Subject : Continuation of exploratory fishing for areas 17, 18, and 19 in 2026

Quebec – February 27, 2026

Fisheries and Oceans Canada – Quebec Region announces that the Regional knowledge acquisition and development plan for areas 17, 18, and 19 (Plan) will continue in 2026.

The Department also announces that exploratory fishing licences planned under Phase II of the Plan for area 19 will be issued in 2026.

The exploratory licence holders concerned will be contacted to plan for the next fishing season. Training on exploratory fishery management measures and lobster sampling to be carried out during the season will also be organized.

The management measures and criteria for participation in the exploratory fishery for the 2026 season will be detailed in the 2026 Conservation Harvesting Plan and in the licence conditions.

For additional information

Contact your area office at the phone number listed below.

North Shore area : 1-800-463-1729

Gaspe-Lower St. Lawrence area: 1-877-898-5559

Magdalen islands area: 418-986-2095