Variation of fisheries conditions of mackerel (Scomber japonicus) fishing ground for large purse seine fisheries

Abstract

In order to offer data about fisheries resources management and prediction of catch on large purse seine fisheries, the fluctuation of the fisheries condition and distributions of fishing ground for mackerel were analysed with monthly catch data for 1990.2009. The overall catch has decreased to about 70% since 1997, with approximately 70% of the mackerel (Scomber japonicus) catch and monthly fluctuations showing a similar pattern. Monthly distribution of fishing ground is like distribution of mackerel in large purse seine fishery. The main fishing grounds are near Jeju Island and the Yellow sea with the main fishing season existing between October to December. The catches fluctuations and distribution of fishing ground were related to the effect of regime shifts. Therefore, in order to prediction of catch on large purse seine fisheries should be studied these relationships.