Historically, the Mi’kmaq, the indigenous people of Atlantic Canada, relied on and managed fisheries through a system based on clan groupings and natural cycles. Regulations placed on harvesting practices – including times of harvest, areas of harvesting and who would harvest – were all tied to annual migrations between fishing and hunting grounds. Decision making was not vested in the hands of a hierarchical leadership, but rather made through a consensus of all members of the community within each of seven territorial districts. However, their participation in harvesting and management has been eroded over time through treaty relationships and government policies. Today, recent court decisions upholding Mi’kmaq rights to the Atlantic Canadian fisheries are increasing Mi’kmaq involvement in fishery management. The Marshall decision, in particular, which was met by conflict between Mi’kmaq and non-native communities, offers potential for further development of local co-operation in fishery management. This paper explores the evolving state of Mi’kmaq nation-based and community-based management systems.