Page 1 YOU AND THE LAW The British Columbia Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis is intended for general information purposes only. Where there is a discrepancy between this Synopsis and the Regulations, the Regulations are the final authority. Regulations are subject to change from time to time and it is the responsibility of an individual to be informed of the current Regulations. Table of Contents All anglers of any age must comply with all regulations set out in this Synopsis as well as any in-season changes as made public by the Ministry. The regulations described in this Synopsis do not apply to tidal waters. Message from the Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Major Regulation Changes for 2007-2008 . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Salmon Regulations in Fresh Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Head Recovery Program Atlantic Salmon Exotic Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 How to Use This Synopsis . . . . . . 4 Regional Boundaries Map . . . . 4 In-Season Regulation Changes . . 4 How to Read the Regional Water-Specific Tables . . . . . . . . . . 5 Licencing and Fees . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Free Family Fishing Weekend (June 15, 16, 17) . . . . 49 Conservation Surcharge Stamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Classified Waters Licences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Dean River Draw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Provincial Regulations ❚ Allowable Fishing Methods ❚ “It Is Unlawful To…” ❚ Rules on Bait Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ❚ Quotas and Size Limits ❚ Protected Species ❚ "No Fishing" Areas ❚ Provincial Parks and Ecological Reserves . . . . . . 10 ❚ Handling Your Catch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 National Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Releasing Fish the Gentle Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Enforcement and Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) . . . . . . . 12 Angling Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Boating Information Fluctuating Lake and Reservoir Levels Boating Safety Does my boat need to be registered? Eurasian Watermilfoil Alert River Boating Etiquette and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Feature Articles Illegally Introduced Alien Sport Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 How to Find Fish in Small Lakes . . . Centre Colour Section Living Rivers Trust Fund . . . . . . . . . . . Centre Colour Section Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Giants of Gerrard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Quality Waters Strategy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 White Sturgeon Recovery Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Proposed Provincial Lake Trout Regulations . . . . . . . . 75 Feature Articles from Past Editions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Other Important Info Angling Safety in Bear Country . . . . . . Centre Colour Section West Nile Virus Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Fish Consumption Advisories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31, 64, 78 Fish Tagging in B.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Fisheries Web Links . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Free “Catch Fishing” Booklet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Fish Identification Key and Ruler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Fish Identification Photos . . . . . . . . . Centre Colour Section Regional Regulations Each of the following Regional sections contains region-specific regulations, Management Unit boundary maps, featured fisheries and tables detailing water-specific regulations. Region 1 VANCOUVER ISLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Region 2 LOWER MAINLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Region 3 THOMPSON-NICOLA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Region 4 KOOTENAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Region 5 CARIBOO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Region 6 SKEENA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Region 7A OMINECA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Region 7B PEACE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Region 8 OKANAGAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 The sale of advertising pays for a significant portion of this publication. The Ministry of Environment neither endorses products or services offered in the advertising nor accepts any liability arising from the use of such products or services. FRESHWATER FISHING REGULATIONS SYNOPSIS 2007-2008 Front Cover: Enjoying a fine autumn day fishing in the Skeena Region. Credit: The Kozak Collection (www.kozak.bc.ca) HOW TO USE THIS SYNOPSIS See Page 4 For an on-line copy of this Synopsis or to check for In-season Regulation Changes go to: www. env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish ➧ REGION 1 VANCOUVER ISLAND REGION 2 LOWER MAINLAND REGION 3 THOMPSON -NICOLA REGION 4 KOOTENAY REGION 5 CARIBOO REGION 6 SKEENA REGION 7 OMINECA -PEACE REGION 8 OKANAGAN Regional Regulations Provincial Regulations We welcome your suggestions. Please send comments to: The Synopsis, Fish and Wildlife Branch, Ministry of Environment, PO Box 9363 STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, BC V8W 9M2
Transcript
Page 1
YOU AND THE LAW The British ColumbiaFreshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis is intended for general information purposesonly. Where there is a discrepancy betweenthis Synopsis and the Regulations, theRegulations are the final authority.Regulations are subject to change from time totime and it is the responsibility of an individualto be informed of the current Regulations.
T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s
All anglers of any age mustcomply with all regulations set
out in this Synopsis as well as any in-season changes
as made public by the Ministry.
The regulations described in thisSynopsis do not apply to
tidal waters.
Message from the Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Major Regulation Changes for 2007-2008 . . . . . . . . . . . 2
P r ov i n c i a l R e g u l at i o n s❚ Allowable Fishing Methods❚ “It Is Unlawful To…”❚ Rules on Bait Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
❚ Quotas and Size Limits❚ Protected Species❚ "No Fishing" Areas❚ Provincial Parks and Ecological Reserves . . . . . . 10❚ Handling Your Catch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Boating InformationFluctuating Lake and Reservoir LevelsBoating SafetyDoes my boat need to be registered?Eurasian Watermilfoil AlertRiver Boating Etiquette and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
F e a t u r e A r t i c l e sIllegally Introduced Alien Sport Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13How to Find Fish in Small Lakes . . . Centre Colour SectionLiving Rivers Trust Fund . . . . . . . . . . . Centre Colour SectionStop Aquatic Hitchhikers! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Giants of Gerrard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Quality Waters Strategy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20White Sturgeon Recovery Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Proposed Provincial Lake Trout Regulations . . . . . . . . 75Feature Articles from Past Editions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
O t h e r I m p o r ta n t I n f oAngling Safety in Bear Country . . . . . . Centre Colour SectionWest Nile Virus Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Fish Consumption Advisories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31, 64, 78Fish Tagging in B.C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Fisheries Web Links . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Free “Catch Fishing” Booklet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89Fish Identification Key and Ruler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Fish Identification Photos . . . . . . . . . Centre Colour Section
R e g i o n a l R e g u l at i o n s
Each of the following Regional sections contains region-specificregulations, Management Unit boundary maps, featuredfisheries and tables detailing water-specific regulations.
