People in the fishing industry disappointed that scientists are not linking seal predation to the status of some fish stocks are taking an unusual step today to make their point.
This year’s crab stock assessment showed some improvement, but fishing activity is still only a fraction of what it was 15 or 20 years ago—and the Labrador stock is in poor shape.
The owner of an inshore sealing vessel will land his catch in Fleur de Lys later this morning where they will cut open the bellies and document the contents.
Captain Trevor Jones says the stomachs of seals caught recently were “bursting” with female snow crab. However, scientists at the stock assessment briefing said they have no science to make the link.
A processing company in Fleur de Lys will process the seals for meat, oil, and skins.
@DFO_Science released latest snow crab science this am, with 'modest improvements' in most areas. Meantime, DFO says harp seals aren't having major impact on crab health based on analysis of 20,000 stomachs. They missed this one, from La Scie in 2012. DFO asked to elaborate … pic.twitter.com/aay0zzjoVm
— Ryan Cleary (@Fishermansroad) February 26, 2021
