New Strategy Introduced to Protect Whales from Fishing Gear

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) has launched a new initiative aimed at reducing whale entanglements in fishing gear. Announced on October 24, 2024, the Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy is a five-year plan focusing primarily on the Atlantic provinces to protect vulnerable whale species, notably the endangered North Atlantic right whale.

At the heart of this strategy is the promotion of “whalesafe gear,” equipment specifically designed to minimize the risk of entanglements. Brett Gilchrist, the DFO’s director of national programs, emphasized the need to protect endangered species, stating, “The focus is clearly on endangered, highly endangered whale species to start. That gives you a sense of where we’re focusing on on the East Coast; the North Atlantic right whale is frankly the priority right now.”

The DFO aims to collaborate with fish harvesters to enhance whale protection without imposing fishing closures. The strategy involves the identification of high-risk areas where whale entanglements are likely to occur, allowing for targeted interventions.

The new gear falls into two primary categories: on-demand gear and low breaking-strength gear. The on-demand system allows fishermen to retrieve traps from the seafloor via a buoy and rope that can be released with a signal from a mobile application. This innovative approach aims to reduce the likelihood of whales becoming entangled in fishing lines, a problem that can be fatal for these marine mammals.

According to Hanna Vatcher, a right whale advocate with Oceana Canada, while the technology is not brand new, it has yet to see widespread adoption. “Fishers are not out there intentionally harming whales. It’s just an unfortunate byproduct of the industry that involves humans going into the ocean,” she remarked. Vatcher noted that many fishers have actively participated in testing these new methods.

The DFO has recognized that not all fisheries are equipped to implement whalesafe gear immediately. Therefore, the strategy emphasizes expanding testing opportunities and adapting gear options to suit the diverse needs of fish harvesters.

Martin Maillet, executive director of the Maritime Fishermen’s Union, shared insights on the collaboration between fisheries and whale protection initiatives. He stated, “As we learn how to live together with these whales in our ecosystem, we’re fine-tuning these approaches. So that’s, I think, for the next five years, that’s what we’re doing — fine-tuning.”

In addition to testing gear, the strategy outlines plans to establish standards for manufacturers and harvesters, ensuring that all equipment meets safety and efficiency requirements.

The DFO’s primary concern is the current status of the North Atlantic right whale population. Vatcher highlighted a positive trend, noting that 20 calves have been born this season, the highest number in 15 years. She stated, “This is really good news. It’s been a very productive calving season so far. … So very hopeful news. Really shows the resilience of the species. But, you know, we also still have to be cautious.”

Historically, the population has faced significant challenges. In October 2024, approximately 380 North Atlantic right whales were recorded, including around 70 reproductive females. The target for recovery is to reach an annual birth rate of 50 calves to ensure long-term survival.

In the interim, on-demand whalesafe gear is already available at no cost through the CanFISH gear lending program in Halifax, where over 200 sets have been utilized to catch one million pounds of snow crab.

The DFO’s strategy reflects a growing commitment to balancing the needs of fish harvesters with the urgent requirement to protect endangered whale populations. As the initiative unfolds over the next five years, stakeholders hope to refine their methods and enhance the safety of both marine life and the fishing industry.