EU standing request on catch scenarios for zero-TAC stocks: cod (Gadus morhua) in Subdivision 21. Replacing technical service provided in November 2023

Please note: the present technical service replaces the one released in November 2023.

There is no targeted cod fishery in the Kattegat at present. Cod is mainly taken as bycatch in the Norway lobster fishery, hence the fishing mortality on the cod stock is closely linked to effort directed to Norway lobster. It is not possible to forecast short-term stock development. Catches and SSB have declined in recent years, with a slight increase in catches in 2022, while mortality has increased.

Since cod are taken as bycatch in mixed fisheries, it is likely that a specific monitoring TAC would not be required for this stock.