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To examine the spatial distribution of mackerel catches within South Korea's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) from 2011 to 2019, we evaluated the habitat suitability index (HSI) for mackerel using satellite-derived environmental data combined with government-provided catch data. The HSI is widely recognized for its capability in identifying and predicting potential fishing areas. By integrating mackerel catch records with satellite-based environmental variables such as Chlorophyll-a concentration (CHL), Sea Surface Temperature (SST), Sea Surface Height (SSH), and Primary Productivity (PP), we established optimal environmental ranges: CHL (0.32 to 1.6 mg m−3), SST (14.45 to 26.72°C), SSH (0.61 to 0.84 m), and PP (654.94 to 1,731.3 mg C m−2 d−1). Using these thresholds, we generated seasonal habitat suitability maps for mackerel, which were validated against catch data. The findings suggest that our HSI model is a reliable tool for predicting mackerel fishing grounds within the South Korean EEZ. This research offers valuable insights into the spatial distribution and environmental preferences of mackerel in these waters, contributing to improved fisheries management strategies.
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