Stronger stock assessment science is a necessary but not sufficient requirement for rebuilding Namibian hake stocks and for sustainable fisheries. The other requirements are for reduced total allowable catches and, more importantly, reduced mortality that together will permit stock recovery and restore biodiversity, where possible, to a level of greater resilience. Given that landings have not improved despite increased efficiency, it seems clear that the rebuilding of the Namibian hake stocks will not be achieved through “business as usual”.