Toothfish are harvested in Area 48 (Subarea 48.3) and Area 58 (Subareas 58.6 and 58.7, and Divisions 58.5.1 and 58.5.2); there is sufficient information available from this fishery to provide appropriate assessments of potential yield. Annual catches in recent years have ranged from 5 000 tonnes to 17 000 tonnes. Several new and exploratory (unassessed) fisheries have also been prosecuted, some targeting both Patagonian toothfish and Antarctic toothfish in the southern sectors of Areas 58 and 88. Toothfish are generally taken by longline (except for trawl fisheries in Divisions 58.5.1 and 58.5.2). All vessels carry observers appointed in accordance with the CCAMLR Scheme of International Scientific Observation.

Strict measures are in force to minimise the incidental capture of seabirds during longline fishing for toothfish. These include the use of streamer lines, weighted lines and thawed bait to ensure that baited hooks sink as quickly as possible. The setting of longlines is confined to night-time with minimal deck lighting, while the discharge of offal is prohibited during line setting (see Conservation Measure 25-02). Regulations are also in force for trawl fisheries, where the use of net monitor cables is prohibited (see Conservation Measure 25-03) to minimise the incidental mortality of seabirds and marine mammals.

The high levels of IUU fishing for toothfish in recent years are of grave concern, particularly in Area 58. These unregulated activities threaten toothfish stocks through overfishing as well as populations of seabirds through enhanced mortality resulting from incidental capture during longlining. CCAMLR has recognised the importance of bringing IUU fishing under control. Various initiatives have aimed to promote compliance by non-Contracting Party vessels, to implement licensing and inspection procedures for Contracting Parties (see Conservation Measures 10-07 and 10-02), to mark fishing vessels and fishing gear (see Conservation Measure 10-01), and to ensure compliance with CCAMLR conservation measures (see Conservation Measure 10-03). The unprecedented introduction of a Catch Documentation Scheme (CDS) (see Conservation Measure 10-05) has done much to monitor the landings of, and international trade in, toothfish – both key elements in understanding the global dynamics of the fishery as a whole.