Author Rose George dives into the dark depths of the fishing industry

Journalist and author Rose George has written a new book, "Every Last Fish: A Deep Dive into the World of Fishes and Fishing" (Granta Books, 2025), that sheds light on the challenges facing the global fishing industry. Overfishing, increased production and consumption, illegal fishing, climate change, and diminishing fish body size are some of the issues that George explores in her book.

George's interest in the fishing industry was sparked by her previous experiences writing about the shipping industry. She traveled across continents, observing trawlers, fishers, and aquaculturists to learn more about their struggles. During her research, she encountered numerous atrocities at sea, including cases of slavery and murder.

One of the most surprising findings for George was the growing consumption of farmed fish, which now surpasses the hunting of wild fish. This shift has led to a significant number of fish stocks being overfished and depleted. Additionally, George's research into fish intelligence and welfare has revealed the complexity of these creatures' abilities, challenging the public's perception of them as mere "slimy things in the water."

Despite the dangers and challenges faced by fishers, George emphasizes that the fishing industry is a unique profession with a deep cultural significance. However, the industry is also facing numerous hurdles, including paperwork burdens and a decline in the number of young people entering the profession.