By-catch from AFBI Irish Sea Nephrops Trawl Research Surveys 1994 - 2018 dataset https://portal.medin.org.uk/portal/start.php?tpc=010_ae63c009044bf2f46c742920d1a6bbc3 This dataset contains information on bycatch of non-target species from the AFBI Nephrops Trawl Research Survey series between 1994 â?? present from surveys carried out in the Irish Sea. The primary objectives of this research surveys series are: â?¢ To study spatial variability in population structure and abundance of Nephrops and by-catch species. â?¢ To obtain information on temporal trends of population structure of Nephrops. â?¢ To study female maturity in Nephrops. Between 1994 â?? 2010 the Research Survey was carried out on a bi-annual basis in the spring and autumn of each year. During each of these research surveys between 18 - 32 stations were primarily sampled using a nephrops otter trawl net; similar to that used in the commercial fishery. In addition, at select number of stations, various net types were used to sample for a comparison between nets. Each sampled station comprises a 3-mile trawling lane. Towing speed across the ground varies with tide and weather a target speed of 3 knots is aimed where possible. From 2010 â?? present, the research survey was carried out on an annual basis in summer of each year (July/August) whereby sampling occurred at c. 24 fixed stations. 20190110