Abstract

The Gulf of Mexico greater amberjack stock condition was analysed using data on commercial landings, recreational and headboat catches, and length samples collected since 1987 from Florida through Texas. Estimated annual combined commercial and recreational catches of the Gulf of Mexico greater amberjack peaked in 1989 at about 800,000 fish and 14 million pounds. Landings were mainly off the west coast of Florida and Louisiana. Commercial landings were from 15 to 40% of the estimated total annual landings. Recreational catches of greater amberjack declined by about 88% from 1989 to 1995 while commercial catches declined by about 91% in numbers and 39% in weight. The estimated age composition of the commercial catch was mainly fish ages five or less with older fish occurring rarely. Recreational and headboat fishermen caught fish mainly ages two through four. Age one fish were caught mainly by headboat anglers. A shift in the age structure of the catch to older fish occurred with the implementation of recreational and commercial minimum size limits in 1990. ADAPT VPA analyses indicate fishing mortality on adult fish, ages 4+, was about 0.8 in 1988 and 1989 declining in 1990 by about 50%. Estimated spawning potential ratios computed using ADAPT VPA results through 1994 indicated the Gulf of Mexico greater amberjack stock is not over-fished.

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