  Fish harvesting often targets larger individuals, which can be sex-specific
due to size dimorphism or differences in behaviors like migration and spawning.
Sex-selective harvesting can have dire consequences in the long run,
potentially pushing fish populations towards collapse much earlier due to
skewed sex ratios and reduced reproduction. To investigate this pressing issue,
we used a single-species sex-structured mathematical model with a weak Allee
effect on the fish population. Additionally, we incorporate a realistic
harvesting mechanism resembling the Michaelis-Menten function. Our analysis
illuminates the intricate interplay between life history traits, harvesting
intensity, and population stability. The results demonstrate that fish life
history traits, such as a higher reproductive rate, early maturation of
juveniles, and increased longevity, confer advantages under intensive
harvesting. To anticipate potential population collapse, we employ a novel
early warning tool (EWT) based on the concept of basin stability to pinpoint
tipping points before they occur. Harvesting yield at our proposed early
indicator can act as a potential pathway to achieve optimal yield while keeping
the population safely away from the brink of collapse, rather than relying
solely on the established maximum sustainable yield (MSY), where the population
dangerously approaches the point of no return. Furthermore, we show that
density-dependent female stocking upon receiving an EWT signal significantly
shifts the tipping point, allowing safe harvesting even at MSY levels, thus can
act as a potential intervention strategy.
