The Icelandic research vessel Árni Friðriksson returned to port in Akureyri a few days ago after a week-long survey east and north of the country. The findings indicate that the capelin stock remains primarily north of Iceland and is only in the early stages of its spawning migration.
The survey found only small amounts of capelin in the leading edge of the migration, located northeast of Langanes. The quantities there were described as negligible.
Capelin spread along the shelf edge
Capelin was detected along the entire continental shelf edge, extending to the Kolbeinsey Ridge and west of it. The highest densities were recorded in this area.
Bad weather prevented further survey work farther west. Sea ice also blocked access to fishing grounds off the Westfjords.
The mission aimed to map the distribution of the capelin stock. The results will be used to plan and time the upcoming complete stock measurement.
Full survey planned next week
Based on the findings, Icelandic authorities plan to conduct a comprehensive survey of the capelin stock beginning next weekend.
Five vessels will take part. These include the research ships Árni Friðriksson and Þórunn Þórðardóttir, as well as the fishing vessels Barði, Heimaey and Polar Ammassak.
The complete survey is expected to provide a clearer picture of stock size and migration progress.
Early stage of migration
The results confirm that the capelin spawning migration east of Iceland is still in its early stages.
Further assessments will depend on weather and ice conditions, as well as the outcome of the complete survey later in January.