There is increasing concern for the welfare of farmed fish during rearing, transport and at slaughter and, in the last few years, some progress has been made here.
fishcount.org.uk argues that the welfare of commercially-caught wild fish during capture and slaughter also needs to be addressed.
Wild-caught fish are captured and killed in a manner entirely inconsistent with the concepts of humane treatment and slaughter. Suffering is likely to be high, both in its severity and duration. The capture of fish in commercial fishing may last for several hours, or even days. Most fish are likely to die from being crushed in nets, from suffocation in air or from live dissection. They may be rapidly chilled as they suffocate, a process which may both increase and prolong their distress.
The suffering of fish in commercial fishing is therefore a major animal welfare issue. fishcount.org.uk proposes measures and strategies for reducing the suffering in fisheries.