A new assessment by Oceana Canada shows that federal efforts to rebuild depleted marine fish populations remain inconsistent, despite some measurable progress. The organization’s 2025 Fishery Audit, released on November 25, states that 34 per cent of critically depleted fish stocks now have rebuilding plans and that disclosure of climate-related considerations has improved. However, one-third of all stocks continue to have uncertain health status, another third are depleted, and most remain outside the rebuilding provisions of the Fisheries Act.
According to the audit, Canada’s fisheries employ more than 72,000 people and generate $4.6 billion annually, but long-standing weaknesses in management continue to pose economic and ecological risks. Oceana Canada notes that 12 new rebuilding plans introduced in 2025 now cover one-third of critical stocks, yet legal requirements still apply to only 30 of nearly 200 federally managed fish populations. The report warns that delays raise future recovery costs.
The audit cites several 2025 quota decisions that departed from scientific advice, including a doubling of the northern cod quota, which carries a 71 per cent probability of decline within three years, based on Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s assessment. Oceana Canada also points to limited integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems, despite collaborative successes such as the Haida Gwaii Pacific herring rebuilding plan.
Forage fish stocks, including capelin and Atlantic herring, are highlighted as a particular concern, with half lacking key reference points. In 2024, 90 per cent of forage fish landings came from stocks assessed as critical, cautious, or uncertain. The audit also states that 43 per cent of stocks lack climate considerations.
Oceana Canada recommends that Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson expand protections under the Fisheries Act, apply an ecosystem-based approach to forage species, formally include Indigenous Knowledge Systems in law and policy, invest in consistent stock assessments and climate-resilient management, and publish management plans in a timely manner.
Oceana Canada is an independent charitable organization established in 2015. It operates as part of an international advocacy group focused exclusively on ocean conservation. The organization conducts research, carries out public campaigns, and works with academic institutions, civil society, fishers, Indigenous Peoples, and federal authorities on marine-related issues.
