Meaning of the Term Baccalieu

“Baccalieu” is derived either from the Spanish bacalao or the Basque baccalos, both terms meaning “codfish.” It is believed that the name was anciently applied to all the Island of Newfoundland and the surrounding islands. Baccalieu pays tribute to the European fishers of many nations whose adventures and contributions to European settlement of North America were not recorded.

The meaning of the word Baccalieu -- “salt codfish” -- points to the role the area has always played and still plays in the provincial fishery. Today the Baccalieu region is responsible for approximately 22% of the value of the provincial fishery. Baccalieu also reflects Baccalieu Island Ecological Reserve, which has the greatest abundance and species diversity of seabirds in eastern North America.