Moncton (NB), Quebec (QC), St. John’s (NL) and Halifax (NS) - June 12, 2026 – The Department of Fisheries and Oceans wishes to inform members of the Gulf Groundfish Advisory Committee of the management plan for cod in the northern Gulf of St. Lawrence (Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Divisions 3Pn4RS) for the next three management years (2026-2027 to 2028-2029).
No directed commercial cod fishing will be permitted in Divisions 3Pn4RS for the period from May 15, 2026, to May 14, 2029. A total allocation of 500t is established to cover cod bycatch in other commercial fisheries, catches from recreational fishing activities, and catches from food, social, and ceremonial (FSC) fisheries.
In accordance with the objectives set out in the current 3Pn4RS Atlantic Cod Rebuilding Plan, the Department will ensure that bycatch of 3Pn4RS cod in other commercial fisheries are kept to the lowest possible level. The Department will monitor fishing activities and may close specific fisheries if cod bycatch exceeds established limits.