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Each winter, the Bay of Biscay becomes a critical area for dolphin populations, often leading to tragic outcomes due to increased fishing activities. Historically, hundreds of dolphins have washed ashore along the coasts of France and Spain, many found entangled in fishing nets. In response to this ongoing issue, the European Commission has announced the reintroduction of a seasonal fishing ban in early 2026.
The fishing ban, scheduled from January 22 to February 20, will affect vessels over eight meters in length operating in the Bay of Biscay. This measure aims to protect dolphins during their migration period, which coincides with heightened fishing activity. The decision to implement this ban marks the third consecutive year that the European Union has established such restrictions, and it comes on the heels of significant drops in dolphin mortality rates due to similar past actions.
Data from 2025 indicated a marked decrease in dolphin deaths, reinforcing the effectiveness of the ban as a conservation strategy. Researchers from PELAGIS, a French marine observatory, have long advocated for reduced fishing during critical migration times, providing data that supports this initiative.
The fishing ban will impact approximately 300 vessels across EU member states, prompting potential economic disruptions for many small and medium-sized fisheries. Acknowledging this, the European Commission has made compensation available through the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and additional national aid. This approach aims to balance environmental conservation with the economic stability of coastal communities.
In addition to the seasonal ban, the EU is committed to year-round measures to enhance dolphin protection. These include mandatory acoustic deterrent devices on specific vessels and expanded monitoring programs, such as on-board observers and video systems to track interactions between marine life and fishing gear.
This multifaceted strategy exemplifies a pragmatic approach to conservation, addressing both the urgent need to protect wildlife and the realities of the fishing industry. The seasonal fishing ban and accompanying measures aim not only to safeguard dolphin populations but also to set a precedent for similar conservation efforts globally. As preparations for the 2026 season begin, there is hope that this initiative will serve as a sustainable model for harmonizing environmental and economic interests.
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