There are three distinct cod stocks primarily fished in the Newfoundland and Labrador Recreational Groundfish Fishery. These stocks are identified geographically by the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Divisions in which they are found:
- Northern cod (NAFO Divisions 2J3KL): Found from the eastern side of the Avalon Peninsula, along the northeast coast of Newfoundland, and up to the east coast of Labrador.
- 3Ps cod (NAFO Division 3Ps): Located from the southwestern side of the Avalon Peninsula, extending along much of the island's south coast.
- Northern Gulf of St. Lawrence cod (NAFO Division 3Pn4RS): Found from the tip of the Northern Peninsula, down the west coast of Newfoundland, and along Quebec's lower north shore.
Assessing stock health
DFO Science assesses the health of each stock individually, using the Precautionary Approach Framework. Stocks are categorized as being in the Healthy, Cautious, or Critical zone.
Stock status
Currently, Northern Gulf of St. Lawrence cod and 3Ps cod are in the Critical Zone. These stocks have high natural mortality and a low number of young fish, which is limiting population growth.
In contrast, Northern cod stock status has improved, and it is no longer in the Critical Zone. Recent scientific data and assessments confirm Northern cod has remained stable since 2017 and is at a higher level than previously understood.