The sale of advertising pays for a significant portion of this publication. The Ministry of Environment neither endorses productsor services offered in the advertising nor accepts any liability arising from the use of such products or services.
FRESHWATER FISHING REGULATIONS SYNOPSIS 2007-2008
Front Cover: Enjoying a fine autumn day fishing in the Skeena Region. Credit: The Kozak Collection (www.kozak.bc.ca)
HOW TO USE THISSYNOPSIS
See Page 4
For an on-linecopy of this
Synopsis or to checkfor In-season
Regulation Changes go to:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish
➧
REGION 1VANCOUVERISLAND
REGION 2LOWERMAINLAND
REGION 3THOMPSON-NICOLA
REGION 4KOOTENAY
REGION 5CARIBOO
REGION 6SKEENA
REGION 7OMINECA-PEACE
REGION 8OKANAGAN
R e g i o n a l R e g u l at i o n s
P r ov i n c i a l R e g u l at i o n s
We welcome your suggestions.Please send comments to: The Synopsis, Fish and Wildlife Branch, Ministry of Environment, PO Box 9363 STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, BC V8W 9M2
REGION 1: The lower portions of numerous East Coast/Vancouver Islandstreams are reopened to fishing. These include: Chemainus, Cluxewe,Englishman, Little Qualicum, Puntledge, Quatse, and Quinsam rivers.
● Water-specific gear restrictions are removed for Oyster River. ● Seasonal closures are instituted on the Gold and Muchalat rivers.● Water-specific restrictions are in place for Reginald Lake.● Haslam Creek is closed to fishing. ● No changes to the existing regulations on Cowichan River.
REGION 4: Due to the presence of illegally introduced northern pike,Haha Lake remains closed to fishing (see Notice on p. 50). The rest ofHaha Creek watershed is reopened.
● The Upper West Arm of Kootenay Lake is only open to kokanee harvestfrom May 19 to May 21.
● The daily kokanee quota for a number of lakes is increased from 10 to 15.● The water-specific restrictions are removed from Fish Lake.● Burbot must be released on Columbia and Windermere lakes.● See the Tables for changes on Cartwright and Loon lakes; St. Mary River.● The fall closure is rescinded on Big Sheep, Little Sheep and Kitchener
(Meadow) creeks.
REGION 5: The Fraser River watershed upstream of Williams Lake Riveris closed to all fishing for white sturgeon; see the article on p. 39 for details.
● Water-specific restrictions are in place for Patenaude Lake.● To retain a bull trout from Chilko Lake, it must be at least 60 cm in size.
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Minister’s Message
The Ministry of Environment plans to introduce a new electronic licensingsystem for anglers in the fall of 2007. This system will be available for anglerswho have not purchased their 2007/2008 license by that time and will alsobe available in April, 2008, for anglers purchasing their 2008/2009 license.The e-licensing system will make purchasing an angling license moreconvenient than ever. Watch for further information later this year atwww.gofishbc.com
Steelhead Stream Classification Policy
Welcome to another year of fabulous fishing inBritish Columbia. Our diverse aquaticecosystems are home to a multitude of fishspecies that provide anglers with an incrediblerange of angling opportunities. For example,steelhead return to rivers from Vancouver Islandto the Skeena watershed, trout inhabit bothsmall and large lakes and rivers throughout B.C.and char species thrive in the cold, clear watersof our interior lakes and rivers.
Both B.C. residents and visitors alike oftentravel great distances to enjoy these world-classfisheries. As a result, B.C. has deservedlyearned a reputation as a premier fishingdestination.
Children introduced to fishing at a young agegain an appreciation of the natural world andbecome motivated to participate in activitiesaway from television or video games. Among
its many benefits, angling encourages parents,children, and friends to spend time togetheroutdoors and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C.(www.gofishbc.com) provides hatchery-raisedtrout for stocking in numerous lakes aroundB.C., some of which are highlighted in this year’sSynopsis. In addition, lakes and streams aboundwith many other species and wild fish that offeranglers of all ages and abilities hours ofexcitement and satisfaction.
In 2004, the Province invested $7 million in the Living Rivers Trust Fund. In May of 2006,the Premier tripled the fund to $21-million. Last November, the B.C. Governmentdedicated $10 million from Living Rivers to be used in a collaborative effort designed to restore and maintain healthy and diverse salmon, steelhead and troutpopulations in the Fraser River watershed.
That, combined with $10 million from theGovernment of Canada, means a total of $20million set aside for this vital watershed.The Living Rivers Trust Fund will help protect andrestore B.C.’s rivers, including fish habitat, ensuringthe future for B.C.’s waterways and the anglingopportunities they provide.
All the very best fora successful 2007-08 angling season.
