The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has announced further measures aimed at conserving and rebuilding Chinook salmon stocks.
With dismal returns expected this season, DFO has announced a 25-35% reduction in commercial and recreational tidal fisheries for Northern and Southern BC Chinook.
For northern commercial fisheries, the Area F troll opening has been delayed until July 10 along with boundary changes.
The recreational daily limits in North Coast and Haida Gwaii tidal waters will be reduced as follows:
–Haida Gwaii
Effective June 1, 2018 to July 9, 2018, the daily limit is one Chinook per day in Areas 1, 2, 142, and that portion of Area 101 west of 131 degrees 40.0 minutes West longitude.
-North Coast
Effective June 1, 2018 to June 15, 2018, the daily limit is one Chinook per day in Areas 3 to 5, 103 to 105, Subarea 102-1, and that portion of Area 101 east of 131 degrees 40.0 minutes West longitude.
Effective June 16, 2018 to July 9, 2018, there is zero retention of Chinook Salmon in Areas 3 to 5, 103 to 105, Subarea 102-1, and that portion of Area 101 east of 131 degrees 40.0 minutes West longitude.
Effective July 10, 2018 to July 31, 2018, the daily limit is one Chinook per day in Areas 3 to 5, 103 to 105, Subarea 102-1, and that portion of Area 101 east of 131 degrees 40.0 minutes West longitude
Effective June 1, 2018 to July 31, 2018 the daily limit is one Chinook per day in Areas 6 and 106.
The measures are in addition to a sweeping recreational salmon fishery closure across the entire Skeena River watershed announced earlier this month.
DFO says the cuts are to address conservation concerns for Nass River, Skeena River, and many small wild Chinook populations in Northern BC as well as all Fraser River Chinook populations.
Officials have also announced Southern BC Chinook management measures.
