Estimation of Exploitation Rates of Cod using Mark-Recapture Methods

Description

The findings of previous Atlantic Cod tagging and telemetry studies, which are used extensively to assess stocks, indicate that there are complex seasonal movements of cod within each management area. In this new series of projects, cod in Divisions 3Ps, 2J, 3K and 3L will be captured with hand-lines, measured, tagged, and some implanted with telemetry tracking transmitters before being released. Fish harvesters will assist with capture and release as well as the placement of acoustic receivers in strategic areas, from which data will be gathered regularly for analysis.

Tagging returns and telemetry data will be used to:

• estimate the reporting rate of tagged cod in each region;
• estimate the fishery exploitation rate (harvest rate) on an annual basis; and
• investigate the movement patterns of cod within and among stocks, and use the findings to inform the interpretation of trends in stock indices.

Program Name

Fisheries Science Collaborative Program (FSCP)

Year(s)

2007 -

Ecoregion(s)

Atlantic: Newfoundland, Labrador Shelves

Principal Investigator(s)

John Brattey
Fisheries and Oceans Canada