Canada’s Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson has announced management plans for northern cod (2J3KL) and capelin (2J3KLPs) for the 2025-26 seasons, in a move designed to support Newfoundland and Labrador’s coastal communities.
Recent scientific data and assessments confirm northern cod has remained stable since 2017 and is at a higher level than previously understood from the 2024 assessment, allowing for a responsible total allowable catch (TAC) increase from 18,000 tonnes to 38,000 tonnes.
A key food source for northern cod and other species, capelin plays a significant role in sustaining the marine ecosystem. While capelin populations are stable, it is anticipated that stocks will decrease to recent average levels. As such, the TAC for capelin will remain at 14,533 tonnes.
‘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,’ Joanne Thompson said.
‘Fishing is at the heart of Newfoundland and Labrador, and this is reinforced with every conversation I have with commercial harvesters and crew, plant workers, recreational fishers, and Indigenous groups.’
There are three cod stocks in Newfoundland, with differences in their overall stock health. While the stocks on the south and west coasts are at lower levels, the authorities recognise that the northern cod’s stock status has improved. The total landed value of Northern cod in 2024 was approximately C$37.5 million, benefiting harvesters, crew members, plant workers, and Indigenous groups in coastal communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
