor could work out by it into deep wate', if not anchored too near it when the storm began. Pwivions to the hivestigatioDs of the Albairo:!! iiothintf was known respecting the fooatislica iuliiibiting thin baiili.. The douixnd fi>r tlNh alonj? this part of the coast in no limited at present that the Usherinen do nf)t lltid it ueecssitry fc, venture outside of a lOW headlands in search of nt - groiiiidii. They can give but little authentic infnrtiiiitiim r»'s|,iei;ti«g the tisSiing- grounds 25 to 30 miles off tlio coast. The fishing aieas adjactni to 8im Diego anil Siintu Harbora are sufticient for the immeili.rw reiinirtMuents of those places, but with a considoraldc increiise in population, nwre distiuit and deeper grouiuis Avill have to be sought for, nec(«gsitating the building of a larger and Ivetter class of fiMliiiij,' Voats. Smull vessels piitterned after the eaf.tern v,'»dl oi s^uack boatit e'ould make (inick and j.Ue passages to and from (JiH'tes Ditiik. A vvct'k or :i, fortnight conld be t'peut, il necessary, in ubiain- »ng a fare, and by ♦!:« end of that tiu'o fish would still be in go«Kl prewerTiiti«ui, whereas the pivtioDt methods compel the ti»hcrniet> to market their tish daily to prevent their becoming nnilt for aalc Twelvtj .'il atioiis weto made, (m mul about Cortes Bank wifb the dredges, tal;(.(le^", and beam ti;sv.l. Tlii-y Jiie as foIlihWH: No, 291 i, 6(1 fatlioni.s; No. 15913, 10 ratluiMi;!; IJo. LIU."., 2f. fathoms: No, 2914, 2ii fatlfoiiiH: No. 2915, 55 fathoins; No. U9i«i, !,»i fiitttoinis; N(>.2yiV,99tathomtt; No. .2918, (17 forhoma; Ho,2!»19, S>H-t .fafhoins (aboai !:.'■; tiiiUM fwrntluvoat ot BiiUiop Rock); No. 2920, 87 ItvUiomB ; No. 2921, 145 fatlionss; ' i. 2922, 47 lathoms. Deepwea Houiidiiig"« were ran from Tanner Bank to San NieVias Island and to ilu' soatliern iMjtl of San CleiiniMite Island, A third line conuectH €ortc« Bank witli tlif- re,i,:ioi! ort Point Loina. Tlie Itttter ({csvt'loptvd a series of elevations and lievife^oioDs over wliiwh tlie deptlis varied from 211 to l,(i>47 fiitl)on)8. The Ixjllowiiijf are the principal lood-lisht's obtained on ite« Bank by the use of baud lines r Serrnttun c>athralu/>, Kock bass. Slereolopi.t ffigm, .le-wfisb. DravhcrojfHt imU-iier, Fat-heaa»UMiee paticiipiniKy .Im'Ik. tfaridim, Yellnw-tail rock fish. weltitiofm, Hlack rocktisb. myttinu*, Blauk roekiliab. Sf.fiastotirii miiitiaaiii, Vermilion rockfinh vonHelUtluv, Hoekfmh. ro. where thej bat heav Irepreaeut^ [perch {Am Sevcrj iTbey jutidt Ihciids, rod jIso eniplo sloop visitt Diego. OtUf $iim mt t rial of i lie 'po8P c*' ', Icr- n fish 'will iitit ig agaiuHt iiiir ulifoinia vd-xM. fatbotnH. ilif ,blo tb»t, ;roo(l about 15 iiiiltm lo 119= 08' W. i5 40" N., lon- 'k would prol)- nall, a ntuiincli >rin began. the fooii-lislii's ireHOit ctmt the f in ■ jta luit and (Icrjicr class of lisliin); luick and 3.1 fr lury, in ubl;iin- aan. tho pix'Moiit it for iiilf. yert, tHll|.!le^', 10 Mluiiii:); ^fu. 'jaui, !-»:! ii«(ulMnil !-' atliouss; ' >. id iiinl U) ilu' ink witii tbf by the use i>f Vieinity of San (Jlemente Island. — While i>assinff up tlu' coast on the voy^po to San Francisco, in May, 18H8, a short stof) was nuule in S«iu|ifgh>i' Cove at the ^M)uth- easteru end of San Clemeute Island, br.t only shore collecting was attempted. Sub- 3e(|uently the beam fei'awl was hauled successfully in a dei)th of 414 fathoms, gray saud bottom, about 7 miles off the nortliern end of the same island (station 2830). The region was again visited on January 23 and 25, 1.S89. In the evening on the former date, a gill net was set in Smuggler Cove, a>':l was allowed to remain down over night, but, although a scIkk)! of llsh, supp.