Commercial Fisheries

Commercial fisheries play a vital role in Canada's economy, particularly for coastal regions. Commercial fishery operations large and small employ approximately 100 000 people nationwide, and fish and seafood exports reached $3.9 billion in 2007.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada works to protect and conserve resources in support of a stable and sustainable fishing industry. The Department manages and regulates commercial fisheries in accordance with the roles and responsibilities defined in the Fisheries Act (Resource Management).

Resources

Fisheries Service Changes in 2013

Atlantic Sharing Arrangements (April 2010)

Reports and Publications - Fisheries
Find publications related to commercial fisheries.

Fisheries Management Policies
Policies affecting fishing operations in Canada.

Fisheries Programs and Initiatives
Programs and initiatives related to fishing operations in Canada.

Statistics - Commercial Fisheries
Find national and regional statistics on Canada's commercial fisheries (e.g. landings, licences, quota reports, import/export data).

Integrated Fisheries Management Plans
Consult these plans to learn how the fishery of a particular species is managed in a given region.

Fishery Openings and Closures
Fishing opening and closure notices.

Shellfish Harvest Closures
Shellfish harvesting areas closed for health and safety reasons.