The 'Turbot War'

Jul 17, 2025

Brian Tobin, Canada's Minister for Fisheries and Oceans in 1995, vividly recounts the Turbot War, a dramatic clash over fishing rights with Spain. He describes a tense standoff at sea that began with gunfire, as Canadian authorities sought to protect depleted fish stocks. Tobin shares how accusations of illegal fishing sparked outrage and political turmoil, leading to high-stakes negotiations. The importance of sustainable fishing practices and the lasting legacy of this maritime dispute are highlighted, providing a captivating insight into international relations and environmental conservation.

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INSIGHT

Diplomacy Failed to Protect Stocks

Diplomatic talks failed to stop overfishing by foreign vessels near Canada.
Strict enforcement was deemed necessary to protect vulnerable fish stocks like turbot.

ANECDOTE

Chase and Seizure of Estai

Brian Tobin's team chased the Spanish trawler Estai across the ocean to enforce fishing laws.
They fired machine gun warning shots across its bow before boarding and seizing the vessel promptly.

ANECDOTE

Narrow Avoidance of Naval Conflict

Canadian Prime Minister warned Spain's PM that any military escalation would be met with force.
This prevented a potential naval confrontation between NATO allies over the fishing dispute.

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In 1995, an international row broke out between Canada and Spain over fishing quotas. It started with gunfire and ended with a deal.

The dispute began after Canada set up restrictions to protect fish stocks, including the turbot. A 320km (200 mile) controlled zone was placed around the country’s north Atlantic coast. Fishermen also had to stick to quotas.

But, according to Canada, some boats from the European Union were catching far more turbot than had been agreed.

As a warning, the coastguard chased off one Spanish trawler, shooting machine gunfire over the bow and arresting the crew.

But Spanish officials were furious and denied any wrongdoing. The Turbot War had begun.

Brian Tobin was Canada’s Minister for Fisheries and Oceans. He tells Jane Wilkinson about the part he played in the dispute.

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(Picture: Brian Tobin and a turbot. Credit: Jon Levy/AFP via Getty Images)