Pollock power in the Bering Sea

The quota for Bering Sea pollock is likely to remain high next year based on the new stock assessment.

Government scientists are recommending an ABC (acceptable biological catch) of 2,800,000 metric tons, the highest level ever and well above this year's 2,090,000 tons.

The North Pacific Fishery Management Council will adopt the 2017 TAC (total allowable catch) at its December meeting in Anchorage.

For a number of reasons, the council typically sets a conservative TAC well below the ABC.

Based on the strong stock assessment, it appears the council will be free to set a TAC at least as high as this year's 1,340,000 tons.

Bering Sea pollock is Alaska's largest fishery by volume.