Science Advisory Report 2010/032

Assessment of the west coast of Newfoundland (Division 4R) herring stocks in 2009

Summary

• In 2009, herring catches from the west coast of Newfoundland (NAFO Division 4R) totalled 20,236 t for a TAC of 20,000 t. For the second consecutive year, allocations for all fishing fleets were reached. Catches from the bait fishery are not recorded and could be very significant.
• The most significant herring catches have been made using the purse seine in unit areas 4Rc and 4Rb. Catches from large (>65') and small (<65') seiners respectively totalled 11,170 t and 4,415 t compared to annual averages (2000-2007) of 10,052 t and 3,223 t.
• A new fishing gear used since 2005, the “tuck” seine, caught 3,779 tons of herring in 2009. The "tuck" seine is a modified bar seine and is considered a fixed gear.
• A first series of biennial acoustic surveys took place between 1991 and 2002. A new survey series began in the fall of 2009. The total biomass index of fall-spawning herring assessed by this survey was similar to that measured in 2002.
• According to the acoustic survey, the total biomass index of spring-spawning herring continued declining to 6,000 t in 2009. In 2002, spring herring accounted for 32% of the combined biomass of the two spawning stocks compared to 8% in 2009.
• The abundance of the spring component continued to decrease even though management measures have been introduced since 1999 to protect this stock’s spawning activities. Considering the lack of reconstruction of the reproductive component, it is recommended to maintain these management measures.
• Catches are now made up in large part of fall-spawning herring. In recent years, catches of about 20,000 t have been supported by a strong year-class. It is unlikely that this type of catch level can be sustained without the occurrence of a strong recruitment.
• It is recommended to disperse fishing effort along the coast and throughout the year to promote the conservation of the two herring spawning stocks on the west coast of Newfoundland.
• It is recommended that the bait fishery be closely monitored in order to estimate catches.
• Without abundant recruitment, the current catch level (20,000 t) should not be increased in 2010 and 2011. The 2010 acoustic survey should clarify the status of both reproductive components.

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