Ethan Blake, a 23-year-old urchin diver from Gander Bay, now owns his fishing enterprise but faces challenges due to declining sea urchin stocks and restrictive fishing licenses. With only 13 out of 52 licenses leading to landings this season, Blake and others are urging Fisheries and Oceans Canada to allow exploratory licenses for untouched areas to improve roe quality. Hodder’s Shellfish, owned by Jerry and Alisha Hodder, advocates for this change to enhance the fishing industry’s sustainability and economic viability, emphasizing the need for better resource management. Despite low landings in recent years, DFO remains hesitant to alter current management measures, although they may consider changes before the 2026 season.
