Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Fishing is the activity of catching fish and other aquatic organisms from rivers, lakes, oceans, or other bodies of water. It can be done using various methods such as nets, lines with hooks, or traps.
Overfishing occurs when more fish are caught than can naturally reproduce within a given population size. This can lead to depletion of fish stocks and disrupt entire ecosystems.
Aquaculture is the practice of cultivating aquatic organisms (such as fish, shellfish, or plants) under controlled conditions. It is an alternative method to wild fishing.
Bycatch: Bycatch refers to non-target species that are unintentionally caught while fishing for another species. It often includes marine animals like dolphins, turtles, or seabirds.