Based on preliminary data, bait landings for Atlantic mackerel personal-use bait fishery are 337 tonnes. This represents over 72% of the second 466.67-tonne quota. As landings are nearing the second portion of the fishery, a notice to pause fishing on August 20 at 12:00 PM (Atlantic) is attached for your reference.
Notice to Stop Fishing Atlantic Mackerel Bait Tranche 2 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 license, please refer to your conditions of license.
The third opening for the 2026 mackerel bait fishery is planned for early October and will be communicated separately. Todd Williams Chair - Atlantic Mackerel Advisory Committee