Terms of Reference

Updated status of Units 1 and 2 Redfish in 2016

Zonal Science Response Process – Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador Regions

March 16, 2017
Mont-Joli, QC

Chairperson: Charley Cyr

Context

The stock status of redfish (Sebastes mentella and Sebastes fasciatus) in Unit 1+2 were assessed in March 2016 using survey-based indicators after an assessment model framework meeting in December 2015 meeting rejected both assessment model methods proposed. A new model framework meeting proposed for November 2016 was cancelled after investigations of historical catch cast doubt on official catch statistics from the late 1980s and early 1990s: a period of critical leverage in assessment model fitting. A full assessment using the newly accepted model was expected in March 2017 but without a model, could not be conducted. Therefore a Science Response was requested to update status of Units 1 and 2 redfish in winter 2017 using the latest data.

Objectives

Review the commercial fishery and the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) research survey indices to produce an update of the Unit 1 and 2 redfish stock status.

Expected Publication

• Science Response

Participation

• DFO Science Branch