About Us
Deep Sea Trawlers Association of BC
The BC Trawl Groundfish fishery is a highly complex and diverse multispecies fishery, harvesting over 60 different species of groundfish along the coast of British Columbia, Canada. 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 Trawlers 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. We serve as a united voice which represents the BC trawl industry to various government departments and international boards.
Our Members
The BC Trawl Groundfish fishery has a limited number of commercial licences; we have 142 commercial licenses referred to as a “T” and “FT” license. Members of the Deep Sea Trawlers Association of BC are currently limited to owners of with a valid Class “T” or “FT” trawl licence, who may or may not actively fish their license. This ensures that only direct stakeholders in the groundfish trawl fishery are represented by the association.
Our association maintains a strict policy that no more than one member per vessel is allowed, fostering fair and equal representation for each License Holder owner. The DSTA currently has 32 members and 6 associate members. Our membership structure helps ensure that the DSTA remains focused on supporting the stakeholders of the BC Groundfish Trawl fleet while maintaining a fair and organized representation within the industry.
Advocating for Trawl Vessel Owners
The DSTA aims to promote and safeguard the welfare and interests of BC trawl vessel owners. Our association works for fair and sustainable fishing policies that support the economic stability of the BC Trawl Groundfish fleet. We advocate for the rights and concerns of license holders in industry discussions and regulatory processes.
Partnerships and Collaboration
The DTSA provides official representation of and for trawl license holders to deal with other organizations in the fishing industry whether within or beyond the Province of British Columbia. We build partnerships with seafood processors, other fishing associations, scientific institutions, and environmental organizations to promote sustainable fishing practices. Our work facilitates relationships to strengthen the marketability and sustainability of BC Trawl Groundfish.
A United Voice
The DSTA provides official representation of and for trawl license holders in dealings with various government departments and national boards or agencies. We address policy development, fisheries management decisions, and sustainability initiatives. Our association advocates for regulations that support both the economic viability of the fishery and the long-term health of groundfish stocks, while engaging in public and government relations on behalf of industry stakeholders.
Advocacy and Policy Development
The DSTA is committed to public engagement, marketing, and education to enhance awareness and understanding of the BC Trawl Groundfish fishery. By actively promoting the industry’s sustainability, economic contributions, and responsible fishing practices, we aim to build consumer trust, strengthen industry relationships, and drive long-term economic viability.
The BC Trawl Groundfish industry has been a leader in fisheries accountability, setting the standard for responsible and transparent seafood harvesting in BC. In 1995, members of our association pioneered the implementation of 100% at-sea and 100% dockside monitoring programs in ensuring that every aspect of the fishery is meticulously tracked and reported.
By championing responsible fisheries management, promoting collaboration with other fishing organizations, and driving industry innovation, the DSTA continues to strengthen the voice of BC’s groundfish trawl fleet
Collaboration
The DSTA works in collaboration with the Canadian Groundfish Research and Conservation Society (CGRCS). We work together to fund and collect research and participate in activities that promote the conservation and sustainability of Canada’s groundfish stocks while ensuring the economic wellbeing of the groundfish trawl industry. The CGRCS has a different mandate than we do which is focussed on directly supporting research activities and science processes, electronic monitoring, data collection, policy development and ultimately aims to do what its name suggests – research and conserve, while still promoting economic access for all fishers to our Canadian resource.
Together, the DSTA and CGRCS set high standards for responsible fishing practices, safeguard BC’s marine ecosystems, and strengthen the fishing industry’s long-term viability. Our proactive approach ensures that BC groundfish remains a trusted, sustainable seafood choice.
