Pacific ocean perch and Atka mackerel research in the Pacific waters of the Northern Kuril Islands and Eastern Kamchatka in February-April 2024

Abstract

The aim: obtain data on the biology, distribution and abundance of the Pacific ocean perch, Atka mackerel, by-catch species, and monitor aquatic biological resources.
The methods: in the course of specialized fishing, fishing information was collected and ichthyological work was carried out according to the generally accepted methodology.
The newness: expeditionary work is a continuation of many years of scientific research on the state of commercial populations of valuable fish species in the western part of the Bering Sea and Eastern Kamchatka and the North Kuril Islands.
Results: concentrations of Pacific perch were noted in the area of Cape Kamchatsky, Cape Kronotsky, and in the area of Shiashkotan and Onekotan islands. The largest catches were recorded at Cape Kronotsky (2.25–5 tons/hour of trawling). The average length of the beaked perch decreased from north to south from 39 cm to 37 cm, weight — from 868 g to 681 g. The main concentrations of the Atka mackerel were noted in the area of Cape Afrika and Cape Kamchatsky (the largest catches are 8–10 tons/hour of trawling), at Kronotsky (5–9 tons/hour trawling) and Shiashkotan Island (15–40 tons/hour trawling). The average length of the Atka mackerel was 38–39.6 cm with a weight of 635–752 g.
The practical significance: the results of this work will be taken into account when developing and updating materials for forecasting the total allowable and recommended catch and recommendations for efficient fishing.