In 2025, the department estimated there were 547,300 spawning striped bass in the southern gulf, up from 340,300 from 2024. David Roth, program director at the Atlantic Salmon Federation, said Atlantic salmon stocks continue to plummet in the region, with one of the major factors being the increasing number of striped bass. “The main reason for the low survival rates is predation by striped bass.”David Roth, program director at the Atlantic Salmon Federation, said consumption of salmon by striped bass is a reason salmon stocks have declined. (CBC)By listing striped bass in a cautious zone, DFO is suggesting, according to its presentation, that any decisions about the fishery “should promote growth.”But Roth said striped bass fishery limits are too conservative and should increase to help Atlantic salmon. “But now Atlantic salmon in the Miramichi and southern gulf are kind of where striped bass used to be.”

Source: CBC News January 08, 2026 19:30 UTC