Sustainability on the Open Waters: Why Overfishing Sucks:

Demand for Fish is High

Science tells us all kinds of fish are beneficial to our health. For example fish are high in protein and omega-3's and low in fat. It comes to no surprise to us that the demand for fish is high. So we thought we'd do a little snooping around, and compile information of the good and the bad.

Here's some problems caused by unsustainable fishing:

- Overfishing - This happens when fish are caught faster than they can reproduce.  If the fish cannot replenish their own population, they die out.

- Bycatch - This is any unwanted catch that comes along with the intended catch (i.e. fish that is too small, too big, or unwanted animals such as turtles, dolphins, and mermaids)

- Competition for food - Say Mr. Seal eats only one kind of fish in order to get the necessary nutrients.  If this fish is depleted, Mr. Seal won't eat normal.

- Habitat destruction - Many types of fishing involves scraping (or dredging) along the intricate ocean floor.  Dredges are big ole' machines that scrape scrape scrape to dig up oysters.  Bottom-trawling (see Trawling link below) is the process of dragging a net along the ocean floor.  Obviously, this cannot be good. The other habitat living there is there for a reason.

WHAT are the better fishing methods?

- Hand Methods - Old-fashioned pole-fishin' and hand nets are a great way to fish (if you're near the ocean).

- Trolling - This is where a boat drives very slowly dragging a series of hooks behind them.  This is low-impact fishing because it never touches the seafloor or disturbs habitats.

- Fishtraps - This is an awesome method because it's all about trapping LIVE fish that can be sorted out for any bycatch.  The LIVE bycatch can then be placed back into the ocean and survive.  This method is often seen for crabbing--which is one of the most sustainable fishing methods out there!

To learn more about fishing methodologies and certification, visit FishWise

How do we know what fish to buy?

EASY!  Many ocean sustainability websites offer updated guides to the low-impact fish feast.  See links below!

These are examples of good choices:
- Abalone
- Catfish
- Crabs
- Mackerel (Atlantic)
- Pollock
- Salmon (wild/Alaska)
- Tuna (albacore)

Worst Choices:
- Caviar
- Chilean Seabass
- Grouper
- Shark
- Swordfish

Must-See's in Sustainable Seafood
Seafood Selector -  The Environmental Defense Fund has concocted this updated, pocket-friendly guide to smart fish choices.  Completely fool-proof!

Monterey Bay Aquarium has one as well (by region).
Marine Stewardship Council - "A global organisation working with fisheries, seafood companies, scientists, conservation groups and the public to promote the best environmental choice in seafood."