Canada Releases National Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy - Oceana Canada

Victory | February 3, 2026

Canada Releases National Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy

Fisheries and Oceans Canada have released Canada’s Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy — the first national framework to advance whalesafe fishing gear, including on-demand (ropeless) systems. Critically endangered North Atlantic right whales face high risk of entanglement in fixed fishing gear in busy Canadian waters. The strategy represents Canada’s most significant federal action to address this threat. It outlines a phased plan to assess risk, pilot on-demand gear and designate high-risk areas for its use. This milestone follows years of advocacy by Oceana Canada and partners, including fish harvesters, Indigenous rights holders and scientists. Together, they advanced practical solutions to reduce whale entanglements while supporting fishing communities. With a national framework now in place, the focus now shifts to full and timely delivery. Successful implementation will reduce entanglement risk, support fish harvesters and give the species a fighting chance at recovery.