Rebuilding Fisheries in Canada: Capelin Biomass Falling Yet Fishing Stays Open

How To Protect The Ocean

Rebuilding fisheries in Canada: Capelin biomass is only at 16% of its pre-collapse level, which spells disaster for northern cod's recovery. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, host Andrew Lewin breaks down the troubling state of Canada’s east coast fisheries. With DFO ignoring science-based recommendations, capelin is being harvested despite dangerously low numbers—and the ripple effects are hurting northern cod and entire coastal ecosystems.

Northern cod cannot recover without capelin, their primary prey, yet management plans still treat these species separately. Andrew explores the science behind this ecological link, why Oceana Canada is calling for an immediate pause on the capelin fishery, and how outdated management approaches are failing both fish and fishers. It’s time for bold leadership, honest science communication, and smarter fisheries policy.

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