The annual random stratified trawl survey was undertaken in Division 58.5.2 in the vicinity of Heard Island and McDonald Islands during March/April 2024. Based on data from this survey, this paper provides a preliminary assessment for mackerel icefish (Champsocephalus gunnari) population structure, abundance and yield in Division 58.5.2 using standard CCAMLR methods (CMIX and Grym).
The 2024 survey showed a large 1+ and 2+ cohort in the population and a high biomass. Based on the Grym implementation, catches of 1 824 t in the 2024/25 season and 1 723 t in the 2025/26 season satisfy the CCAMLR decision rules.
We recommend the catch limits in Conservation Measure 42-02 be set at 1 824 t in the 2024/25 season and 1 723 t in the 2025/26 season.