SUBJECT  : Opening of the Snow crab fishery in area 16A

Sept-Îles – March 31, 2026

Fisheries and Oceans Canada – Quebec Region announces the opening of the snow crab fishing season in area 16A. The opening has been set for Monday, April 6th, 2026 at 5:00 a.m. (EDT) as recommended by the fleet representatives. The fishery will close on Sunday, July 12th, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (EDT).

The other management measures are listed in the 2026 Conservation Harvesting Plan for the snow crab fishery in Areas 12A, 12C, 14, 15, 16, 16A and 17, available on the DFO website.

Furthermore, it should be noted that during the period when fishing is authorized, it is the captain’s responsibility to be aware of notices issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada and Transport Canada regarding marine safety, as well as safety standards and best practices, and to take all necessary measures to ensure safe fishing operations.

Conditions of licence

In order to obtain the Conditions of Licence, fish harvesters must access the National Online Licensing System. For assistance with the National Online Licensing System, please contact customer support by phone at 1-877-535-7307 or by email at fishing-peche@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

For additional information

You can find additional information about management measures and fishing areas on the DFO – Quebec region’s website.

Resource Management

Fisheries and Oceans Canada

North Shore area: 1-800-463-1729

Note: In case of discrepancies between the English and the French versions, the latter prevails.