Size and age composition of the catch of chub mackerel Scomber japonicus from the gulf of California

Size and age composition of the Pacific mackerel Scomber japonicus catch in the gulf of California were estimated during 1984 at 1993. This period was characterized by a intermediate level of catches from an apparent increase in the population. Composition in size and age of the catch was integrated by fishes from 83 to 312 mm standard length (SL), and from 0 to 7 years old. The highest catches were registered during spring-summer mainly by organisms >228 mm SL. The recruitment of fish 3 years) prevailed between December and April when the reproductive season is observed. Catch in the years of maximum production (1985, 1992 and 1986) was integrated between 50% and 78% by organisms from two year-classes. The most important year-classes were 1983, 1984, 1986 and 1989 which were detected in the fishery up to seven years. The chub mackerel fishing in the gulf of California was sustained by the population's fraction that at least has reproduced once.