The prospect of keeping the Bay of Biscay open to fishing in 2027 should be seriously considered, according to French fishing industry body CNPMEM. This would end the winter shutdown of the regions fisheries that has taken place in recent years, designed to prevent cetacean mortality.
The Pelagis report last month outlines estimates of marine mammal mortality in the Bay of Biscay, as well as the outcomes of closing fishing activity for a certain period during the winter.
According to CNPMEM, its conclusions are still insufficient to support action, and as the plan is projected for three years, the end of next winter will be the point at which to develop a comprehensive analysis of ways for fishing and dolphins to coexist from 2027 onwards.
Ongoing trials of various technical solutions are an important factor for fishermen, and a thorough understanding of these interactions continues to be a key research challenge.
CNPMEM states that a methodological shift has now brought modelling data closer to observational data from board commercial vessels – although this has arrived late in the day and the previously higher estimates significantly influenced public opinion, media coverage, and certain political decisions, with lasting economic and social consequences for the industry.
‘This review profoundly changes perception. It confirms what fishermen have been saying for years, but it comes too late. In the meantime, the industry has had to cope with decisions, public judgments, and economic difficulties based on figures that have now been revised. To move forward with confidence, we need stable, transparent, and shared expertise,’ said CNPMEM president Olivier Le Nézet, who commented that complementary socio-economic analyses are also essential.
As part of the 2026 winter closure, 110 vessels are equipped with PIFIL deterrents, and 27 with DolphinFree, while 94 gillnetters and four trawlers have been outfitted with cameras.
In 2025, 274 vessels were forced to remain in port, resulting in significant economic losses for the entire industry, as well as further along the chain of fish markets, wholesalers, and fishmongers.
‘This situation cannot continue indefinitely. The closure weakens fishermen both morally and financially, and compensation is no substitute for their livelihood. Above all, they want to be able to practice their profession with peace of mind, rather than relying on financial assistance,’ Olivier Le Nézet said, commenting that the prospect of reopening in 2027 must now be seriously considered.
‘Fishermen have fulfilled their commitments seriously and responsibly. To prepare for the future, they now need real visibility so they can plan, under favourable conditions, for a reopening in 2027. The industry wants to continue working, making progress, and protecting the environment, but a clear decision is essential to allow everyone to plan ahead.’
