Fisheries Council of Canada Highlights Members’ Sustainable Fisheries Practices

OTTAWA, ON (May 16, 2025) — The Fisheries Council of Canada (FCC) members on all three coasts reaffirm their commitment to sustainable fishing practices and highlights the significant progress made by the Canadian fish and seafood industry.

“As global attention turns to marine conservation with the release of David Attenborough’s Ocean documentary, FCC members encourage a more balanced perspective focused on the sound, science-based ocean stewardship that exists within today’s fishing industry,” said Jason McLinton, President, Fisheries Council of Canada.

“The Canadian fishing industry has evolved tremendously over the past few decades,”McLinton noted. “Our members have been at the forefront of this evolution, developing and implementing innovative technologies that minimize environmental impact while
economically supporting the coastal communities that depend on these resources.”

FCC Members Leading the Way

FCC member companies consistently rank in the top five in the world in rates of third-party sustainability certifications from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). This positions Canadian fisheries among the world’s most sustainably managed – an achievement that reflects decades of investment in science-based management and conservation
practices.

“Healthy oceans are not just an environmental necessity but the foundation of our members’ livelihoods and Canada’s fishing heritage,” McLinton added.

FCC members across Canada’s Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic waters operate with a long-term sustainability vision, recognizing that their businesses depend on healthy marine ecosystems. This commitment extends beyond regulatory compliance, with many
companies voluntarily exceeding requirements through industry-led conservation initiatives.

The robust regulatory framework under which FCC members operate requires a close working relationship and deep collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to work. It also needs FCC members to adhere to some of the most
stringent protocols regarding fishing gear, locations, and practices. This partnership ensures transparency and accountability through comprehensive monitoring systems including at-sea observers and electronic reporting.

“Our members are invested in the future of Canada’s oceans and fisheries,” McLinton added. “We recognize our responsibility as stewards of these resources and remain committed to continuous improvement in how we harvest seafood sustainably for
generations to come.”

For media inquiries, please contact:
David Martinek
Manager, Public Affairs @ FCC
dmartinek@fisheriescouncil.ca

About FCC
The Fisheries Council of Canada (FCC) is the voice of Canada’s wild capture fish and seafood industry, promoting a healthy resource and prosperous industry playing a vital role in the Canadian economy. Our members include small, medium and larger-sized companies along with Indigenous enterprises that harvest and process fish from Canada’s three oceans. Learn more at fisheriescouncil.ca.