Fisheries and Aquaculture

Around 1830, fisheries took a very important turn with the arrival of a company from Jersey which exported cod. After that, many other companies came in the area to market other species, fisheries then quickly expanded. Even with the major economic challenges that are now a part of the fishermen way of life, fisheries and aquaculture still are most important to the local economy.

Inshore and midshore fisheries are present here with over 40 species of fish and shellfish. A dozen wharfs are located on the islands. 45-foot boats are used for inshore fishery (mackerel, scallop, lobster and herring). For midshore fishery (cod, redfish, snow crab and shrimp), it needs 60 to 90-foot boats.

Aquaculture is a fast-growing industry in New Brunswick. The geography of Lamèque and Miscou Islands makes the area ideal for growing blue mussels and oysters. The meeting of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and plankton-rich waters of the Bay of Chaleur creates an environment which helps these species attain their full growth and have an exquisite flavour. Our mussels can be found in many supermarkets and restaurants all over North America.