>. jd to be herring, was seen at the surface, nothing at all wai? caj>tured. The exceeding phosphorescence of the watt^r, which imparted a glow to the entire net, may imve been accountable for their failure m m.' >. On the 25th a party was landed at the southeasrern end of tlie island, where they found an excellent beach for a-nning, altiumgh the surf was running some- what heavily at the time. Repeated hauls were made with the net, securing a good representation of the shore fishes, among which were large numborp of viviparous per(;h {Amphistitm argenUfua) and a few smelts. Several fishermen belonging to a San Diego sloop were encamped on the island. They made use of hand lines, tiahing "n depths jf 30 to 40 fathoms, and obtaining fat- heads, rockfish, whitefish, etc., whi«'h were split and salted. Short trawl lines were also employed at times, end traps were set for capturing salt-water crayfish. The KJooj) visited the island once every week cv ten days and carried the catch to San Diego. Gulf 0/ Santa Oataliua ami the yegion off Sa:% Diego. — Two lines of deep-water Sfjuiidinga, including a few dredgmg-stations, were ru;. through the (iulf of Santa I'atidina from off Point Lonia, one in the direction of Point Fermin, tiie other extend- in;: through the passageway between Santa Catalina and Suii Clemeute Island. A third lii-e exteitda from off Point Loma to (Nu-tes Hank, i^s eKplained above. In atldi- tion to these a number «if tlredging and tithing trials were miwle directly off San IMego and aliout Irt>R C.f>ronjMlos. The dredging stations were distribute*! as follows : No, 2!)37, 35l> fathoms, t>;'ar tbe cxMiter of the Gulf of Santa Catalina; No. 2923, 822 fathoms; No. 2924, UiTt faluoms; No. 2925, 3.39 fathoms r No, 292«i, 09 fathoms ; No. 2929, (523 fathoms ; No. 2934, .Mi fathoms ; N'o. 2f''35. 124 fathoms, and No. 29.30, .3.'>9 fathoms, off San Diego, within a maxinmm distance of 15j^ miles frtim land; No. 2^)30, 00 fathoms; No. 2931, 34 fathoms; No. 2932, jD fathoms, aud No. 2933, 30 <'tii horns, in close prox'mity to Los C()rorja, lutittido ;W "J.'i .\'., Ilnauitddo 117 18' W., Til fiitbiniw, "nvd rocklisb imd ( fat Ix-ud iM-in^ tiiUeii. Tim nt' aufiootw. tilt) cati-h fi.r tin* |tr«vi species are sometimes I'rery abuudant, V. C. i<., l89'->~i:i BMkn 194 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. Such fish as are taken in the vicinity of Los Gorouadon and 8,ftn Diego biiag from 3 to 4^ cents per pound. Very few are salted by the Italian fisliMrmen. tbe 8alt-fi»h trade bfjing monopoliEed liy the Chinese. The Italians fish with both hand Unm and liut> trawln. but chiefly with the former ou account of their ohb-tpnow. Traiuiuel nets are frequently used among the rocks close inshore, uud fish that will not readiJytake tiie hook areoften caught with them. Atrammel net*) fathoms long ami 2i fathoms or 40 meshe«L deep costs $25. A trawl of 500 hctoks, completely rigged, and including tii« basket in which it is co' le the southern side of the northern island the water Ik deeper, having an average