As introduced in last year’s edition of this synopsis, a Steelhead StreamClassification Policy has been implemented by the Ministry of Environment.The intent of the policy is to set out consistent management guidelines for theconservation of wild steelhead stocks throughout B.C., while allowing for thedevelopment and maintenance of first class angling opportunities. The finalpolicy document may be reviewed at: www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/home/steelhead
The development of the policy was based on sound scientific knowledge andextensive consultation with stakeholders. It establishes stream classificationcategories for wild and hatchery-augmented waters, and associatedprocedures and regulations for each category. Under the new provincialpolicy retention of hatchery steelhead is permitted, but wild steelheadmay not be retained and must be released. For quite some time there hasbeen no retention of wild steelhead in most of the province, but the newpolicy does affect certain streams in Region 6 (Skeena). This change comesinto effect on April 1, 2007, the beginning of the 2007/08 fishing season.
E-Licensing Coming This Fall!
DEDICATION
This edition of the Synopsis is dedicated to the cherishedmemory of Larry Wells (1951-2006), long-time employee of the
Provincial Fisheries Program of British Columbia.
Sincerely,
Barry PennerMinister of Environment
Major Regulation Changes for 2007/2008Please refer to the Regional Water-Specific Tables for details • NOTE: New regulations and amendments are highlighted in GREEN
REGION 6: In accordance with the new Steelhead Stream ClassificationPolicy (see Notice below), all wild steelhead must be released. Hatcherysteelhead may be retained from Kitimat River.
REGION 7A (Omineca): The region is closed to all fishing for whitesturgeon; see the article on p. 39 and Notice on p. 78 for details.
REGION 7B (Peace): Several watershed-wide restrictions are replacedwith species-specific release requirements during spawning periods - seethe new Regional Daily Catch Quotas on p. 84.
● The minimum harvest size for rainbow trout is removed.● Pine River downstream of the Hasler Road bridge is reopened to
harvest.● Carbon and Little Carbon creeks are reopened to fishing.● Chowade River upstream of the Horseshoe Road Bridge is closed Aug.
15 to Oct. 15.● All fish must be released from Burnt River.● The standard winter closure of Nov. 1 to Apr. 30 applies to Beattie,
Carbon, Clearwater and Simpson lakes.
REGION 8: For information on the kokanee fishery on Okanagan Lake,see the Notice on p. 90.
● Water-specific restrictions are in place for Kentucky SE Pothole.
NOTE: Regulation changes of a more local significance and not cited aboveare included in the Regional Water-Specific Tables and highlighted in GREEN.
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The management of salmon fisheries in B.C., in both tidal and fresh waters, is the responsibility of Fisheries and OceansCanada (DFO). The regulations for salmon fishing in fresh water are not included in this Synopsis, but are available fromany DFO Office or through the on-line Freshwater Salmon Supplement at DFO’s website (www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish).
To fish for salmon in fresh water, however, a provincial Non-Tidal Angling Licence is required (see page 6).
To retain any salmon caught in fresh water, your provincial Non-Tidal Angling Licence must be validated with aNon-Tidal Salmon Conservation Stamp (see page 7 for details).
Is your salmon missing its adipose fin?
Heads from salmon with a missingadipose fin should be submitted to thenearest Sport Head Recovery Depot. Theheads may contain implanted coded-wiretags with information important formanagement and research.
For more information on this program andthe locations of the recovery depots,please refer to DFO’s website (see above)or call toll free: 1-866-483-9994.
By participating in the Sport Head Recovery Program, you will be enteredinto an annual prize draw. You will also receive information on the originof your fish.
Exotic Alert: Atlantic Salmon in B.C.
The Ministry of Environment encourages anglers to reportthe catch of Atlantic salmon in lakes and streams near thewest coast of the province. Anglers are asked to pay specialattention to salmon with unusual spotting and eroded fins.
Atlantic salmon can be identified by:
● 8-11 anal fin rays (Pacific salmon have 11-13 rays)
● Very noticeable, large, black spots on the gill cover (not common on native salmon)
● Large scales and black spots on the back
● May have very noticeably eroded or worn fins fromcontainment in net-pens
Large Black Dots on BackLarge Scales
No Spots on Tail
8-11 Anal Fin Rays2 - 3 Large Black Spotson Gill Cover
SALMON REGULATIONS
For information on salmon regulations, please contact your nearestDFO office (listed on the Regional Maps in this Synopsis).■ Visit DFO’s website, www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish, for updatedsalmon regulations.■ DFO’s website also has information on salmon identification,packaging salmon for transport, and obtaining a Tidal Waters SportFishing Licence online.
Salmon Sport Head Recovery Program
1. Check any sport-caught salmon that you retain to see if the ADIPOSE fin is missing.
2. If so,please bringthe head to aSport HeadRecoveryDepot.
Please note that when fresh waters are closed to fishing or have gear restrictions outlined in this Synopsis, these regulations apply to fishing for salmon as well as for non-salmon species.
REPORT
SALMON
VIOLATIONS…Please call 1-800-465-4336
Report any captures or sightings of Atlantic salmon to the AtlanticSalmon Watch Program by calling toll free 1-800-811-6010.The entire fish (including entrails) should be saved, preferably frozen, forpositive identification and biological sampling, with as much informationas possible regarding date, location and method of capture.
