Fresh cod on a wharf.
Adobe Stock
The Honourable Minister of Fisheries, Joanne Thompson, has announced a sustainable increase in Northern cod total allowable catch (TAC) aimed at benefiting the coastal communities of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
Additionally, the Canadian government has introduced a new voluntary pilot program for tour boat operations certified by Transport Canada, allowing them to retain fish seven days a week, eliminating the catch-and-release aspect. As a result, passengers will be able to keep two groundfish per day.
Finally, public consultations will be launched to inform future management decisions for the recreational cod fishery. This will enable the collection of opinions on this fishery and the study of the health of the three cod populations in the province.
The status of the Northern cod stock has improved, while the stocks on the south and west coasts remain in the Critical Zone. Given the needs of the coastal communities, no changes will be made to the management measures.
According to government data, Northern cod has remained stable since 2017 and is at a higher level than previously understood based on the 2024 assessment. For this reason, the total allowable catch (TAC) will be increased from 18,000 tonnes (t) to 38,000 t.
On the other hand, the capelin population is stable, but it is anticipated that stocks will decrease to recent average levels. Therefore, the TAC for capelin will remain at 14,533 t. Capelin is a key food source for Northern cod and other species.
"There are opportunities now to responsibly grow the industry and reflect on how we manage the food fishery. We often say that the world needs more Canada, but Canada also needs more Newfoundland and Labrador – and a stronger cod fishery will help make that happen," Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson said.