Recreational and commercial fisheries for king mackerel, Scomberomorus cavalla, in the South Atlantic Bight and Gulf of Mexico, U.S.A.

Date

1978

Authors

Manooch, C.S., III.

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Abstract

United States commercial landings of king mackerel, Scomberomorus cavalla, have been recorded fairly regularly since 1880. Catches over the last 17 years have averaged 5.6 million pounds (2,541 metric tons) valued at 1.3 million dollars. The largest catch in recent years was made in 1974; 10.5 million pounds (4,764 m.t.). The bulk of the landings are made in Florida by hook and line and gill nets. Recreational catch statistics are insufficient from a managerial standpoint. Most studies have been limited by being too localized or of short duration. National surveys made in 1956, 1970, and 1975 in general, present species catch data which are viewed with skepticism by most fishery scientists. Ratios of recreational to commercial (R/C) landings are 19.7, 9.3, and 1.3 (x= 9.1) for the three years. Anglers capture king mackerel primarily from charter boats, small private boats, piers, and bridges by trolling, casting, or float fishing. Certain biotic and abiotic factors are discussed which should influence the use and management of the resource. These include rate of growth, longevity, age and size at sexual maturity, fecundity, feeding, natural mortality, migrations, and habitat characteristics.

Description

24 p.

Keywords

marine fish, king mackerel, Scomberomorus cavalla, finfish fisheries, sport fishing, sport fishing statistics

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