Atlantic Fisheries Research Document 1996/074
Biological update for haddock in Division 4TVW in 1995
By K. Zwanenburg
Abstract
From reported historical annual landings of as high as 55,000t (1965) and up to 20,000t from 1979 to 1987, this fishery was essentially closed in 1995 with reported total landings of just under 120t. Most of these landings were from Divisions 4VW by longline and otter trawl. The current size composition of this stock shows a relatively narrow range of length-classes.
With the removal of all fishing activity from the closed area in 1993 and a virtual closure of the fishery in 1994, exploitation has fallen to the lowest observed since 1970.
Under the assumption that the maturity schedules have not shifted, the present spawning stock biomass may be as low as 13,000t.
There are indications that the 1993 and 1994 year-classes maybe of above average abundance. These year-classes must be protected to promote stock rebuilding. The reduced exploitation which has been achieved over the past two years, if maintained in the near future, may aid in this rebuilding process.
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