depth of 45 fathouiM. In this latter plit<:e red rockflsh nra the priuciini! species taken. About 5 miles south of the southern island is u small shoa! ground sometimes resorti-(! to by San Diego fishermen. These two "spots" are the only offshore fishhig-grouads known in ihu immediate vicinity of San Diego. The Italian fishing boat previously referred to was a prijoitive affair about 18 feet long, 7 feet wide, and 2 feet deep, with a flat bottom. • » • The hand lines employed were as rudely con- structed as some of those made by the Alaskan Indians. Miiny sizes of lines were noticed with jtieces of lead attached. Each line is generally provided with 'earn H ta 5 hooks, fastened to short sncMwls arranged one above the other about 18 iuukes apart. This style of gear is found about Kadiak, Alaska. Demijohns of various sizes, tied to the buoy lines by their handles, nerve in place of keg buoys. The reason for using the former, m well as many other inconvenient devices, is their greater cheapness. Mr. Alexander aim furuishe8 the following notes respecting the mackerel, barra- cuda, and bonito in this region : While in San Diego several fishermen were oonsalted wlio were more or leas acquainted witli tlifi habits of the species of mackerel bciuuging to that part of the coast. According to theii statement*) these fish strike the coast in the vicinity of San Diego iu April and May on their way north. Tho.v are invnriably poor at that season, and, in fact, during in<;octc« hii» « been piwi- tively determined, and certainly not more than two vessels should be fitted out in the begirniiiK. All the evidence goes to prove, nmreover, that the Pacific nmckerel (.S'oomfeer eolias) is greatly iiifiiior in (luality to its Atlantic relative {Scomber ncombrm), and those eaten on the AlbalroH wore |>ni nouncod insipid. The fishermen of San Diego, Santa Barbara, and San Pe )»■ unknown in this region. A few are caught >.. gill nets, but large quantities are never taken at u i im« by either method. The greater part of the (•at«li is sold in Han Francisco. During the summer barracmla are al)undant al><>ut Han Diego and along the coast toward Simta Barbara, but after September they become scarce, although scattt^ring individuals are taken thi M»r round. Ten or 13 schooners and sloops, of from 10 to 28 tons each, Itelouging to 8>in Diego, ti 11 >» down the coaat of Lower {'alifornia a distance of about 170 miles in search of both barracuda ami bonito. The latter species is also sometimes eallwl Spanish maokerel. They ims caught by tnOliiiif, and, after being split down the back like mackerel, are salted iu bulk in the hold of the vcsh.I, the ■ame aa codfish. The catch Is chiefly lauded in San Diego, where the fish are dried on flaken und then shipped to the Sandwich Islands and China by way of San Francisco. \ FISHERY INVESTIGATIONS OF THE STEAMER ALBATROSS. 