In the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, the stock of striped bass has shown an increase over the past year, as per scientists from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans who advise a cautious approach to managing this species. Preliminary data released by the department on Wednesday pertains to striped bass in the region spanning from the Gaspé Peninsula to Cape Breton Island. The department’s estimation for 2025 indicates a rise in spawning striped bass to 547,300, up from 340,300 in 2024. Additionally, the number of eggs has surged from an estimated 22 billion to 40 billion, indicating a resurgence in the stock.
Despite these positive trends, the striped bass stock is still categorized in the cautious zone. Cindy Breau, a research scientist at the department, highlighted the year-to-year variability in the stock. While the increase in striped bass numbers is favorable for the species, it raises concerns for the conservation of Atlantic salmon, particularly in the Miramichi River. David Roth, program director at the Atlantic Salmon Federation, pointed out the significant decline in Atlantic salmon stocks in the region, attributing it in part to the growing population of striped bass and their predation on salmon.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has placed striped bass in the cautious zone, suggesting that fishery decisions should aim to foster growth. Roth expressed the view that current limits on striped bass fishing are overly conservative and should be revised to benefit Atlantic salmon. He emphasized the need for adjustments in reference points and spawner population targets to address the situation effectively.
Striped bass, being a native species unlike small-mouth bass, have a historical presence in thriving fisheries, although commercial fisheries experienced a collapse in the late 20th century. Roth lamented the decline in Atlantic salmon numbers in the Miramichi River, once a major producer of the species. He noted the stark contrast between the successful recovery of striped bass and the dwindling Atlantic salmon populations in the region, underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts.
