Economic Analysis of the Catch-and-Retain Bluefin Tuna Charter Fishery in the Atlantic Canadian Gulf Region: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Growing interest among Bluefin Tuna (BFT) commercial fishers in increasing economic opportunities led to the introduction of a catch-and-retain charter fishery in Atlantic Canada’s Gulf Region in 2020. Unlike its catch-and-release counterpart, catch-and-retain allows fishers to capture their commercial quota allocation with charter clients on board. To assess the economic viability of this newly implemented fishery, the study administered an online survey to active BFT charter boat operators following the 2022 season. The survey asked charter boat operators about their BFT charter fishing operations, perspectives on the catch-and-retain fishery, and socio-economic backgrounds. The first study objective was to assess and describe important economic characteristics of the sample of BFT charter fishers, with a focus on catch-and-retain. The second objective was to evaluate and compare differences in trip expenses of catch-and-retain fishing relative to 1. commercial and catch-and-release BFT fishing; and 2. between the Gulf Nova Scotia and PEI fleet regions.