Regional Boundaries in British Columbia
LOOK UP THE LAKE ORSTREAM which you plan tofish in the Regional Water-
Specific Tables following the RegionalRegulations:
IF YOUR LAKE OR STREAM DOES NOTAPPEAR IN THE REGIONAL WATER-
SPECIFIC TABLES, NO SPECIALREGULATIONS ARE IN EFFECT.THEREFORE, YOU MUST ONLY
FOLLOW:
� The Provincial Regulations and
� The Regional Regulations for the Region you will be fishing in.IF YOUR LAKE OR STREAM DOES
APPEAR IN THE REGIONAL WATER-SPECIFIC TABLES, YOU MUST FOLLOW:
� The Provincial Regulations,
� The Regional Regulations for the Region you will be fishing in, AND
� Any EXCEPTIONS or ADDITIONS listed for your water in the Table.
Note:EXCEPTIONS to regional trout/charsize limits or quotas DO NOT APPLYto species of trout or char to bereleased.
PLEASE DO NOT OVERLOOKREGULATIONS ON TRIBUTARIES AND
WATERSHEDS!There are regulations on some watersthat are not specifically listed by namein the tables. Watch for:
� An asterisk (*) indicates that a regulation applies to all tributary streams that flow into the named body of water, including tributaries oftributaries;Determine whether your stream is atributary subject to special regulations.
For more informationPlease contact any ofthe various Fish andWildlife Regional Offices,the Conservation OfficerService Offices,provincial hatcheries, orthe Fisheries and OceansCanada Offices listed byregion in this Synopsis.
Read and understand thePROVINCIAL REGULATIONSbeginning on page 6. All
anglers must abide by these province-wide regulations on all waters in B.C.In this section you will find information on:� Licensing Requirements
� Definitions you should know
� Allowable fishing methods
� Rules on bait usage
� Quotas and size limits
� Protected species &"No Fishing" Areas
� Cleaning, transporting & exporting fish
� Licence suspensions and prohibitions
� Examining your licence, gear, and catch
� Penalties for breaking fishing laws
Read and understand theREGIONAL REGULATIONS forthe region in which you wish
to fish (see Regional Boundaries mapbelow).The Regional Regulations are listed on thefirst page of each regional chapter. Inthese sections you will find informationon regulations which apply region-wide,such as:
� Regional Daily Catch Quotas, Possession Quotas and Annual Quotas
� Other General Restrictions which apply region-wide, including:
ⓦ Spring closuresⓦ Species closuresⓦ Catch and release periodsⓦ Bait and tackle restrictions, andⓦ Special Notices (such as for
steelhead and bull trout fishing)
2nd
1st � “Watershed” - a regulation on awatershed applies to all of the lakes andstreams whose water eventually flowsinto the named waterbody(e.g., Fraser River watershed).
If you do not know which watershed yourlake or stream is a part of, consult the B.C.Recreational Atlas, or check with a Fishand Wildlife Regional Office or DFO Office.
IN-SEASON REGULATIONCHANGES may have beenadopted after this Synopsis
was published. These will be emailed todistribution list subscribers, listed onthe Fisheries web site, and posted onFishing Notices in the field.
If you would like instant notification of in-season regulation changes, pleasesubscribe to our email distributionservice. To sign-up, send a message fromyour email address to:[email protected],with the following text in two lines(exactly as shown):
subscribe fish_regulations_changesend
You may also check for in-season changesby visiting the Fisheries web site atwww.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish. Scroll downto “In-Season Regulation Changes,” andclick on the appropriate region.
If you have questions about in-seasonchanges, please call the appropriate Fishand Wildlife Regional Office listed below.
4th
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HOW TO READ THEREGIONAL WATER-SPECIFIC TABLES
❶ ❷ ❸ ❹ ❺ ❻ ❼ ❽ ❾ ❿
❶ Column 1This column lists waters with restrictionsnot covered by the Regional Regulations.An asterisk (*) means the regulationapplies to tributary streams as well. A fishsymbol (�) means the lake is stocked.Not all stocked lakes are listed in theTables; see page 88. A CW symbolmeans that this is a Classified Water; seepage 7.
❷ Management Unit (M.U.)This column lists one or moreManagement Units only as a referenceto help you locate your target lake orstream. Not all applicable M.U.’s maybe listed. Consult the B.C. RecreationalAtlas or Regional maps for ManagementUnit boundaries.
❸ No Fishing All forms of sport fishing (see page 9) areprohibited for all species in the waterswith a dot in this column. Look for moredetails about closure dates and areas inthe “Special Restrictions/Notes” column.
❹ Catch & ReleaseYou may fish for the species named inthe “Special Restrictions/Notes” column,but you must release any that you catch.You must return your fish to the water asquickly and carefully as possible (see“Releasing Fish”, page 11).
❺ Exempt, Spring ClosureSome regions have a closure during thespring on all streams to protectspawning fish. Where possible, we havecreated fishing opportunities in sectionsof these streams by exempting themfrom the general spring closure.Exempted streams have a dot in thecolumn titled “Exempt, Spring Closure”.Look for additional information in the“Special Restrictions/Notes” column.
❻ Special QuotaIf a species of fish has quotas or sizelimits that differ from the regionalrestrictions for that species, a dot willappear in this column. The species namewill appear in the “SpecialRestrictions/Notes” column with moreinformation.
