NOAA Fisheries has confirmed 76 large whale entanglements in U.S. waters during 2025, down substantially from the 95 cases documented in 2024 but slightly above the 18-year average of 72.7 cases.
Of the 76 confirmed cases, approximately 46% were directly linked to commercial or recreational fishing gear, while the cause of the remaining cases could not be determined. Seventy cases involved live whales, while six involved whales reported after death. Humpback whales accounted for the overwhelming majority of cases, with 65 documented entanglements.
The Pacific Ocean accounted for 78% of all confirmed entanglements in 2025, making the issue particularly relevant to West Coast fishing communities and seafood businesses. NOAA’s report is part of its ongoing effort to evaluate entanglement patterns, gear types, injuries and other factors to inform management measures designed to reduce risks to whales while supporting sustainable marine industries.
The continued high number of entanglements means whale interactions will remain an important issue in fisheries management and regulatory discussions. California fishermen and seafood businesses should continue to monitor NOAA and state actions concerning fishing gear, seasonal management measures and whale-protection requirements. At the same time, the fact that more than half of the confirmed cases could not be directly attributed to commercial or recreational fishing gear underscores the importance of accurate reporting and science-based evaluation when developing future regulations.
NOAA Fisheries is also emphasizing the importance of reporting entangled whales. In California, Oregon and Washington, suspected entanglements can be reported to the Large Whale Entanglement Response Network at 877-767-9425 (877-SOS-WHALE). Members of the public should not attempt to disentangle whales themselves.