February 7, 2024 — The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released a report last month confirming what any fisherman could tell you: The ocean is warmer than ever. About the only thing hotter, at least in fishing circles, is the debate on what to do about it. While many regional fishery management councils are taking steps to adapt and protect both fish stocks and our livelihoods, it’s time for more action. It’s time we lay the groundwork for a science-based, sustainable offshore aquaculture industry in our country to complement wild-capture fishing.
Aquaculture will never replace fishing. If it could, we wouldn’t support it. We’ve been involved in various aspects of the fishing industry for years, and we know fishing is a way of life. We also think a sustainable aquaculture industry that works with, not against, U.S. fishermen could help keep it that way for generations to come.
Right now, warming waters are shrinking or shifting fish stocks in every region of the country. Black sea bass are moving from the Mid-Atlantic to New England while lobster are scuttling north into Canadian waters. Humboldt squid have moved from California all the way to Alaska. And last summer, masses of dead fish washed up on Texas beaches as Gulf waters boiled.