Should we be able to see what bycatch is caught in our oceans?

Bycatch: The Unseen Cost of Commercial Fishing

Bycatch—the unintended capture of non-target marine life—remains a significant issue in global fisheries, leading to unnecessary waste and harm to ocean ecosystems. Canada is not alone in struggling to manage this problem effectively.

The Global Scale of Bycatch

Each year, an estimated 10.3 million tonnes of marine life are unintentionally caught in fishing operations worldwide. Some of this catch is kept and sold or safely released, but a large portion is discarded, often dead or dying. This wasteful practice threatens biodiversity and disrupts the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

The Canadian Context

In Canada, bycatch includes a variety of endangered and threatened species such as whales, turtles, sharks, and fish. Oceana Canada estimates that in the swordfish fishery alone, approximately 1,200 endangered loggerhead turtles are caught annually in pelagic longlines. Other marine species, including the North Atlantic right whale, are also at risk due to entanglements in fishing gear.

New Zealand’s Approach: Cameras on Fishing Boats

New Zealand has taken a proactive approach to addressing bycatch by proposing the installation of security cameras on commercial fishing boats. This initiative aims to provide accurate data on the impact of bycatch, particularly on endangered species. However, the fishing industry in New Zealand has pushed back, expressing concerns that footage could be misinterpreted or used as propaganda.

A Solution for Canada?

Should Canada adopt a similar strategy? Equipping commercial fishing vessels with cameras could enhance transparency, ensure compliance with bycatch regulations, and provide critical data for conservation efforts. However, concerns over privacy, data usage, and potential misrepresentation remain key obstacles to implementation.

Finding a Balance

While cameras on fishing boats could improve bycatch monitoring, a broader strategy is needed. Strengthening regulations, investing in selective fishing gear, and enhancing real-time reporting systems are crucial steps in mitigating bycatch while maintaining a sustainable fishing industry.

As Canada continues to navigate the complexities of marine conservation, the question remains: should we follow New Zealand’s lead and bring cameras aboard our commercial fishing vessels to reveal what is truly being caught?