Capelin in NAFO Divisions 2J3KLPs 2026
Species and area
There are two Capelin stocks in eastern and southern Newfoundland and Labrador; 2J3KL and 3Ps.
Season openings and closings (subject to change)
Season opening dates for 2+3 capelin will be determined in consultation with industry, considering the industry quality standards and the processing sector's readiness to buy. The season for each area and fleet sector will remain open provided there are commercial quantities available and quota remaining to be harvested.
Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and sharing arrangements
The TAC for 2J3KLPs capelin is set at 14,533 metric tonnes for 2026. This is Status Quo from 2025. The TAC is allocated to the respective quota areas and fleets in accordance with existing sharing arrangements.
| Area | Gear type | Quota (t) |
|---|---|---|
| 2J | Fixed | 58 |
| Total | 58 | |
| 3K | Mobile | 1,144 |
| Fixed | 3,964 | |
| Total | 5,108 | |
| 3L | Mobile | 3,254 |
| Fixed | 5,145 | |
| Total | 8,399 | |
| 3Ps | Mobile | 111 |
| Fixed | 857 | |
| Total | 968 | |
| 2026 TAC | Total | 14,533 |
Management measures
The management measures for the 2026 Capelin fishery include the following:
- Dockside Monitoring Program requirement for the commercial fishery (all fleets and areas), and a water allowance of 3% applied at dockside
- At-sea observer coverage for the capelin fishery
- Prohibition of trap net leaders with a mesh size of greater than two inches to less than seven inches as a conservation measure to reduce the by-catch of wild Atlantic salmon
- Maximum authorized length of a modified bar seine (tuck seine) of 80 fathoms
- Restrictive leasing provisions
- Completion of logbooks
- Capelin buddy-up arrangements permitted in selected areas
- Daily and seasonal limits
Further details of the management measures are outlined in the Integrated Fisheries Management Plan for 2J3KLPs capelin.
Single or multi-year planning
This information is for 2026 fishing season.
Links to other information
The Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS) Science Advisory Reports on stock status
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