The International Pacific Halibut Commission is requesting proposals from industry to provide bait for the year 2005 summer halibut surveys. The Commission will also consider direct purchases from salmon fishers, if the fisher can make proper processing arrangements.

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 2004. 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 275,000 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 processing, shipping, and/or storage costs. The bait may be stored at a central location and shipped in May of 2005, or shipped and stored in the approximate amounts and locations listed below:

If the proposal does not include shipping and/or storage, the proposal will be evaluated in consideration of the necessary shipping and storage costs to the Commission. Another point used in evaluating proposals will be the possibility of deferring all or a portion of payment until bait is removed from the storage facility. The Commission will not necessarily accept the lowest or any of the bids received.

Proposals must be received by 1700 PST October 1, 2004. Interested suppliers may send a letter of proposal to the IPHC, Attn. Kelly Van Wormer; P.O. Box 95009, Seattle Washington 98145-2009; Phone (206) 634-1838, ext. 202 or Fax: (206) 632-2983.