Background: Fish and seafood play an important role in improving food security in Inuit Nunangat. Therefore, this scoping review aims to explore (1) what topics and/or themes have been widely explored in the literature related to barriers and pathways linking fish and seafood to food security; (2) where research, policy, and action gaps exist; and (3) how fisheries currently contribute to food security. Methods: A systematic search of peer-reviewed articles was conducted using six databases. Articles were screened by two independent reviewers. Eligible studies included primary research conducted in Inuit Nunangat that explored the roles of fish and seafood in food security. Results: Thirty-one articles were included for review. Overall, we found that fisheries can influence food security through direct pathways (e.g., consuming fish for nutrition), and through indirect pathways such as increasing household purchasing power (e.g., through employment). Research indicated that policies relating to wildlife and fisheries management need to be integrated with food and health policies to better address food insecurity in Inuit Nunangat. Conclusion: Future research is needed to establish a more robust understanding of the explicit mechanisms that fish and seafood harvest and/or the participation in commercial fisheries alleviates household food insecurity.

For generations, Inuit in Nunavut have relied on small-scale fisheries as a foundation for food security, cultural identity, and economic resilience. However, systemic barriers, such as the high cost of living, limited infrastructure, climate change, and colonial legacies, continue to challenge the sustainability of Inuit food systems. In this context, small-scale fisheries are increasingly recognized in academic and policy circles as a promising pathway toward Inuit food sovereignty, with the potential to strengthen local economies, promote cultural continuity, and improve access to nutritious, culturally significant foods like Arctic char. This qualitative case study prioritizes Inuit voices in Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut, to explore the complex role of small-scale fisheries in advancing food security, sovereignty, and community well-being. Semi-structured interviews ( n = 15) were conducted with Elders, experienced commercial fish harvesters, and local decision-makers. Findings emphasize the cultural significance of fishing practices, the emotional and spiritual connection to harvesting, and the importance of intergenerational knowledge transmission. Participants also identified key barriers, including the lack of infrastructure, harvester support, and local market access, that limit the full potential of small-scale fisheries. This study calls for strategic, rights-based policy interventions that support Inuit-led priorities. Investments in marine infrastructure, harvester development programs, and community-based market models can help ensure the sustainability of small-scale fisheries in Qikiqtarjuaq and similar Arctic communities.