Ocean shrimp report 1977 season

Abstract

Statewide Pacific ocean shrimp, Pandalus jordani, landings totaled 15,639,585 lb, more than triple the 1975 record catch of 4,992,233 lb. Record landings were recorded in Area A (Eureka-Crescent City), Area B-2 (Bodega Ray) with catches totaling 13,025,844 and 2,028,607 lb, respectively. Area B-1 (Fort Bragg) landings totaled 585,133 lb and no landings were reported from Area C (Avila-Morro Bay). In Area A the average catch per hour for the season for single-rig vessels was 1,241 lb and 2,228 lb for double-rig vessels. Area B-2 average catch per hour by the single-rig vessels was 2,536 lb. Two-year-old (1975 year class) shrimp dominated the catches in all areas. The outlook for the 1978 season in all areas is questionable because of the relatively weak showing of the incoming 1977 year class but it might make a significant contribution if abundant and of a marketable slze. (19pp.)