❼ Gear RestrictionsA dot in this column is always followedby at least one of the following messagesin the “Special Restrictions/ Notes”column: single hook, single barblesshook, artificial fly only, fly fishing only, orbait ban (see definitions, pages 8 and 9).
❽ Boating RestrictionsBoating restrictions are adopted foreither fisheries management or publicsafety reasons. A dot in this column willbe followed by one of these messages inthe “Special Restrictions/Notes” column:No angling from boats… you may use aboat or other floating device fortransportation in these waters but youmay not angle from that boat.
No angling from power boats… youare not allowed to angle from a powerboat on these waters.
No power boats… you are not allowedto use a boat powered by any type ofmotor on these waters for any purpose.
Electric motors only… you may useonly battery-powered electric motors. Inaddition, wind or human propelled craftmay be used. Boats may not beequipped with internal combustion orsteam engines.
Engine power restrictions… do notexceed the engine power (given inkilowatts) listed in “Special Restrictions/Notes” when boating in these waters.
Speed Restriction… do not exceed thespeed limit listed in “SpecialRestrictions/Notes” when powerboating in these waters.
No towing… do not tow a person on waterskis, a surf board or other water toy.
No vessels… you are not allowed to usea boat or raft of any type.
Please note: most boating restrictions arethe responsibility of the TransportCanada Marine. They are published hereas a courtesy to anglers but, due to spacelimitations, may not be complete. Formore information write to the TransportCanada Marine, Office of Boating Safety,620-800 Burrard St., Vancouver, B.C. V6Z 2J8, or call 604-666-3518.
❾ OtherThis column is used to draw yourattention to additional information in the“Special Restrictions/Notes” column.
❿ Special Restrictions/NotesThis column clarifies dots in othercolumns or provides additionalinformation such as:Age restricted… you may fish in thesewaters only if you are less than 16years of age (residents under 16 do notneed a licence to fish - see page 6), or are in possession of a valid Non-TidalAngling Licence indicating either B.C.Senior or B.C. Disabled.✪ - Denotes age restriction
Classified Water… a Classified WatersLicence is required either all year or forsome shorter period of time (seeClassified Waters Licences, page 7).
No fishing for… you may not deliberatelyfish for the species named even if yourintention is to release any fish that youmay catch. If you accidentally catch a fishof the species named, you must releaseit as quickly and carefully as possible(see “Releasing Fish”, page 11).
Dates… restrictions may apply for all orpart of the year. When no date islisted, the restriction applies all year.When a date is listed, the restrictionapplies only for that period of time.Start and end dates are inclusive.
Fish consumption advisory… in waterswhere fish consumption may present ahuman health hazard.
Parts of waters… many restrictions,particularly in streams, only apply to aportion of the named body of water. Inthese cases, the part to which therestriction applies is described.
Tributaries… when all restrictions citedapply to both the named body of waterand its tributaries, an asterisk (*) isplaced in the first column. Whenonly some restrictions applyto the tributaries then anasterisk is placed afterthe relevant restrictioncited in this column.
RRRREEEEGGGGIIIIOOOONNNN(SAMPLE) Special Restrictions/Notes
Man
agem
ent U
nit
No Fis
hing
Catch
& R
eleas
e
Exem
pt, S
prin
g Cl
osur
e
Spec
ial Q
uota
Gear R
estri
ction
Boatin
g Res
tricti
on
Other
The Regulations listed in the Water-Specific Tables are EXCEPTIONS or ADDITIONS to the Regional Regulations. What follows is an explanation of the information in each column of the tables (up to 10 columns):
Prov
inci
alRe
gula
tions
LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
Page 6
Resident✚ Non-Resident✚ Non-Resident Alien✚
Licence Type (B.C. Residents) (Residents of Another (Residents of AnotherProvince or Territory) Country)
Basic LicencesAnnual Angling Licence $ 36 $ 55 $ 80One Day Angling Licence① $ 10 $ 20 $ 20Eight Day Angling Licence① $ 20 $ 36 $ 50Annual Licence for Disabled $ 1 ★ ★Annual Licence for Age 65 Plus $ 5 ★ ★
Classified Waters Licences (see page 7)Classified Waters Licence (annual) $ 15 ◆ ◆Class I Waters Licence ◆ $ 40/day $ 40/dayClass II Waters Licence ◆ $ 20/day $ 20/day
① You may buy as many One Day and Eight Day Licences (covering 8 consecutive days) as you need, but only one Annual Licence. ✚ See definitions of “resident”, “non-resident” and “non-resident alien” on page 8. Members of the armed services and students returning
to B.C. may be eligible to purchase licences at the Resident rate. For more information, contact a Government Agent. See below *★ Fee reduction not available. Regular licence required.◆ Not available. See “Classified Waters Licences”, page 7.
Note: Most licence fees include a surcharge for the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund.
All annual licences are valid for the current licence year, April 1, 2007 - March 31, 2008, commencing on date purchased. Licences are not transferrable and are not valid unless signed by the licence holder. Note: G.S.T. not included in fees listed below.
If you are 16 years of age or OLDER:
� You must have a valid basic licence to sportfish for any species of fish in non-tidal waters(including salmon) - see definition of “fish” onpage 8.
� You must purchase appropriate supplementarylicences and stamps.
