The International Pacific Halibut Commission is requesting proposals from industry to provide bait for the year 2004 summer halibut surveys. The 2003 survey is currently underway, and we have adequate bait for this year. This notice solicits proposals to provide bait for summer 2004.

The only bait used for the Commission's standardized stock assessment survey is Chum salmon. Due to the scientific nature of the study, our bait quality requirements and standardization exceed those normally provided by industry as "bait chums". The Commission's minimum quality requirement is #2 semi-bright (ASMI grade A through E), H&G, IQF, Chum salmon with "meat colored" flesh. The preferred size grade is 6 to 9 pound chums but smaller fish may be considered. The salmon must have been caught and processed no earlier than June of 2003. We require information on the month of capture and the run for each unit/tote of bait purchased. Bait may be inspected for quality prior to accepting a proposal.

The Commission plans to purchase about 296,000 pounds of bait, providing for survey operations from May into August. Interested parties may submit proposals to provide all or only part of the total amount. Proposals should include shipping and/or storage costs. The bait may be stored at a central location and shipped in May of 2004, or shipped and stored in the approximate amounts and locations listed below: