BILLFISH CAMPAIGN

Many of the world’s billfish stocks are in bad shape.  Nevertheless, marlin, sailfish and spearfish are harvested, exported and imported worldwide.  In some areas, billfish caught by small scale artisanal fishers provide sustenance to the local populace, while in other places billfish are a niche seafood product that are marketed to high-end restaurants and grocery stores.

Until recently, no one really knew the extent of the international billfish market.  To determine this, IGFA contracted Gentner Consulting Group to develop a report on the current state of international billfish markets.  What we found may surprise you.  The United States has the dubious distinction of being the world’s largest importer of billfish (swordfish not included).  You can see this shocking statistic and others by downloading the full report or executive summary.

IGFA along with several other organizations will be using this information to mount an aggressive campaign to ban the sale and importation of billfish in the United States.
The US billfish market just doesn’t make sense and it’s time we made the American public aware of it.  IGFA will be using every available angle to get marlin and sailfish out of grocery stores and off of restaurant menus.  It won’t be easy, but we believe it is necessary.

Check out our other conservation initiatives