Preliminary results of a capelin survey give no reason for optimism

The coverage of four vessels in the capelin survey during 16-23th January 2025 The coverage of four vessels in the capelin survey during 16-23th January 2025

Preliminary results of a capelin survey do not give reason for optimism

As has been reported in Icelandic media, the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute's (MFRI) research vessel, Árni Friðriksson, along with three pelagic fishing vessels, Heimaey, Polar Ammassak and Barði, have been conducting capelin measurements since 16 January. Weather has delayed the surveys to some extent but has not had a significant impact on their results. The surveys are now well advanced and only some coverage of RV Árni Friðriksson remains off the Westfjords and will be completed on or after the weekend. 

Although the survey has not been completed, MFRI considers it appropriate to immediately report the preliminary results of the surveys up to 24 January. Off the east coast, adult capelin were observed in a large area with the highest density in the south (see below). Adult capelin were also present in the northwest, while almost none were seen off the north coast. The measurements of adult capelin that makes up the fishing stock for the season, amount to only about two-thirds of what was measured in September 2024. Hence, with the caveat that measurements are still ongoing off the west coast, it is foreseen that the results of the ongoing measurements will not lead to changes in the current fishing advice of zero catch.

It is expected that the results from this survey could be available either side of next weekend. Decisions on further measurements have not yet been made.

The tracks of four ships in a capelin survey, shown in different colours, from 16-23 January 2025 with colour-scale that represents the capelin density.


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