Research Document 1998/70
Browns Bank North Scallop Stock Assessment - 1997
By G. Robert and M.A.E. Butler
Abstract
The 1996 and 1997 Browns Bank north landings have declined to early 1990's levels. The 1997 catch-rates were similar to 1996; they are higher than early 1990's though, as much as 50% on average. The 1992 year class is supporting the fishery. Survey results indicate that the 1993 and 1994 year classes are weak. The 1995 year class appears strong. There has been a small recruited biomass increase from 1996 to 1997. Given the small biomass increase and the high similarity in fishery performance indices between 1996 and 1997, the 1998 TAC could remain at the 1997 level. However, it is highly unlikely that present TAC levels could be maintained after 1998 due to the extreme patchiness and low overall abundance of incoming recruitment to the fishery.
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