In recent decades, U.S. fisheries have made remarkable progress thanks to science-based policies led by NOAA and regional fishery councils. A more recent success story is the rebound of Pacific Bluefin Tuna. Long considered overfished, this prized species is now showing strong signs of recovery thanks to coordinated international management, scientific monitoring, and hard-fought conservation measures. According to NOAA, spawning stock biomass has reached levels not seen in decades, an encouraging sign that sustainable harvest is possible even for highly migratory, high-demand species. 

The Bluefin Tuna recovery reminds us what’s possible when scientists, policymakers, conservationists, and fishermen work together under strategic oversight. These stocks are rebounding decades ahead of expectations, underscoring the resilience of nature and the critical role that science, monitoring, and adaptive management play in ensuring future generations can continue to harvest from the sea.

But this progress is not guaranteed. Current budget cuts and political pressure are undermining NOAA’s capacity to collect data, enforce regulations, and support sustainable practices. Weakening these systems could reverse hard-won gains and leave fisheries more vulnerable to collapse.

How Can You Make a Difference for the Ocean?

The ocean needs more than awareness—it needs action. One of the most powerful ways to protect marine ecosystems is by choosing your seafood wisely. When you join the Real Good Fish community, you’re doing just that.We make it easy to access regionally caught, sustainable seafood—harvested by small-scale fishermen who care deeply about the ocean’s future. Every delivery includes the name of the fisherman, where your seafood was caught, and how—so you know exactly what you’re eating and who you’re supporting.

Eating the right seafood supports the right future.
Avoiding seafood altogether might seem like the safest option, but it can actually harm the ecosystems and communities that depend on healthy oceans. By choosing responsibly harvested, local fish, you help keep conscientious fishermen on the water. These are the stewards who follow science-based catch limits, avoid wasteful practices, and play a critical role in rebuilding fish stocks through better management.

Every choice you make has a ripple effect—on the ocean, on coastal communities, and on future generations.