WGIDEEPS supports sound, peer-reviewed, and integrated scientific advice on fishery management. The surveys are the primary basis for advice on the stock status of pelagic redfish in the areas.
In addition to stock assessment, survey results are necessary for mapping the vertical and horizontal distribution of beaked redfish, collecting biological data on other fauna, and monitoring environmental conditions.
Surveys have been conducted on pelagic beaked redfish in the open Irminger Sea since 1983 and the Norwegian Sea since 2007, mainly to collect biomass estimates. These surveys have been conducted by individual nations or in collaboration between nations. The area coverage and methodology have varied, however, with area coverage often limited in the early years.
The surveys are mainly hydroacoustic, but pelagic trawling has also been used since 1999. Over time, both the horizontal and vertical coverage has increased as earlier surveys were not considered sufficient for stock assessment purposes.