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Cod, Pacific

(U.S. Bottom Longline, Jig and Trap)

Rating:
Pacific cod is a "Best Choice" when caught in the U.S. Pacific Ocean by bottom longline, trap or hook-and-line.

A portion of this fishery is certified as sustainable to the standard of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) .

Market Names:
Alaska Cod, Gray Cod, True Cod

Consumer Notes:
Market names for Pacific cod include Alaska cod, grey cod, true cod, Japanese cod, madara, tara and codfish.

Summary:
Fishermen catch most Pacific cod with bottom longlines and trawl gear. Bottom longlines do accidentally catch seabirds but this bycatch has been reduced through effective management measures. Bottom longline, trap and hook-and-line caught Pacific cod are a "Best Choice."

Bottom trawling can damage the seafloor, destroying fish habitats. As a result trawl-caught Pacific cod is a "Good Alternative" rather than a "Best Choice" even though the population is considered healthy and abundant.

There is conflicting evidence regarding the role of the Pacific cod fishery in the decline of the endangered Steller sea lion and the northern fur seal. Measures to address this issue have been implemented, lessening the concern.

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