After nearly three decades, the commercial redfish fishery is set to reopen in Quebec and Atlantic Canada, according to Fisheries Minister Diane Lebouthillier’s recent announcement. The reopening follows a 1995 moratorium due to low redfish stocks in a section of the Gulf of St. Lawrence known as Unit 1, stretching across Newfoundland’s western coast to Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula and Cape Breton’s northern tip.

Allocation and Opportunities

Nova Scotia will receive the largest share of the quota, set at a minimum of 25,000 tonnes for the initial two years. Additionally, there will be a 10% allocation for both shrimp harvesters and Indigenous harvesters seeking to enter the redfish fishing industry.

Science and Phased Reopening

Lebouthillier emphasized that the decision aligns with scientific recommendations and the industry’s current processing capacity. The phased reopening will provide data collection opportunities while allowing the industry to explore new markets and expand processing capabilities. A long-term plan will be developed during the second phase, considering the fishery’s participation, management, and market dynamics after nearly three decades of closure.

Impact on Shrimp Harvesters

The reopening is expected to benefit struggling shrimp harvesters, with quotas for northern shrimp reduced to 3,060 tonnes in 2024, aimed at allowing shrimp stocks to recover. Fisheries Department biologist Caroline Senay noted that redfish are part of the northern shrimp diet, but other factors like temperature also affect shrimp populations.

Extension of Fisheries Funds

Minister Lebouthillier also announced plans to extend Quebec and Atlantic fisheries funds until 2026, with a focus on projects related to revitalizing the redfish fishery. Discussions are underway with provincial counterparts, with federal contributions totaling approximately CAD 8 million (USD 5.94 million) for Quebec and CAD 22 million (USD 16.34 million) for the Atlantic, supplemented by provincial contributions.