Moncton (NB), Quebec (QC), St. John’s (NL) and Halifax (NS) - May 13, 2026 – The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) announced today, the closure for conservation reasons, of the directed commercial fishery for Greenland halibut in Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Division 4RST for the 2026-2027 season (May 15, 2026, to May 14, 2027).
A total allowable catch (TAC) of 25 tons is established for 2026-2027 to cover landings from recreational fishing, fishing for food, social, and ceremonial (FSC), as well as bycatch in other commercial fisheries.
The Greenland halibut stock in 4RST Divisions has been declining since the mid-2000s. Since 2025, it has been within the critical zone of the precautionary approach framework.
In accordance with the precautionary approach framework in place, bycatch of Greenland halibut in other commercial fisheries must be kept to the lowest possible level. DFO will monitor fishing activities and may close certain fisheries if bycatch rates exceed the limits prescribed in the Conservation Harvest Plans and Procedures for monitoring and control of small fish catches and bycatch in Gulf of St. Lawrence fisheries.