Black sea bass 2009 stock assessment update

"The northern stock of black sea bass (Centropristis striata) was evaluated using length-based population models. This new assessment approach was accepted by the Data Poor Workshop review panel (NEFSC 2009) and involved estimates of fishing mortality and population size determined from changes in size composition of the population. The panel accepted the results using a constant M=0.4 as the preferred model. The resulting F40% , as a proxy for FMSY, was equal to 0.42 with an associated spawning stock biomass (SSB) equal to 12,537 mt and MSY at 3,903 mt. The 2008 average F, resulting from a catch of 2,039 mt, was estimated at 0.28 and SSB at 12,882 mt. Therefore, the conclusion is that fishing mortality is below FMSY and the stock is above the optimal level of spawning biomass. These reference points and current stock status should be used with caution due to the uncertainty in the natural mortality estimate and the model input parameters as well in the uncertainty associated with management of protogynous species"--Abstract. by Gary R. Shepherd. "October 2009." Includes bibliographical references (pages 19-20).