Sustainable. Verified. Canadian.
BC Trawl Groundfish
Proudly harvesting BC’s groundfish with care, science, and a commitment to long-term ocean health.
Sustainable. Verified. Canadian.
BC Trawl Groundfish
Proudly harvesting BC’s groundfish with care, science, and a commitment to long-term ocean health.
100% Monitored. 100% Responsible.
Sustainability at the core
Our fishery is built on decades of collaboration between fishers, scientists, and government to ensure long-term stewardship. Every catch is monitored, every vessel is tracked. With 100% at-sea monitoring, dockside validation, individual vessel quotas, and closed areas to protect sensitive habitats, the BC groundfish trawl fishery is a global leader in sustainable fishing practices. Discover how BC’s trawl fishery is among the most accountable in the world.
The value of a sustainable fishery
Sustainably harvested high-protein meals per year
Annual full-time jobs
Contribution to the BC economy
About Us
The BC Trawl Groundfish fishery is a highly complex and diverse multispecies fishery, harvesting over 60 different species of groundfish along the coast of BC. Our fishery operates year-round, supplying fresh, high-quality seafood to local and international markets while adhering to strict sustainability and conservation measures. The Deep Sea Trawler Association of BC (DSTA) is a non-profit association established in 1979, our association is dedicated to advocating for and safeguarding the interests of trawl vessel owners, license holders, and quota holders in BC.
The Fishery
BC’s Trawl Groundfish fishery is a world-leading, science-based fishery that sustainably harvests a wide range of groundfish species. Through robust monitoring, strict quotas, and comprehensive management, the fishery ensures long-term stock health and ecosystem protection. With over 20 years of 100% at-sea observer coverage and dockside monitoring, it is among the most transparent and accountable fisheries in the world. The fishery plays a vital role in BC’s coastal economy, supporting local communities and providing millions of high-protein meals each year.
Sustainability
The BC groundfish trawl fishery is recognized globally for its commitment to sustainability. Through science-based management, 100% at-sea monitoring, and award winning trawl footprint, the fishery ensures responsible harvest of over 60 species while minimizing environmental impact. Continuous collaboration with scientists, government, and environmental organizations supports long-term ecosystem health and sustainable seafood for future generations.
Research & Science
Research and science are at the core of the BC Trawl Groundfish fishery. Fisheries and Oceans Canada conducts regular stock assessments using fishery-independent surveys, biological sampling, and catch data to inform sustainable harvest levels. The industry also partners with the Canadian Groundfish Research and Conservation Society to support collaborative surveys that monitor fish populations and ecosystem health. This science-driven approach ensures informed decision-making, adaptive management, and long-term sustainability of the fishery.
What we catch
From Pacific hake to rockfish, sole to arrowtooth flounder, our fishery harvests more than 60 different species of groundfish. Through careful management and monitoring, each species has a specific quota. A few species highlights are:
With over 15 commercially harvested Rockfish species, these fish are known for their firm texture, mild flavor, and striking colors ranging from deep reds and oranges to muted browns and blacks.
Sole are delicate flatfish known for their mild flavour and tender, flaky texture. We sustainably harvest four main sole species. Their versatility in the kitchen and subtle taste make them a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Cod are prized for their flaky white flesh, mild flavour, and exceptional versatility. We harvest three main species of Cod in the BC Trawl Groundfish fishery. They are perfect for everything from fish and chips to refined entrées.
Hake are a medium-sized silver-grey fish found along the coast of British Columbia. Known for its delicate, soft white flesh and mild flavor, Hake is the most abundant fish resource in the region, reproducing in large numbers.
The BC groundfish trawl fishery is built on generations of fishing families who have dedicated their lives to the ocean. Their deep-rooted knowledge, hands-on experience, and strong connection to the coast are the foundation of this sustainable, community-driven fishery. These families are stewards of the resource, committed to passing down a healthy fishery to future generations through responsible practices and a shared respect for the sea.
A shared commitment to sustainable management
We have collaborated with many organizations to ensure the responsible harvest, science-based management, and long-term sustainability of BC’s groundfish resources. By working alongside government, scientists, Indigenous partners, and environmental groups, we help protect marine ecosystems while supporting coastal communities and Canada’s seafood economy.
