Canada Releases National Strategy to Reduce Whale Entanglements in Fishing Gear | Oceana

Victory | February 5, 2026

Canada Releases National Strategy to Reduce Whale Entanglements in Fishing Gear

Fisheries and Oceans Canada released Canada’s “Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy” — the first national framework to advance alternative fishing gear, including on-demand (ropeless) gear. This new strategy will help prevent whale entanglements, one of the greatest threats to critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. The strategy outlines a phased approach to assess entanglement risk, establish pilot areas for on-demand gear, evaluate their effectiveness, and, if successful, designate areas (in locations and during times) where on-demand gear should be used to protect right whales from heightened risk of entanglement. Oceana Canada, alongside fishers, Indigenous rights holders, and other allies, advocated to advance practical solutions that reduce entanglement risk while supporting thriving fishing communities. Oceana will continue to campaign to ensure the framework is fully and swiftly implemented.