1950s - early fisher organizing
The PEIFA was originally formed when Island fish harvesters gathered to discuss the effects of a proposed trap limit. Those meetings showed the need for an organization that could represent fish harvesters to government and help fishing communities communicate across the Island.
1979 - financial independence
In the late 1970s, the Association became financially self-sufficient, strengthening its independence as a fish harvester led organization.
1982 - incorporation
The Association was formally incorporated in 1982. The incorporation restructuring included the local association representation model, with six local fishing associations and two directors from each local association.
2004 - recognized provincial role
The PEIFA is recognized as the representative for core fishers in Prince Edward Island under provincial fisheries legislation.