Review of the efficacy of the early season extension in the Patagonian toothfish fishery in Subarea 48.3 and proposal for further season extension

In 2009 CCAMLR agreed to incrementally and conditionally bring forward the start date of the Patagonian toothfish fishery in sub-Area 48.3. This allowed vessels that had been 100% compliant with CM 25-01 in the previous season to start 5-days early in 2010 (April 26th) and a further 5 days early in 2011 (April 20th). In 2011, following the success of the initial trial, CCAMLR agreed to further conditional extensions, such that the season could start on the 16th April in 2012 and April 11th in 2013. The season extensions have been successful and no birds were killed during the extension in either 2012 or 2013. Given the success of the trial, it is proposed that the start date of the season be brought forward to the 16th April and that a further two trial extensions (each of 5 days) be allowed.