Bottom-trawling accounts for around 90 per cent of New Zealand’s multi-billion dollar catch. FILM THE TRAWLERS / Supplied / Stuff

Global Fishing Industry Launches Initiative to Combat Misinformation on Trawling

NEW ZEALAND
Monday, September 01, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)

Led by an Australian scientist, the International Coalition of Fisheries Associations (ICFA) has started a project to create a science- and data-based "trawling toolkit," aiming to redefine public perception and foster more sustainable fishing.

WELLINGTON — Concerns about bottom trawling as a fishing method are stronger than ever in 2025, but the fishing industry is fighting back. Seafood New Zealand, through its membership in the International Coalition of Fisheries Associations (ICFA), has announced a global initiative to push back against criticism of this fishing method and demonstrate how modern technology has improved its practices.

The project is being led by Crispian Ashby, General Manager of Research and Investment at the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) in Australia. According to Seafood New Zealand, the ICFA, which brings together organizations from 24 countries and territories, is committed to the sustainable use of marine resources through science and conservation.

Combating Public Perception with Scientific Data

Crispian Ashby acknowledges that the public perception of trawling is often outdated, based on old information promoted by environmental groups. The project's goal is to change this narrative with facts.

"The fact is we have changed our fishing practices significantly since the 70s and 80s," Ashby stated. "There has been a huge amount of research which has led to the adoption of new fishing technology and better practices. Our vessels have changed, our gear types have changed, and the industry is more efficient and smaller overall. All of this is reducing any potential impact that might be occurring, but that story is taking time to be heard and understood."

The "trawling toolkit" will focus on key topics such as the trawl footprint, bycatch, and technologies for bycatch avoidance. The tool will collect global data to determine what is fact and what is fiction, providing ICFA members with accessible, robust information for dialogue with the public and governments.

A Proactive Future Beyond Criticism

Ashby is urging the New Zealand seafood sector to get involved, sharing information on how their operations have evolved. Global collaboration, he says, will allow ICFA members to learn from each other and combine or develop new technologies to address common problems.

The initiative is not just a defense but a proactive vision for the future. Ashby imagines a future where fishing practices are “beyond reproach” thanks to more efficient technology that saves money and fuel, is less time-intensive, and has lower carbon emissions. The ultimate goal is a future where the fishing industry no longer has to be on the defensive but can proactively showcase its commitment to sustainability.

editorial@seafood.media
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