195 I i INVESTIGATIONS SOUTH OF CALIFORNIA. During the several tri|»8 made by the Alhatrons aoutliward from California very important fiahery, biologi'jal, and hydrogiaphic information has been obtained, but it is not intended t« malio more than a brief reference to these investigations in this con- nection. On the voyage from Norfolk, Va., to San Francisco, in the winter of 1887-88, observations were continued during the entire cruise, and after leaving the coasts of South America stops were made at the Galapagos Islands, Panama, Acapulco, La Paz, and several places olong the outer shores of Lower Oalitbrnia, During the early spring of 1889 a visit was paid to the Gulf ot California, and from January to April, 1891, the ship wjvs engaged uim)u a special scientitic investigation, under the direction of Prof. Alexander Agassiz, off the (^ast of Mexico, Central America, and Ecuador, including the region about the Galapagos Islands. OUTBR COAST OF LOWBR CALIFOBNIA. After completing the investigations on the coast of (Jrtlifornia, in February, 1889, the Albatross proceeded southward en route for the Gulf of California, but in order to examine certain reported dangers to navigation off Lower California the cruise was not made direct. A line of soundings was carried Hrst to Guadeloupe Island, and thence to the Alijos Rocks, in latitude 24^ 58' N., longitude 115° 52' 36" W., and to the Revillagigedo group, of which Clarion^ Socorro, and San Beuedicto islands were visited in the order named. Imiwrtant collections of fishes and other marine animals were obtained at each of these places and also by dredging in the intervening deeper waters. Interesting observations upon the physical and natural-history fejitures of the different islands were likewise made and have been published in the annual re|M>rt for 1888-89, pp. 432-436, 466-468, The hydrographic results have been summarized as follows by Capt. Tanner: HeportH of ialaudti, rookH, and rttefs iu tho regions recently travented by the Albatrom have been current from tiinit inituentorial. Thu U. 8. S. yi%rragaHMlt'» iuvestigatiuns reHiiltud ia their being fvpnuged from tlii- chiirte, but she gitve nH no information regarding the contour of the ocean bed, which iH thu only Hure method of deciding the exiotencu or non-oxiBteni-i^ of Hulimarine elevationH. Thif i^ap has been flllod by tho soundinga of the Albatroii, which prove detiuiteiy that those vigian do uut exist in the iwsitions assigned them. Another important problem ha« been solved. The chain of iBlaneing obtained. An account of the work acei)ip. 1-05. [In this report the Investiga- tions of 1888 are discussed in geographical sequence beginning at the north. It contain.'^ i wo large charts, one covering tlie flshing-groundH oft" the south side of the Alaska Peninsula, the other showing tlie operations on the coasts of Washington and Oregon as far south as lilla mook Rp. 279-288. [Contains three charts on a scale sufficiently large to serve for navigation purposes, as follows: Bristol Bay and Alaska Peninsula, showing all the llshing-bauks located in the former; Port MoUer and Herendeon Bay, and the lowitr Nushagak River.] 11. A preliminary report ou the fishes collected by the steamer Albatro$t on the Pacific coast of North America during the year 1889, with descriptions of twelve new genera and ninety-two new species. By Charles H. Gilbert, Proc. IT. 8. Nat. Mus., xiii, pp. 49-126, 1890. 12. Descriptions of thirty-four new species of fishes collected in 1888 and 1889, principally among the Santa Barbara Islands and in thn Gulf of California. By Charles H. Gilbert, I'roo. U. S. nca to Lower Nat. Mus., XIV, pp. 53Jt-5«6, 1891. 13. Report upon certain investigations relating to the planting of oysters in southern California. By Charles H. Gilbert. Hull. II. S. Fish Comm., ix, for 1889, pp. <>^-98. [Illustrated by maps of AlamitoH Bay and Newport Entrance, California, and the vicinity of Guaynias, Mexico.] 