The Gitxsan First Nation has announced a complete fishing ban within its traditional territories for the 2025 season.
This includes the Babine, Bulkley, Nass, Kispiox, and Skeena rivers. The hereditary chiefs cite critically low salmon stocks and drought conditions that have exposed vital spawning beds.
The ban is a necessary step to protect these fish populations and ensure they can reach their spawning grounds.
Sport fishing, including catch-and-release, is prohibited, as it goes against centuries-old Gitxsan laws, which consider it disrespectful to the fish.
Even those with provincial fishing licenses are not permitted to fish in Gitxsan territory.
The Gitxsan ask the public to respect their laws, land, and rights to protect these resources for future generations. Those planning to fish in the area are urged to check DFO maps to avoid breaking the ban.
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