April 15, 2003:  Wild Sablefish stocks increasing in Canada and U.S.

Sablefish stocks in both Canada and the United States are on the increase due to above average years classes recruiting into the commercial fishery. In Alaska, strong 1995 and 1997 year classes have resulted in a 21% increase in the commercial total allowable catch (TAC) in Alaskan waters for 2003 (increased to 20,900 tonnes in 2003 from 17,300 tonnes in 2002).

Above average recruitment in the southern U.S. waters off Washington, Oregon and California have also resulted in a TAC increase of 49% in 2003 (increased to 7,000 tonnes in 2003 from 4,700 tonnes in 2002)

The British Columbia TAC is expected to also expected to increase as a result of strong recruitment and increased stock abundance as indicated by the 2002 stock assessment surveys.  The 2003 Canadian sablefish TAC has yet to be announce but an increase of 20% or more are anticipated.

Coastwide, increases in harvest could exceed 6,400 tonnes in 2003, or 26% more than in 2002.  Strong recruitment should continue over the next several years and further TAC increases should follow.  Downward pressure on sablefish prices is expected.