The Cornwall Bass Investigations Group are a group of volunteer citizen scientists who conduct juvenile bass surveys on the Helford, Fal, and Camel estuaries in Cornwall. These surveys were the brainchild of Dr Pamela Tompsett of the Helford Marine Conservation Group (HMCG), and Donovan Kelley MBE. They were started on the Helford by Derek Goodwin MBE in 1994, with surveys on the Fal commencing in 2000. Limited surveys on the Camel began on a trial basis in 2021. Derek led the group until 2021, at which time he handed over the reins to Robin Bradley, while still maintaining an advisory role. The group has close links to both the HMCG and the Bass Anglers’ Sportfishing Society.
The purpose of the surveys is to provide an assessment of the strength of each successive year class and its growth, and to monitor any adverse effects on the survival of bass during their first winter caused by prolonged very cold spells. The data we produce provides additional evidence for monitoring bass stock levels. The surveys provide a valuable long-term time series of data, which has been used in scientific research papers on the environmental and biological drivers of bass recruitment.
The work is fascinating and great fun! Anybody with an interest in fish (not just bass – we see lots of other fish), fishing, or conservation, will enjoy the surveys, which take place in some beautiful surroundings. There is no obligation or minimum number of surveys you should do – just volunteer for any that are convenient for you.
If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer to help with the Cornish Bass Investigations Group you can contact Robin Bradley via email: bradley4ne@btinternet.com. You can visit their website and see their amazing work with the link button below.
