Terms of Reference

Development of a protocol for small fish for mackerel (Scomber scombrus L.) fishing purse seine in the Gulf of St. Lawrence

Regional Science Response Process – Quebec Region

December 4, 2013
Mont-Joli, Québec

Chairperson: Charley Cyr

Context

The last Atlantic mackerel stock assessment in NAFO sub-areas 3 and 4 was done in April 2012 and the next is planned for winter 2014 in Mont-Joli to provide scientific advice on fishing seasons 2014 and 2015. Meanwhile, due to a meeting between resource managers in January 2013, the Fisheries and Aquaculture management (DFO, Quebec) has asked the Regional Science Branch of the Quebec region that a protocol be developed for small fish fishing mackerel purse seine in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The purpose of this protocol is to ensure that the percentage of the catch of mackerel whose fork length is less than the minimum legal size (250 mm) shall not exceed 10%.

Objectives

The objective of the peer review is to:

• Validate the approach for the small fish protocol for seining mackerel in the Gulf of St. Lawrence

Expected Publications

• A Science Response

Participation

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) (Science)