Fishing mortality rates for populations of commercial species are equal to or lower than the maximum sustainable yield (MSY). The indicator “Fishing Mortality Rate” is used to assess the status of three elements: fish species (Gadus morhua), herring (Clupea harengus) and sprat (Sprattus sprattus).

The biomass of spawning stocks in populations of commercial species exceeds the biomass levels that can ensure the maximum sustainable yield. The indicator “Spawning stock biomass” is used to assess the status of three elements: fish species: cod (Gadus morhua), herring (Clupea harengus) and sprat (Sprattus sprattus).

The age and size distribution of individuals in populations of commercial species indicates that they are in good condition. Older / large individuals must make up a large proportion and the negative impact of resource use on genetic diversity must be small. Indicators to be assessed: 1) 95th percentile of fish length distribution based on records from research vessels: cod (Gadus morhua), herring (Clupea harengus), sprat (Sprattus sprattus), flounder (Platichthys flesus). 2) Proportion of fish above the average first sexual maturity rate: Gadus morhua (> 35 cm), Clupea harengus (> 16 cm), Sprattus sprattus (> 12 cm), Platichthys flesus (> 21.5 cm).