The stock of Argentine hake is in good condition. The biomass is high, but fishing pressure remains a concern, especially when unreported catches are taken into account.
In fisheries using trawl nets, such as demersal ottertrawls, bycatch of vulnerable (ETP) species, such as seabirds, sharks and rays, is a concern. These nets disturb all life on the seabed and are often not very selective. Discards are high: approximately 30% of Argentine hake and possibly up to 40% of the total catch is discarded. Approximately 85% of the landings consist of Argentine hake. The fishery disrupts the food web, CO₂ emissions are moderate and lost fishing gear poses a high risk.
The stock is reasonably well monitored, but compliance with the rules is inadequate. Catch limits have been exceeded for years, and illegal discarding and underreporting occur. The lack of joint management by Argentina and the Falkland Islands also makes sustainable management more difficult.
Some fisheries participate in a FIP.