14. Report upon the pearl fishery of the Gulf of California. By Charles H. Towuseud. Bull. U. S. Fish Ciunm., ix, for 1889, pp. 91-M, 3 plates. 15. Report of observations respecting the oyster resources and oyster fishery uf the Pacific coast of the United SUtes. By Charles H. Townsend. U. 8. F. C. Rept. 18811-8L pp. 343-372, platesC-ll. 16. Report on the fisheries of the Pacific coast of the United States. By J. W, Collins. Report U. S. Fish Comm., xvi, for 1888, pp. 3-269. 17. Three letters from Alexander Agaasiz to the Hon. Marshall McDonald, U. S. Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries, (m the dredging operations otf the west coast of Central America to the Onla- pagos, to the west coast of Mexico, and in the Gulf of Califoniia, in charge of Alexander, Agassiz, carried on by the U. 8. Fish Commission steamer Albatrons, Lieut. CouiuiauJer Z. L. Tanner, U. 8. Navy, commanding. Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., xxi, No. 4, pp. 185-2T. CaUfoi-Kia, Oregon, and irathington, 18«9.— This edition Aot» not embody any of the work accnmpliBhiMi by tho 8teniii»r Albaln>»H, hiiving been published at tu« early a date. Alatka. — Thi- piiltlisht'd (>diti(in of tht- Alaska Coaj^t Pilot is e\haii»t«l, ami » imw edition is now in course of preparntiun. It will inoliide the resulta of the Alkulro— iuvetttigatiuns on the Aliiskiin coast to date. SAIUXa CHAKTB. 5000. San Diego to Point Arena, California. Scale, 1 : 1,200.000. 5050. Snn FranRiH(M) Buy to the .Striiit of Juan de Fuca. Scale. 1:1,200,000 6400. Seaooiutt and interior Imrhors of Washington, from Grays Harbor to Olympia, including Wnsli- ingt^in Sound. Scale, 1 : 300,000. 7000. Cape Flattery, Wash., to Dixon Kntnince. Alaska. Scale, 1 : 1,200.000. 8000. Dixon Entrance to Cupe St. ?:iiaM, Alaska. Sale. 1 : 1.300, 000. 8001. Inland passages, Olympia. Wash., to Momit St. FJlas, AUaka. Scale. 1 : 1,200,000. 8500. Icy Bay to Seniidi Islands, Alaska. Scale. 1 : 1.300,000. S. San Francisco to Bering Sea. Scale, 1 : 3.000.000. T. General chart of Alaska. Scale, 1 : 3,600,000. in-' if lie GENERAL COAST AND HAJIBOB CHART& CaUfornim. 5100. San Diego to Santa Monica, including the Galf of Santa Catalina. Scale. 1:200,000. 5200. Santa Monica to Point Conception, including the Santa Baroara Channel. Scale, 1 : 200,000. 5241. Auacapa Island and eastern part of Santa Cmz Island. Scale, 1 : 30,000. 5300. Santa Rosa Island to Point Huohon. Scale, 1 : 200,000. 5400. Point Bnchon to Point I'inns. Scale, 1 : 200,000. 5487. Point Carmnl to Point Pinos. Scale. 1 : 12,000. Adjacent to the soathern end of Mont«rey Bay. 5491. Monterey Harbor. Scale, 1 : 40,000. 5498. Monterey Bay. Scale, 1 : 60,000. 5600. Point Finos to Bodegu Hea«l, Culifomia. Scale, 1:20,000. Inclndea Monterey flay and a part of the region off San Francisco. 5681. San Francisco Entrance. Scale. 1:40,000. 5599. Drake Bay. Scale, ] : 40,(M)0. 5000. San Francisco to Point Arena. Scale, 1 : 200,000. I nclodea a part of the region off San Franoiscn. 5618. Tomales Bay. Scale, 1:30,000. 6627. Bodega Bay. Scale, 1 : :«),000. 5700. Point Arena to Cape Mendocino. Scale, 1 :200,00a 6800. Cape Mendocino to Point St. George. St-ale, 1:200,000. 6000. Point St. George, (.'alifornia, t« Umpqua Rirer, Oregon. Scale, 1:200,000. 