Fish

Commercial Fishing Welfare: Billions of Fish Dying Daily

Commercial fishing kills approximately 1-2 trillion fish annually; the welfare of these individuals is almost never considered.

Key Facts

Global commercial fisheries catch approximately 1-2.3 trillion fish annually
Most fish die from suffocation, pressure changes, or crushing during harvest
Trawling drags fish across the seafloor causing physical trauma before death
Some fisheries use CO2 asphyxiation; others use percussive stunning before killing
Fish welfare regulations exist in some countries but cover far less than 1% of global catches

Welfare Considerations

The scale of commercial fishing makes it arguably the largest source of animal suffering on Earth. Fish caught in nets suffocate over 20-40 minutes. Trawled fish experience pressure changes, physical trauma, and prolonged dying. The welfare case for faster killing methods is identical to that for terrestrial livestock: if fish can suffer, they deserve the fastest available death. The technology exists; the will to require it does not.

What You Can Do

Support fish welfare labeling that includes information on killing methods
Advocate for humane slaughter requirements in commercial fisheries regulation
Reduce fish consumption to decrease demand for high-volume, low-welfare fishing
Donate to Aquatic Life Institute and Fish Welfare Initiative programs
Support Marine Stewardship Council certification criteria that include welfare provisions