� You must carry your licence while sport fishingand, if asked, produce it for inspection by aConservation Officer, Fishery Officer, RCMPconstable, Park Ranger in a park, or an Officerunder the Wildlife Act.
� Basic and supplementary licences and stampsare not valid in National Parks (except forPacific Rim National Park and the Gulf IslandsNational Park Reserve during the 2007-08season).
If you are UNDER 16 and a resident of B.C.✚:
� You may sport fish without any licence or stamp(but must abide by the regulations).
� You do not need to be accompanied by alicence holder.
� You are entitled to your own quota of fish.
If you are UNDER 16 and not a resident of B.C.✚:
� You do not require any licence or stamp tosport fish, but you must be accompanied by aperson 16 years or older who holds theappropriate licences and stamps.
� Any fish you keep must be counted as part ofthe catch and possession of youraccompanying licence holder.
� If you want to catch and keep your own quotaof fish, you must buy a licence and anynecessary supplementary licences and stamps.
*Ministry’s web site:go to: www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish
then select: � Licence Vendor Search
(includes Government Agents),� Lost Licences, or� BC Disabled Fee Reduction
If you are a resident of B.C.✚ and disabled:
You may qualify for a reduced fee licence.�To get an application form contact any
Government Agent office (see listing on our web site*) or write to:Fish and Wildlife BranchPO Box 9363 STN PROV GOVTVictoria, B.C. V8W 9M2
Note: Refunds will not be issued for licences already purchased at the full price.
If you are an Indian as defined in the IndianAct (Canada) AND a resident of B.C.✚:
� You are not required to obtain any type offishing licence or stamp to sport fish innon-tidal waters.
What to do if you lose your licence:
� A duplicate licence must be obtainedprior to resuming fishing.
� Do not attempt to buy a new licence.You are only allowed one annualangling licence per year.
� Go into any Government Agent office orangling licence vendor (see listings onour web site*) and request a duplicatelicence.
� You will be asked to complete aStatement of Loss form certifying: (1)that you are no longer in possession ofthe original licence, and (2) the numberand species of fish retained under theauthority of all Conservation SurchargeStamps affixed to the lost licence.
� Pay the fee for a duplicate licence -$10.60 for each item lost: basic annuallicence, Classified Waters Licence, or
Conservation Surcharge Stamp (forsteelhead or non-tidal salmon); $1.06for a BC Senior or BC Disabled basicannual licence).
� Note: Duplicate licences are NOTAVAILABLE for One Day or Eight Daylicences, or Conservation SurchargeStamps for Kootenay Lake rainbow trout,Shuswap Lake rainbow trout or char.
Where to buy a licence:� Non-tidal Angling Licences are available
from nearly 1,300 licence vendors and58 Government Agent officesthroughout the province.
� Many vendors are retail outlets that alsoprovide a wide range of angling advice,gear and services.
� A complete list of Government Agentsand Licence Vendors, including severaloutside the province, is available on ourweb site*.
� Licences are also available by mail fromany one of the Government Agentoffices. For more information and anapplication form, please contact one ofthese offices directly.
✚ See definition of “Resident”, page 8.
ProvincialRegulations
The classified waters of B.C. are highlyproductive trout streams. These streamsare classified as either Class I or Class IIand are listed in the Water-SpecificTables for each Region. The ClassifiedWaters Licensing System was created topreserve the unique fishingopportunities provided by these waters,which contribute significantly to theprovince’s reputation as a world-classfishing destination.
All anglers required to buy a basicangling licence must also purchase aClassified Waters Licence beforefishing on a stream during the periodwhen it is classified:
This licence is required in addition to thebasic angling licence and any otherstamps required by regulation. Also notethat a Steelhead ConservationSurcharge Stamp is required at all timeswhen fishing for steelhead, or whenfishing classified waters during theperiod when steelhead are known to be
present. The specific times when aSteelhead Stamp is mandatory are listedin the Water-Specific Tables for eachRegion.
If you are a B.C. resident:
Your Classified Waters Licence may bepurchased from a provincial licencevendor. It is an annual licence. Thismeans you can fish on any Class I orClass II water in the province during theyear the licence is valid.
If you are a NON-GUIDED “Non-Resident”or NON-GUIDED “Non-Resident Alien”:
Your Classified Waters Licence for Class Ior Class II waters may be purchasedfrom a provincial licence vendor. It issold on a per diem basis and is date andwater-specific. Although anglers maypurchase as many Classified WatersLicences as they wish, each licence maynot exceed 8 consecutive days.
If you are a GUIDED “Non-Resident” ora GUIDED “Non-Resident Alien”:
Your Classified Waters Licence for Class Ior Class II waters may be purchasedfrom a provincial licence vendor ordirectly from a licensed angling guide.
It is sold on a per diem basis and is dateand water-specific. Although anglers maypurchase as many Classified WatersLicences as they wish, each licence maynot exceed 8 consecutive days.
EXCEPTION: Non-Resident Aliens(whether GUIDED or NON-GUIDED)may only purchase one ClassifiedWaters Licence for the Dean River.
Note: NON-GUIDED Non-ResidentAliens wishing to fish the Class I - MainSection of the Dean River should referto pages 59 and 63 for details.
