The aim of this paper is to evaluate the apparent abundance of the croaker (Micropogon furnieri) along the central and southern coast of Brazil (from 23º50'S to 35ºS). The data on catch and effort of the fish taken in the same area and at the same time, with different gear, are analysed from January 1959 to December 1962. The different gears used were reduced to the same level of efficiency, and the apparent abundance was estimated according to the fishing area (area I - from 23º50'S to 26ºS, and area II - from 26ºS to 35ºS), by quarters and by year. The results allow us to draw the following conclusions: 1 - There is a tendency of increase of the apparent abundance from the beginning to the end of each year and of decrease in following years, in both areas. The decrease is greater in area II. 2 - The levels of apparent abundance, in both areas, was very different. The level in area II is higher. 3 - Variations in the availability during the year, were observed. Data suggest that they are determined in area I by extrinsic factors, and in area II by intrinsic factors. 4 - Different responses of the stock, in both areas, to fishing intensity was verified, supporting the hypothesis of occurrence of two different croaker stocks. The stock of area I probably has reached a state of equilibrium with the fishery while in area II the stock has not yet reached this stage.
