The future of the south coast commercial cod fishery remains in question following recent assessments which show the stock still deep in the critical zone.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans says preliminary data shows the 3Ps stock at its lowest level in history – thanks to record high ocean temperatures that are affecting the stock’s productivity.
The Total Allowable Catch was set at just 1,026 tonnes for the 2025-26 fishing season.
A rebuilding plan is now in place to promote stock growth.
DFO research scientist Divya Varkey says its working group is set to meet to discuss how to proceed, but in the meantime, she’s recommending that removals be severely limited.
“What happens will depend on the consultations that we have with the stakeholders, and in Canada and France. And so that specific decision will take some time,” said Varkey
