Pacific Saury: Overfishing and Environmental Change Puts Future of Japanese Autumn Delicacy in Doubt

Intensive fishing of saury has increasingly taken place in international waters prior to fish starting their southward migration along Japan’s coastline. Schools have also tended to follow routes further away from Japan.

Buyers at Toyosu Fish Market have taken issue with the lower quality of early season saury. (© Kawamoto Daigo)

Sardines have gained popularity among consumers for their freshness and quality. (© Kawamoto Daigo)

A fishing vessel unloads saury at the Onagawa Port in November 2012. Onagawa, Nemuro, and Ōfunato are three major fishing ports for the fish. (© Jiji)