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Abstract
Objective: Analyze the Pacific hake (Merluccius productus) fishery in the northern Gulf of California from 2010 to 2021 to evaluate fleet performance, profitability, and implications for a quota system.
Design/methodology/approach: Information on fleet composition, fishing effort, catch efficiency, and economic indicators was analyzed for small and large vessels. Net cash flow, cost-benefit ratio, and return on investment were calculated. A break-even analysis was conducted to estimate the minimum harvest required to sustain fleet operations.
Results: Small vessels were more numerous and active, while large vessels showed 1.5 times higher efficiency. Average catch per vessel rose from 30 t in 2010 to 108 t in 2021, and CPUE in large vessels increased from 2 t/d to 6 t/d. In 2021, small vessels recorded negative returns (net cash flow: -MX$176,604; C/B=0.90; ROI=-10%), while large vessels achieved positive outcomes (MX$337,735; C/B=1.13; ROI=12%). Break-even analysis indicated that sustaining half the fleet required 7,798 t, equal to 75% of the proposed TAC.
Limitations/Implications: Market price variability and environmental fluctuations may affect results beyond the study period.
Findings/Conclusions: Quota systems must consider efficiency disparities. Implementing quotas, monitoring, and stakeholder participation is essential to prevent overfishing and ensure sustainability.