This paper presents an updated assessment for Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) at Heard Island and McDonald Islands in Division 58.5.2. Starting with the 2021 assessment model that was used to provide management advice, this paper presents a bridging analysis, sensitivity analyses, and proposes a new assessment model for 2023. The 2023 assessment includes: (i) updated catch data to 2023 and observations to the end of 2022 including new ageing data from the RSTS and commercial fishery, (ii) re-estimated growth parameters, and (iii) an updated annual cycle to reflect the recent timing of the RSTS survey taking place prior to the main fishing season. The new model is therefore based on the best available data and the most recent estimates of model parameters and model processes. Models were run using CASAL version 2.30-2012-03-21 rev. 4648 and Casal2 (version v22.08).
Based on the result of this assessment and the CCAMLR decision rules, we recommend that CCAMLR set a catch limit of 2660 tonnes for 2023/24 and 2024/25 in CM 41-08 for the Patagonian toothfish fishery in Division 58.5.2.