Advancing science and management of billfish in a changing ecosystem

Abstract The 7th International Billfish Symposium, convened in October 2024 at Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute in San Diego, brought together 106 participants from nine countries to advance science and management of billfish in a rapidly changing ecosystem. Over three days, the program featured 47 oral presentations, 25 posters, and expert panels addressing critical themes: movement and tagging technologies, biological and genetic research for stock assessment, and the role of recreational fisheries in conservation. Discussions highlighted persistent data gaps in age, growth, stock structure, and movement, as well as technological challenges associated with electronic tagging and the high costs limiting sample sizes. Innovative approaches such as genomic tools, joint-species spatio-temporal models, and citizen science initiatives were showcased as pathways to improve assessments and management. Panel sessions emphasized the need for global collaboration, standardized data collection, and integration of socioeconomic considerations to elevate billfish conservation within regional fisheries management organizations. Recommendations included advancing tagging technology, reducing costs through partnerships, prioritizing genetic research, and fostering trust and engagement with recreational fishing communities to enhance data collection. Despite progress, many challenges identified during the first Symposium in 1972 remain unresolved, underscoring the urgency for coordinated strategies and sustainable funding. This themed set of ICES Journal of Marine Science presents 10 scientific contributions from the Symposium and expert panel outcomes, offering actionable insights to bridge science, management, and stakeholder engagement for the conservation of highly migratory billfish species