SteelheadYour basic licence must be validated with aConservation Surcharge Stamp if youintend to fish for steelhead anywhere inB.C. (whether you intend to keep orrelease your catch). In addition, asteelhead stamp is mandatory when fishingon most classified waters during certainspecified periods, even when fishing forspecies other than steelhead. Refer to theregional tables for dates and exceptions.
This stamp is available with all annualand short-term basic licences, but youare limited to one stamp per year,regardless of how many short-termlicences you buy. Follow the recordinginstructions on the back of your anglinglicence after catching and keeping asteelhead. Please retain your basiclicence for the entire licence year as youmay be requested to complete an annualsteelhead survey.
Note: The ANNUAL province-widequota for hatchery steelhead is 10. All wild steelhead must be released –check the Regional Water-Specific Tables for details.
Non-Tidal SalmonYour basic licence must be validated witha Conservation Surcharge Stamp to keepa salmon of any legal size or species(other than kokanee) from non-tidalwaters. A stamp is not required if youintend to release all salmon caught. Youmust record your retention of adultchinook salmon on the back of yourbasic angling licence.Note: “Adult Chinook” are defined in theFreshwater Salmon Supplementpublished by DFO (see page 3 of thisSynopsis).
Kootenay LakeRainbow Trout
Your basic licence must be validated witha Conservation Surcharge Stamp to keeprainbow trout over 50 cm from themain body of Kootenay Lake. You mustrecord your retention on the back of yourbasic angling licence. No Conservation Surcharge Stamp isrequired if you release all Kootenay Lakerainbow trout over 50 cm.
Shuswap Lake CharYour basic licence must be validated with aConservation Surcharge Stamp to keep charover 60 cm caught in Shuswap Lake*. Youmust record your retention on the back ofyour basic angling licence. No Conservation Surcharge Stamp isrequired if you release all Shuswap Lake charover 60 cm.
Shuswap LakeRainbow Trout
Your basic licence must be validated with aConservation Surcharge Stamp to keeprainbow trout over 50 cm from ShuswapLake*. You must record your retention onthe back of your basic angling licence. No Conservation Surcharge Stamp isrequired if you release all Shuswap Lakerainbow trout over 50 cm.
* Shuswap Lake includes the main body ofShuswap Lake, Little Shuswap Lake, SouthThompson River between Shuswap Lakeand Little Shuswap Lake, Seymour, Ansteyand Salmon arms and Mara Lake.
Page 7
CONSERVATION SURCHARGES
The front of the basic licence contains boxes for up to five annual Conservation Surcharge Stamps described in detail below.These stamps are valid for the licence year, (i.e., to March 31). Anglers who purchase more than one short-term licence(i.e., One Day or Eight Day Licences) should keep the current licence and the original licence with its ConservationSurcharge Stamps together while angling. Moving the stamps to the new licence will invalidate them.
CLASSIFIED WATERS LICENCES
Prov
inci
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tions adipose fin … see diagram on page 96.
adult chinook salmon … defined in theFreshwater Salmon Supplement(see page 3 in this Synopsis).
anadromous… swimming up rivers from theocean to spawn (for example, steelhead).
above … when used in reference to a lake orstream means “upstream of”.
angle … see page 9.angler … a person who angles.annual … the licence year, beginning April 1
and ending on March 31.artificial fly … a single-pointed hook that is
dressed only with fur, feathers, hair,textiles, tinsel and/or wire, and to whichno external weight or external attractingdevice is attached. Two or more hooks tiedin tandem is not permitted. Where gear isrestricted to artificial flies, floats and sinkersmay be attached to the line.
bait … see page 9.barbless hook … a hook without a barb on
any part of the hook, including both thepoint and shank. Existing tackle may bemodified by completely removing thebarb, or by crimping the barb down sothat its point is flush against the shaft.
below … when used in reference to a lakeor stream means “downstream of”.
bull trout … any bull trout that you catchand keep must be counted as part of yourDolly Varden quota.
char … any fish of the genus Salvelinus(brook trout, lake trout, Dolly Varden andbull trout).
chumming … see page 9.Classified Waters … see page 7.confluence …a place where two streams meet..creek … see streams.day … a legal fishing day runs from midnight
on one night to midnight on the followingnight.
down-rigging … see page 9.fish … means fin fish, shellfish and
crustaceans (such as crayfish) in any lifestage, including eggs.
fly fishing … angling with a line to whichonly an artificial fly is attached (floats,sinkers, or attracting devices may not beattached to the line).
hatchery trout … in many waters, hatcherytrout may be harvested but wild troutmust be released. Hatchery trout aremarked before stocking by removal of theiradipose fin (see illustration, page 96).Therefore, hatchery trout must have ahealed scar in place of the missing fin.
ice fishing … see page 9.kokanee … a land-locked sockeye salmon.landed immigrant … a permanent resident
of Canada (as defined in federal statute).
length … to determine whether your fish isof legal size, measure from the tip of thefish’s nose to the fork (near the centre) ofthe tail.
