1. Facts and Figures about Fisheries in Nova Scotia Source: D.F.O.
Fisheries Oceans 11
Facts and Figures about Fisheries in Nova Scotia
Source: D.F.O.

2. Not all bad news…
The Nova Scotia fishing industry (harvesting and processing) is a major source of direct and indirect employment and income, and is the province’s leading source of export earnings.
In 2006 the value of Nova Scotia’s commercial Landings was $

3. What is being Caught? The commercial fishery targets over 30 species.
Shellfish is the main species group, with lobster, scallop, snow crab and shrimp the main species. In 2002, shellfish accounted for 84% of landed value.
Groundfish continues to play a significant role (11% of landed value), though much diminished from the 1970s and 1980s, when this species group accounted for over 50% of landed value.
Cod, haddock, flatfishes and hake are the leading species. Within the pelagic group (5% of landed value), herring, swordfish and tuna are the main species.

5. Major Fishing Zones
Gulf of St. Lawrence
Georges Bank
Scotian Shelf

6. Gulf of St. Lawrerce Very complex management Involves five provinces
Many seasonal changes for species

7. Georges Bank Excellent biological production
due to warm temperatures, tidal mixing and food supply.
Managed by both Canada and USA

8. Scotian Shelf Main fishing grounds in NS
Most stocks remain very depleted and fragile due to past overfishing.
Seal populations are increasing (therefore increasing predation).

10. Methods of Fishing Two types:
Fixed gear – stationary and left to passively fish for a period of time by attracting or trapping fish
Mobile gear – towed behind a boat to actively capture fish

11. More specific types… Gillnets Traps
Trawling (side, stern, otter, mid-water)
Dragging
Tonging
Longline
Jigging