Science Advisory Report  2009/027

Assessment of the Estuary and Northern Gulf of
St. Lawrence (Areas 13 to 17, 12A, 12B, 12C and 16A) Snow crab stocks in 2008  

Summary

• Generally, Quebec North Shore stocks are characterized by a significant proportion of recruits and by a stable or slightly decreasing commercial biomass which will drop in upcoming years. Stocks in the Estuary and Gaspé Peninsula have recently experienced a significant drop in terms of commercial biomass, which had been stable in 2008 following a sharp drop in TACs. Recommendations for 2009 vary from stabilizing to moderately increasing the TACs where the commercial biomass and crab size are still high.
• Advices for 2009 encourage the maintenance of an adequate reproductive biomass for males so as to not adversely affect the recovery or maintenance of the population in a given area. Recommendations assume that the natural mortality rate will not differ in 2009 compared with previous years.

In Area 17, the status quo is recommended for the 2009 TACs, which should help stabilize the commercial biomass.

In Area 16, since the catch rates and size are generally high, the TAC could be increased by 10% in 2009 compared to 2008 without negatively impacting the stock.

In Area 15, since the commercial biomass was still high and that only the western part of the area was exploited in 2008, it is recommended that the same TAC be maintained for 2009.

In Area 14, since the catch rates increased both in the fishery and in the postseason survey, a maximum TAC increase of 15% in 2009 compared to 2008 is recommended.

In Area 13, the available information does not provide for any change to the pre-established management plan for the 2009 fishing season.

In Area 12A, while awaiting a stronger recruitment, a 2009 TAC comparable to the 2008 TAC is recommended in order to avoid a drop in commercial biomass.

In Area 12B, in 2009, a slight TAC increase of around 10% from 2008 is recommended.

In Area 12C, since the abundance indices dropped in the postseason survey, the same TAC is recommended for 2009.

In Area 16A, a TAC increase of around 10% in 2009 compared to 2008 is recommended.

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