Bottomfish rod and reel survey services

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking bids for Bottomfish Rod and Reel Survey Services through a Request for Qualifications/Quotation (RFQQ 25-00011). The procurement aims to secure survey fishing services, including a vessel, equipment, operator, and crew to conduct research on rockfish and bottom fish in the Westport area. The contract period spans from October 8, 2025, through May 31, 2026, with potential renewal for up to six years. The solicitation anticipates approximately 15 charter days, with 3 days in October 2025 and 12 days from March to May 2026, with a maximum of 25 total charter days. Evaluation criteria include cost (30%), which covers daily rates and deployment expenses, experience (50%), and vessel suitability (20%). Key dates include a pre-bid conference on August 19, 2025, bidder questions due by August 22, 2025, and proposals due by September 23, 2025, with an anticipated successful bidder announcement around October 1, 2025. Mandatory qualifications require specific vessel capabilities, safety standards, appropriate licensing, insurance, and crew experience, with the selected contractor needing to provide a vessel capable of supporting up to 15 participants for scientific research on rockfish population trends, growth rates, and migration.

The procurement is structured to prioritize small businesses and veteran-owned businesses, with a potential 5% bid price reduction for evaluation purposes for qualifying vendors. The contract is estimated to be valued at less than $150,000, with WDFW intending to award to the lowest responsive and responsible bid from a small business or veteran-owned business. The solicitation covers jurisdictions including Grays Harbor County, Chelan County, Pacific City, Chelan City, and Clarkston Heights-Vineland CDP. While no incumbent vendors are specifically mentioned, the contract requires a vessel with precise technical and operational specifications to support marine research activities. The procurement focuses on gathering critical scientific data about marine fish populations through specialized survey methods, emphasizing the importance of selecting a contractor with appropriate marine research capabilities and equipment. Potential respondents should carefully review the detailed requirements in the RFQQ document, particularly the specifications for vessel equipment, crew qualifications, and research support capabilities.