Northeast Arctic saithe (ICES subarea 1 and 2), Longlines

Northeast Arctic Saithe (ICES Subareas 1 and 2) has been scored low risk. The decrease in Spawning Stock Biomass (SSB) has been reversed with an increasing trend since 2011 At present SSB is above the Bpa level, which is used as a trigger level for action within the management plan. The optimal rate of fishing mortality for Maximum Sustained Yield (F_MSY)is not defined, but the fishing mortality is inside precautionary levels (below Fpa) and therefore the stock is not at risk of depletion. In recent years fishing mortality has fluctuated around the management plan target value of 0.32.  It is currently indicated to be below this level.

Northeast Arctic Saithe has been scored as very low risk. This is because scientific stock assessment is carried out regularly based both on fishery dependent and independent data and there is management plan for the stock. There is also adequate enforcement of fishery control rules in Norwegian waters where the large majority of the catch is taken.

The bycatch risk of this fishery has been scored a hign risk. This is because there are bycatches of golden redfish (Sebastes norvegicus), which is outside safe biological limits and Norwegian coastal cod which is a low level. The bycatch of non-commercial unregulated species is minor and there are virtually no discards. Incidental captures of seabirds and marine mammals are negligible. Appropriate mitigation measures and enforcement are in place.

The habitat risk of this fishery has been scored a very low risk.  This is because habitat impact is limited and is due mostly to that from anchors, and main line moving on the ground at hauling. Fishers avoid the key habitats to avoid damage to their gear. There is a system of designated marine protected areas, in proximity to which fishery is prohibited and there is adequate enforcement.