January 23, 2017 — A survey of 28 countries, including the 20 countries that catch the most fish globally, found New Zealand, the United States, Iceland, Norway and Russia had the five best-managed fisheries.
The study was completed by Michael Melnychuck, a research scientist at the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences at the University of Washington, and three co-authors, and was published by Washington’s National Academy of Sciences.
The study found the three most important characteristics of a thriving fishery were the scientific assessment of the stock, limiting fishing pressure, and enforcing regulations.
Seafood New Zealand Chief Executive Tim Pankhurst said the study confirms his belief that New Zealand’s fisheries are properly managed.