Release of artificially reared 0-group coastal cod (Gadus morhua L.) in a landlocked fjord in western Norway

Abstract

In 1983 and 1984 about 14 000 seven month old pond or basin reared coastal cod were tagged and released in Heimarkspollen and Osen in Western Norway. In May 1984 fishing in the release areas was initiated and local fishermen were asked to report recaptures. Growth of released cod was at least as good as growth of wild cod in the area. The 1983 release contributed about 30% of this yearclass in Osen and about 50% in Heimarkspollen. The 1984 release contributed about 80% of this yearclass in Heimarkspollen. There seems to be no difference in food preference between released and wild cod. The reared cod are very stationary.