Ottawa, Ontario - North Atlantic right whales are one of the most endangered large whale species in the world. With recent population estimates at roughly 380, they face serious threats to their survival and recovery from the risk of fishing gear entanglements and vessel strikes. The Government of Canada continues to implement measures to protect this endangered species in close consultation with industry.
Today, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, and the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, announced the fishery and vessel management measures for the 2026 season.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) continues to implement strong measures to address the threat of fishing gear entanglements, including adaptive fishery closure protocols that apply wherever and whenever North Atlantic right whales are detected.
Additionally, DFO is renewing the voluntary shallow water whalesafe gear pilot for three additional years. These pilots allow participating harvesters to continue operating in shallow water areas closed due to NARW detections when using innovative gear, such as break-away gear designed to reduce the risk of entanglement. These pilots will help inform the development of longer-term measures under Canada's recently launched Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy.
As an added protective measure, this year DFO will let harvesters know about North Atlantic right whale detections that do not trigger fishery management measures. These additional advisories will provide information on best practices if a whale is encountered and support increased vigilance among harvesters who may observe a right whale.
Finally, beginning April 22, Transport Canada will implement its North Atlantic right whale vessel traffic protection measures in the Gulf of St. Lawrence for the tenth consecutive year, aiming to reduce the risk of ship strikes. As in previous years since 2020, a mandatory 10‑knot speed limit, covering over 65,000 km², will apply to all vessels 13 metres and longer throughout much of the Gulf, along with dynamic slowdowns in the main shipping lanes when a North Atlantic right whale is detected. The voluntary slowdown in the Cabot Strait will also return, taking effect between April 22 and June 30 and from September 2 to November 15-maintaining the three-week fall period extension introduced in 2025.
In the Bay of Fundy, Transport Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard will continue to encourage vessels to slow down when North Atlantic right whales are detected near the Grand Manan Basin and shipping lanes.
Canada's North Atlantic right whale protection measures are based on the latest data, science, and technological advancements, as well as extensive engagement with partners and stakeholders. These measures, implemented with support and cooperation from harvesters, industry, Indigenous communities, researchers, environmental groups and others, are making a meaningful difference in protecting North Atlantic right whales.
