Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Fisheries and Oceans Canada will be pausing the Atlantic mackerel bait fishery in all Mackerel Fishing Areas as of 12:00 PM (Atlantic Daylight Time) on August 20, 2026. This notice to stop fishing is for conservation purposes as landings are nearing the second 466.67 tonne portion of the total allowable catch (TAC).  

For harvesters with a multi-species bait licence, please refer to your conditions of licence. 

The third opening for the 2026 mackerel bait fishery is planned for early October and will be communicated separately.

The Regional Director General, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador Region, gives notice that Variation Order 2026-140 has been revoked, and Variation Order 2026-146 will come into force on August 20, 2026.