Pacific Halibut opens March 6th!!!

29 January 2010

The International Pacific Halibut Commission meetings concluded in Seattle today.  March 6th is the announced opening date and the total quota for 2010 is 50.67 million lbs. (decreased 6.4% from 2009).  Keith represented Northport Fisheries at the Processor Advisory Group (PAG) sessions and was pleased that the Commission adopted both the PAG's recommended opening date and area catch limits for the first time in history!  Additionally, several 'hot' topics surfaced during the week and received particular attention: by-catch mortality, migration patterns and the decreased size of sexually mature halibut.  By-catch was the most talked about topic of the week fueled by a presentation to all groups (fisherman, processors and IPHC commissioners) from Canada’s Ocean and Fisheries urging consideration and cooperation from the US as a 'good neighbor' in reducing Halibut by-catch, even offering assistance if needed.  Another ‘hot’ topic was the continued decrease in average size of mature halibut.  IPHC surveys continue to show a decrease in average size of mature halibut and 2009 catches showed the smallest fish in recorded history.  That being said now is the time to really consider programs that utilize these smaller fish (10/20's) as they will continue to be abundant and larger fish limited in 2010.  Keith reported a conscientious effort by all groups to discuss these topics and feels the Commission should be applauded for their diligent work in maintaining Pacific Halibut as a sustainable resource for years to come.  For detailed results of the IPHC meetings and further information on current research being conducted please visit www.iphc.washington.edu. 

Look for our promotional flyer next week that will include a breakdown of quota by catch area.  With the frozen halibut market virtually dry we anticipate high demand for fresh from the start!

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