Federal Government Sets Official 2025 Whale Hunting Quota
Published Date: 1/14/2025
Notice
Summary
In 2025, Alaska’s Native whalers can hunt up to 93 bowhead whales, thanks to a special quota set by international rules. This quota helps protect whale populations while supporting Native communities who rely on whaling for their way of life. The new limits kick in on January 14, 2025, keeping the balance between tradition and conservation strong.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 2 mixed.
AEWC Assigned 93‑Strike Bowhead Quota
On January 14, 2025, NOAA assigned the Alaska Eskimo Whaling Commission (AEWC) a quota of 93 bowhead whale strikes for 2025. The AEWC will allocate those 93 strikes among 11 villages and licensed whaling captains must not exceed that number.
IWC Annual Cap and Carry‑Forward Rule
The International Whaling Commission set an annual strike cap of 67 bowhead whales and allows unused strikes from the prior three years to be carried forward, but no more than 50% of the annual strike limit may be added in any one year. For 2025 the IWC combined strike quota was 100 (67 + 33 carry‑forward).
Catch Limits Extended Through 2026–2031
The IWC agreed in September 2024 to extend the aboriginal subsistence whaling catch limits for the bowhead whale for six years, covering 2026 through 2031, provided routine scientific and compliance conditions are satisfied. This continues the multi‑year framework for allowed strikes beyond 2025.
No Sale of Whale Products Except Handicrafts
NOAA and IWC rules prohibit selling whale products taken in the subsistence hunt, except for authentic Native handicrafts. This rule also states no person may receive money for participating in the hunt.
Ban on Taking Calves or Whales with Calves
IWC and NOAA regulations forbid taking calves or any whale accompanied by a calf during aboriginal subsistence whaling. Hunters must avoid strikes that would capture calves or mother‑calf pairs.
Licensing and Operational Hunt Requirements
NOAA rules require that only licensed whaling captains and their crew may engage in subsistence whaling, that captains must have adequate crew, supplies, and equipment, and that captains stop hunting when quotas, seasons, or license status require it. Captains also must not whale in a wasteful manner.
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