Biology and management of the Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus Tilesius) resource in the eastern Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska. In: The propagation of cod Gadus morhua L.: an international symposium, Arendal, 14 - 17 June 1983

Abstract

Pacific cod have been exploited in Alaska for over 100 years. Originally, the fishery was exploited in coastal waters by U. S. fishermen. This domestic fishery declined following World War I, ceasing by the early 1950's . In the mid-1950's Japanese and Soviet distant water fleets began operations in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. Pacific cod was primarily an incidental species in the harvests of these fleets. In recent years a U. S. cod fishery has redeveloped and is rapidly expanding. Coincidental to the renewed interest in a directed U. S. cod fishery has been a strong increase in Pacific cod abundance. Most of the increase appears to have been due to the occurrence of an exceptionally strong 1977 year-class. Since cod is becoming a major commercial fishery in the northeastern Pacific Ocean it is important to develop long term estimates of yield and accompanying management strategies. One shortcoming of such efforts is the short time series of cod data i n Alaskan waters. Some consequences resulting from above-average cod recruitment in 1977 and the current high abundance level are examined.