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Introduction to stock assessment

Unit 1.1: Canada's approach to fisheries science

Bluefin Tuna for sale in market

Bluefin Tuna. Photo Credit: DFO.

The Government of Canada's department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) manages fisheries in Canada according to the Fisheries Act using practices that are:

  • credible
  • science-based
  • affordable
  • effective

DFO manages over 200 fisheries across 3 coasts:

  • Pacific
  • Arctic
  • Atlantic

DFO is responsible for determining:

  • how much is fished (for example, total allowable catch)
  • who gets to fish (for example, permits and licensing)
  • where fishing can occur (for example, outside of marine protected areas and other prohibited areas, temporary closures due to the presence of migratory marine mammals)
  • when fishing occurs (for example, times and seasons)
  • how fishing can occur (for example, gear type, size, and quantity, monitoring and reporting requirements)
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