Which seafood species are important to New Brunswick’s fishing industry?

The fishing and fish-processing industry remains a vital component of New Brunswick’s economy, centered in regions such as the Bay of Fundy, the Northumberland Strait, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence.1

The province's commercial catch is diverse, consisting primarily of the following species:

• Crustaceans and Shellfish: Lobster, crab, and scallops.1
• Fin fish: Herring, cod, and mackerel, alongside a variety of other North Atlantic species.1

In addition to traditional wild-capture fisheries, New Brunswick has developed a significant aquaculture sector. These hatcheries and open-ocean pens supplement the industry by producing:

• Finfish: Salmon and trout.1
• Shellfish: Mussels and oysters.1

The industry is highly sensitive to environmental and economic factors, including fluctuating fish stocks, weather conditions, and international market competition, which has led to a strong reliance on government regulation and support.1