Electronic logbooks (ELOGs)

ELOGs (electronic logbooks) are an important part of the fisheries information management cycle. ELOGs collect data from fish harvesters on their fishing activities. All of this information helps Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to determine measures like licence conditions, annual quotas for species and ensures good fisheries management and protection across Canada. Accurately reporting catch is critical for the longterm sustainability and economic viability of fisheries.

Mandatory use of ELOGs

As of January 1, 2025, it became mandatory to use ELOGs in select fisheries throughout Atlantic Canada and Quebec. For some select fisheries in Quebec (i.e., crab, lobster and select herring fishing areas), ELOGs have been mandatory for a number of years. Beginning in 2026, additional fisheries such as snow crab and lobster fisheries in DFO’s Martimes Region and the Newfoundland snow crab fisheries are required to report catch data using ELOGs.

DFO remains committed to working with industry as we continue to improve and enhance our catch reporting services.

The national mandatory roll-out of ELOGs is following a phased approach, advancing as regional fisheries are ready to come on board. This phased national approach will also ensure that ELOG options are available for harvesters to choose from and that all fisheries are covered by an ELOG application (app).

Harvesters who voluntarily use ELOGs now for any species may do so under the following conditions:

• A qualified ELOG product exists
• License conditions approve the use of ELOGs for a given fishery

ELOGs at a glance

Historically, fish harvesters have provided this data to DFO via paper logbooks. However, this format makes it harder to keep data and information accurate and creates challenges for timely decision making around fisheries management and protection.

ELOGs are a digital solution that make catch reporting faster and more efficient for harvesters. It also means no more filling out paperwork. With ELOGs, harvesters can submit their data in near-real time, helping DFO to get accurate, effective, and consistent catch and effort data from across the country. This means better business and fisheries management, conservation, and protection of our precious ocean resources. Some ELOG apps even allow harvesters to easily review their past submissions at any time.

Connectivity and support for harvesters

ELOG apps are designed to work without needing a continuous internet connection for data entry. Harvesters can enter data while offline and only need a connection when submitting their finalized information. This feature helps harvesters working in areas with poor network coverage.

To further support harvesters, DFO is tailoring licence conditions to give clear instructions on how to submit ELOGs in remote or low-connectivity areas.

For fish harvesters

To start using ELOGs, please visit the following links:

• Electronic logbooks (ELOGs) – Get started!
• Find qualified ELOG client applications
• Find ELOGS fishing area maps
• Frequently asked questions

Have questions about timelines for ELOGs in your region? Or looking for support in making the switch from paper logbooks? You can contact Fisheries and Oceans Canada directly by:

• Telephone: 1-877-535-7307
• Telephone support is available Monday to Friday (excluding holidays) from 07:00 to 17:00 Eastern Time. Alberta and British Columbia: support is available until 19:00 Eastern Time.
• TTY: 1-800-465-7735
• Email: fishing-peche@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
• Please include your name and the DFO Region in which you are located. E-mails will receive a response within a few business days.

For third party providers

The ELOG Program positions Canada on the leading edge of catch data reporting in the fishing industry.

• Learn more about how to enroll with the ELOG program for the development of ELOG client applications