5052. Cuiie Orford and Keef. Scale, 1 : 40,000. 6000. Umpqua River to Ca]M! Lookout. Scale. 1:200,000. 6100. Cape Lookout, Oregon, to Grays Harbor, Wash. Scale, 1:200,000. 6149. Approaches to the Columbia Kiver. ^Scale, 1 : 200,000. 6100. Approaohea to the Columbia River. 6149. Approaches to the Cidumbia River. Cape Flattery. Sc^le, l:40,00a n'ashimglom Scale, l:2m,000. Scale. l:200,00a FISHERY INVESTIOATIONS OF THE bTEAMEK ALBATROSS. 201 AUuka. »I51. Middleton iHlanil. Honle, 1:130,000. K8K1. Semiili Uland and ('hirikaf IhIuihI. Scale, 1 : 400,000. 8881. .Skiiniagiii IslaiidH. Scale, 1 : 447,000, with tli« following harbor iliarU : Northweitt ITarhor, Hcale 1:122,000; Northwest and Yukon burbon*, scale 1:04,000; Sjnii-unof Harbor, Hcain 1:!K),0()0; Eagle Harbor, scale 1 : 90,000; Fnlnioutb Harbor, Hcale 1 : 05,000. 88V1. Harbors in the 8bumagin Islands, us follows: Hiinborn Harbor, Hcale 1:40,000; Popof Strait and HuralMddt Harbor, scale 1:40,000; Coal Harbor, scale 1:20,000; ZacharefHkaia Hay, scale 1:100,000. 8891. Chignik Day, Alaska Peninsnla. Scale, 1:23,000. 8896. Alaska Peninsula and adjacent islands, from Coal Cape to Insannnkb Strait. Scale, 1 :59C,000. 8901. St. Pan! Harbor, Kiidiak Island. Scale, 1:62,000. 8901. Sannak Islands and Reefs; scale 1:490,000. Acherk Harbor; scabs 1 : 31, 000. 8901. Port MoUer, Alaska Peninsula. Scale, 1 : 133,000, 8901. Iliuliuk Harlmr, Unalaska. Scale, 1:9,400. 9007. Captain Bay, Unalaska. Scale, 1:43,000. 0HABT8 OF THE UNITED STATES HYDBOOBAPHIC OFFICE. OC'RA.N CHARTS. 68. Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean. 526. North Pacific Ocean, Sheet I, from the coast of ITnited States to 112<-' west longitude and from tho ct^nator to 2ft'' north latitude, with plan showing streams, currents, and drifts in the Pacifti; Ocean. 527. North Pacitic Ocean, Sheet II, from 110^ west longitude to 162-' west longitude and tvmn the equator to KS'- north latitude. 528. North I'acilic Ocean, Sheet III, from 160" west longitude to 150<^ east longitude and from the e<|vi:itor to 60' north latitude. 823a. South Pacifto Ocean, Sheet I, eastern Hheet, upper part. Inclnahu [Contains data from cable survey by steamer AlbalroM, winter of 1891-92.] It;i570 ir.j" > kc- IrlH. SO ,».-■ U-"" ir. r Plati LI. Malcolm A.Cudlifp. tlel. kll. U. S. r. C. 1 W2. Fi«h«fy InvMtigdiont o( th« Staanwr AlbtUoM. (To (act pac< JOJ, Plate LI. MatcuOn ACiuUt/^ ■ tlcl. Sum. U. S. F. C A "- MVNCOI'V Taken t M< Plate LII, ■«IUI •mII. U. &. r. C. 1892. Fi>l<«iy Innttigttiont of tht S<«*m«i AlbitroM, (To laco pig* 302.) Plate LIII. Bull. u S F. c. 1 ^^^H M.^ ^B 1- 4J ITS l„, IV.intAi 'IVlIU'lllVnliil SiKtWIN S-n --=-lit . Bull. U S F. C. 1893. Fithtiy Invvdigationt til th« Sl«im«i Albalrott. (To ftc* pag« JO}.) Plate LIV. Bull. I r S4 33 1 — Bull. U. S. r. C. IS92. Fithtty InvaiugatioiK ol< Plate LV. U S F. C 1892. Funoiy lny«i;igttioiii of tho Sti 38: 2134 asi r. S.Conimi s snon of H sh ainl F\.-'l mm v's iraj'skcill MV npiia M. « \ •tiiiiu<;;«iuiiei-. CHART N95 Pt.Argi^llo Cal.to Mkxi.'.xnHiu'noahvLine Takcu trom theU.S.Co^staiulGf-od.Mic Suivt>y SiiowixGTHK Ihi»u«M;iu\nucWouK oTilic 8-14 STKAMKTi Al.HATUOSS ' i ' n r . ^ r=Ji' '1113 213 ^"^ L Tofmcrlitoih- -•« ,26 loti 107 /»»\153 807 / i 40(5 Cortes Bank ^ i'lo iM«J i -« ,a-.. Bank l-^i' .so. 11 •MiAUitfi UK 3bG £99 COS ll!» 7-1 1 32 I 21 61 Plati LV.