Analysis of the fishing season pattern of mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) using purse seine fishing gear at the Belawan Ocean Fishing Port, North Sumatra Province

Abstract

The fishery potential of mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) in the Malacca Strait has a high value. The fishermen at the Belawan Ocean Fishing Port mostly get the mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) in their fishing activity. This study aims to determine the pattern of fishing season for mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) at the Samudera Belawan Fishing Port. Secondary data analysis used the model Schaefer and the Fishing Season Index (FSI) for the last five years. The catching season is in January, March, May, June, August, and November. The peak season for mackerel scad (Decapterus macarellus) occurs in November (transitional season II) with an FSI value of 116.49% and the lowest in February (the west season) with an FSI value of 89.35%.