Canada’s fisheries are more than an economic engine—they are a living link between generations, communities, and the ocean itself. From Atlantic lobster and crab fleets to Pacific and Arctic fisheries, harvesters sustain coastal economies while stewarding the waters that sustain them. But sharing these waters with endangered whale populations, including the North Atlantic right whale, demands continuous innovation.

That is the balance at the heart of a new national effort.

On February 3, 2026, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), led by Joanne Thompson, officially launched Canada’s Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy—a five-year roadmap designed to help protect whales while strengthening the long-term sustainability, competitiveness, and leadership of Canada’s fishing industry.

The strategy is not a single solution, but a coordinated framework to guide the introduction of safer and more innovative fishing gear in fisheries across the country where it is needed. At its core is a simple premise: prosperous fisheries and healthy whale populations must advance together.

A Practical Path to Coexistence

Whale entanglement in fishing gear remains one of the most significant human-related threats to large whales. The Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy responds with a toolbox of technologies and practices that reduce risk—both before entanglements occur and, when they do, in ways that lessen harm.

Among the most promising tools is on-demand, or “ropeless,” fishing gear, which removes vertical lines from the water column except when gear is being retrieved. Other whalesafe technologies aim to minimize rope strength, reduce slack, or make gear more detectable, all contributing to safer ocean space.

Rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all approach, Canada is taking a measured, fishery-by-fishery pathway that reflects the realities of diverse fleets, species, and operating environments.

As Minister Thompson underscored:

“Harvesters have been leading the way on safer gear and innovative fishing practices for years. This Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy builds on that work, bringing more tools into the fisheries where they can help reduce entanglements, protect whales, and keep crews safe on the water. We’ll keep working closely with industry, Indigenous partners, and experts to expand what’s proven, practical, and ready to use.”

Built With Industry, Not For Industry

A defining feature of the strategy is how it was developed.

Extensive engagement with harvesters, gear manufacturers, Indigenous groups, non-governmental organizations, and whale experts shaped every stage of the plan. Their combined experience ensures that whalesafe gear solutions are not just technically feasible, but operationally realistic—safe to use, reliable in harsh marine conditions, and workable in day-to-day fishing operations.

Harvesters are recognized as essential partners in this transition. Their on-the-water knowledge, accumulated over decades, is critical to testing, refining, and adapting whalesafe gear before it is introduced more widely.

Canada will continue to collaborate closely with industry to pilot and evaluate new technologies, ensuring successful adoption is driven by what works in real fishing conditions—not just in theory.

Protecting Whales, Strengthening Fisheries

Whalesafe gear is a cornerstone of Canada’s broader efforts to protect and recover endangered whale populations. At the same time, it supports the long-term sustainability of fisheries by reinforcing Canada’s reputation as a global leader in responsible, science-informed ocean stewardship.

The Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy reinforces a future where:

  • Whale entanglements are reduced through prevention-focused technology
  • Harvesters have access to practical, proven gear solutions
  • Fisheries remain economically strong and internationally competitive
  • Conservation and livelihoods advance together

It is a vision grounded in partnership—and in the understanding that the health of Canada’s oceans and the success of its fisheries are inseparable.

As the strategy rolls out over the next five years, Canada’s message is clear: innovation, collaboration, and respect for those who work on the water will drive the next era of sustainable fishing.