Gear sustainability assessment of the Newfoundland inshore northern cod fishery

Abstract

From an ocean-basin collapse to a limited reopening, the Newfoundland northern cod fishery is challenged by ecological and economic sustainability. Pivotal factors influencing resource sustainability involve the use of gillnets as the main fishing method and the perception of cod as a low value commodity. Considering gillnetting and two other methods used in this fishery, hand-lines and Newfoundland cod pots, we identified and assessed strengths and weaknesses of each as a basis for best practices management decisions. This assessment involved multi-criteria evaluations based on “ideal gear properties” (International Council for the Exploration of the Sea) adapted to incorporate criteria specific to this fishery. An index scoring system involving 20 ecological, economic and social criteria was developed and used to assess the three gears. Catch-related data collected onboard commercial fishing vessels and structured interviews on economic and social criteria assessments with fishers were collected. Literature reviews supplemented these data.Hand-lining scored the best results on each of the three criteria, with significant advantages (minimal ecosystem impacts; economic and social incentives for an adaptive accessible fishery). Newfoundland cod pots had the second most sustainable results (benefits for cod population, interesting work conditions). Though this gear had economic disadvantages, Newfoundland cod pots ensure best catches for a quality-based fishery. Despite being the fishing gear most commonly used, bottom-set gillnets are the least sustainable method. Catch-related advantages (efficiency, size selectivity) are not adapted to a new quality-based fishery. Restriction of gillnet fishing and promotion of complementary hand-lining and pot fishing would support a best practices more sustainable approach.