A proposed research plan for an exploratory fishery for Dissostichus spp. in Division 58.4.3

A new fishery was declared for Dissostichus spp in Division 58.4.3 for the 1996197 season. Results of a brief survey by an Australian vessel are presented, but catches were very low. A new proposal for an exploratory fishery in Division 58.4.3 is presented. This involves a random stratified trawl survey to be undertaken in parallel with commercial exploration, and the collection of a comprehensive data set from both the survey and commercial operations.