Introduction of hook size as a tool for management measures of harvest control rules to improve grouper stock in Indonesia

Harvest control rules have been recently developed for some fisheries in Indonesia, including grouper fisheries, and are expected to reverse the trend of declining stocks. One of the proposed options of the harvest control rules is to implement the catch size limit. The catch size limit approach, however, is challenging, unless it is supported also with strong fisheries surveillance, law enforcement, and innovation. The catch size limit approach can be done by implementing changes in fishing methods and gear, including the application of different hook sizes in the hook and line fishing gear. This study examines the impact of different hook sizes on the length at first capture (Lc) and on the bell-shaped maximum selectivity using various selectivity models of the two targeted grouper species (Plectropomus leopardus and Plectropomus maculatus) in the Saleh bay, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. We found that increasing hook size influences the grouper’s catch size, increasing the Lc and the bell-shaped maximum selectivity of both species. Based on our findings, hook size can be used as one of the practical tools for grouper management measures, as part of harvest control rules to improve grouper stock in Indonesia.