How Many Fish Are Caught Illegally Each Year?

Approximately 20% of fish are caught illegally each year, or over 11 million metric tons of fish, according to 2014 estimates reported by National Geographic. Illegal means of catching fish include fishing during off season times, using banned gear, and harvesting from restricted bodies of water. A concern for environmental groups is that illegal fishing may potentially deplete the supply of fish in coastal waters. The economic impact of illegal fishing is estimated to be around from $11 billion to $23.5 billion US Dollars (USD) each year, with the practice being most prevalent in areas such as Belize and Guatemala, with low fishing enforcement by the government due to lack of funding or federal regulations.

More about illegal fishing:

• In 2014, drones, or small unmanned aircraft equipped with video devices, were implemented in Belize to combat illegal fishing by flying randomly over the water for surveillance.
• The penalties for illegal fishing often are a fraction of the potential profit--for example, an illegal fishing case in the US was given a $3,500 USD fine for an illegal fish supply worth an estimated $1 million USD.
• Illegal fishing is estimated to put over 260 million jobs at risk worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many fish are caught illegally each year?

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), it's estimated that about 20% of the global seafood catch is obtained illegally, which translates to approximately 26 million tons. This illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing undermines marine ecosystems and sustainable fisheries management.

What are the impacts of illegal fishing on marine ecosystems?

Illegal fishing can lead to overfishing, which depletes fish stocks and disrupts the balance of marine ecosystems. It often targets endangered species, damages seabed habitats with destructive fishing practices, and can introduce invasive species. The loss of biodiversity and critical marine habitats can have long-lasting ecological consequences.

Why is it difficult to combat illegal fishing?

Combatting illegal fishing is challenging due to the vastness of the oceans, limited resources for enforcement, and the complexity of international waters where jurisdiction can be unclear. Additionally, the high profitability and demand for seafood incentivize illegal operations, which often use sophisticated tactics to evade detection.

What measures are being taken to prevent illegal fishing?

Governments and international organizations are implementing measures such as satellite monitoring, port state measures to inspect and control landings, and catch documentation schemes. The FAO's Agreement on Port State Measures is a key tool in combating IUU fishing by preventing illegally caught fish from entering the market.

How does illegal fishing affect local communities?

Illegal fishing can severely impact local communities that rely on fishing for their livelihoods and food security. It can lead to reduced fish stocks, which in turn can cause loss of income for local fishermen and higher prices for consumers. It also undermines the efforts of those following legal and sustainable practices.

Can consumers help in the fight against illegal fishing?

Yes, consumers can play a role by making informed choices about the seafood they purchase. Opting for products with eco-certification labels, like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), or from traceable sources can support sustainable fisheries. Consumers can also advocate for stronger policies and regulations to combat illegal fishing.