# El Niño's Impact on Fisheries How climate change is affecting the fishing industry - **Source:** [Science Latest](https://brifing.si/source/ebc20f22-8d1a-4ae4-ba4c-efcd0853ba19) - **Published:** 2026-07-11 - **Topic:** [Operations](https://brifing.si/c/operations) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/d5a1c3e1-79d2-4681-a4d2-94ea5885eaf2 ## El Niño's Effect on Fisheries El Niño, characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, is deeply impacting the global fishing industry. While countries like Peru have banned anchovy fishing, California is experiencing record tuna catches. Climate change is expected to make El Niño events more frequent and intense. ## Anchovy Fishing Banned in Peru The Peruvian government has imposed an indefinite ban on anchovy fishing during the April-July season to protect declining populations. Anchovies are one of Peru's most important exports and a key source of global fish oil and animal feed. Fish being found at depths over 100 meters is also making traditional fishing methods ineffective. ## Impact on Consumers El Niño's effects on fish populations are reaching consumers. In Peru, prices for some fish species have doubled, leading families to buy more chicken. In North America, thinner wild salmon are driving up retail and restaurant prices. Price fluctuations for fish products are expected to continue in the coming months. ## Tuna Boom in California El Niño has been a boon for Southern California fishers. Species like tuna, swordfish, and marlin, usually found near the equator, are moving closer to coastal waters. This has led to record catches for both recreational and commercial fishers. However, this increase doesn't offset the economic losses in South America. ## Harm to Marine Ecosystems El Niño isn't just threatening fishing economies but also marine ecosystems. High ocean temperatures damage coral reefs and kelp forests, reducing underwater oxygen levels and jeopardizing healthy ecosystems. Shifting fish migrations can also lead to geopolitical conflicts over economic zones. ## Concerns for the Future Experts warn that climate change will make El Niño events more frequent and severe. This could increase instability in the fishing industry and further strain supply chains. Fishers may need to diversify seasonally, and consumers should prepare for price fluctuations. Sustainable fishing practices are becoming increasingly critical. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.wired.com/story/el-nino-wreaking-havoc-on-pacific-fisheries/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._