Management Unit … a Management Unit isa subdivision of a region. For detailedmaps of Management Units, the BritishColumbia Recreational Atlas is available atmany bookstores.
max … abbreviation for maximum.min … abbreviation for minimum.non-resident … means you are not a
“resident”, but (a) you are a Canadiancitizen or landed immigrant, OR (b) yourprimary residence is in Canada, AND youhave resided in Canada for theimmediately preceding 12 months.
non-resident alien… means you are neithera “resident” nor a “non-resident”.
ordinary residence … a residential dwellingwhere a person normally lives, with allassociated connotations including apermanent mailing address, telephonenumber, furnishings and storage ofautomobile; the address on one’s driver’slicence and automobile registration, whereone is registered to vote. A motor home orvessel at a campsite or marina is notconsidered to be an ordinary residence.
possession quota … the number of fish ofany species that an angler may have inhis/her possession at any given time,EXCEPT at place of ordinary residence(see above). In most instances, thepossession quota is two times the dailyquota. See Tables for exceptions.
power boat … a boat driven by an electric,steam or internal combustion engine.
resident … means your primary residenceis in British Columbia, AND (a) you area Canadian citizen or landed immigrant,AND have been physically present in B.C.for the greater portion of each of 6calendar months out of the immediatelypreceding 12 calendar months, OR (b)you are NOT a Canadian citizen or landedimmigrant, but have been physicallypresent in B.C. for the greater portion ofeach of the immediately preceding 12calendar months.
quotas … see page 10.river … see streams.roe … see page 9.set line … see page 9.single hook … a hook having only one
point. (In contrast, a treble hook is a hookhaving three points on a common shaft).Note: use of a treble hook is permittedunless “single hook” is specified.
slough … a stagnant channel or backwater.snagging (foul hooking)… hooking a fish in
any other part of its body than the mouth.Attempting to snag fish of any species isprohibited. Any fish willfully or accidentlysnagged must be released immediately.
spear fishing … see page 9.sport fishing … fishing for recreation and
not for sale or barter. Sport fishing includesangling, spear fishing, set lining andcrayfish trapping.
steelhead … a rainbow trout longer than 50cm in waters where anadromous rainbowtrout are found. Both hatchery and wildsteelhead may be found in B.C. waters.
streams … flowing waters (rivers, sloughsand creeks). Note that standing waterbehind a beaver dam on a stream isconsidered part of the stream.
stream mouth … the point at which thesurface elevation of a stream and thewater body into which it flows are thesame, except as posted by signs ormarkers, or otherwise defined.
tributaries … all streams that contribute to alarger stream or to a lake.
trout … all regulations that apply to trout (asa group) also apply to char unless char arespecifically excluded.
watershed … all the streams and lakes thatdrain the land into a named waterbody,including the named waterbody itself.
wild trout … trout not marked as hatcheryfish. Look for a normal adipose fin (seeillustration, page 96) or an unhealed scarin place of that fin, if missing.
year … the period beginning April 1 andending March 31 (the licence period).
Although angling is the most popularform of sport fishing in British Columbia,there are other methods that you canuse to take fish. Your basic fishinglicence entitles you to:angle … fish (with or without a rod) with
one fishing line to which only onehook, one artificial lure OR oneartificial fly is attached.
down-rig … angling with a downrigger ispermitted, provided the fishing line isattached to the downrigger by a quick-release mechanism.
ice fish … with one line and one lure,artificial fly or other terminal attractor. Itis your legal responsibility to warn otherpeople of the existence of your ice holeand remove your ice hut before icebreakup.
set line … you may only fish with a setline (an unattended line) in lakes ofRegion 6 & in lakes of Zone A of Region7. You are allowed to use only one linewith one hook (no smaller than 3 cmfrom point to shank - see below). Anygame fish that you catch other thanburbot must be released. Set linesmust be marked with angler’s name,address and telephone number.
spear fish … means to fish with a spear oran arrow that is propelled by a spring,an elastic band, compressed air, a bowor by hand. No spear fishing for “gamefish” (see definition, page 8) or salmon,except burbot may be spear fished inRegions 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8. No spearfishing of any kind in Region 1.
trap crayfish … with any number or size oftraps for personal consumption. Youmust release all fin fish caught in yourtrap. To help sustain crayfishpopulations, you should release anycrayfish that are less than 9 cm in totallength as well as those bearing eggs oryoung.
All other methods of taking fish areillegal.
It Is Unlawful To....� Use barbed hooks or a hook with more
than one point in any stream in B.C.� Angle with a fishing line to which more
than one artificial fly is attached (i.e.,use “dropper flies”).
� Use a light in any manner to attract fish,unless the light is submerged andattached to the fishing line within 1 m ofthe hook.
� Fish with nets, including dip nets,minnow nets, gill nets or cast nets.
� Snag (foul hook) fish (see definition,page 8). Any fish willfully or accidentlysnagged must be released immediately.
� Use more than one fishing line, EXCEPTa person who is alone in a boat on alake may angle with two lines.
� Place any fishing gear in any waterduring a closed time (a “no fishing”period).
� Angle with a fishing lineto which more than 1 kgof weight is attached (thisdoes not apply todownrigger weights).
� Waste the fish you catch.If your fish is not suitablefor eating or if possessionis illegal because ofquotas, size limits or closed seasons,return the fish quickly and gently to thewater.
� Release fish in a harmful manner ifyou are not going to keep your catch.Follow the catch & release tips outlinedon page 11.
� Buy, sell or barter or attempt to buy,sell or barter any fish caught by sportfishing.
� Damage or interfere with a trap setfor furbearers. If you believe the traphas been set illegally, report it to aConservation Officer.
� Have any live fish in your possessionin the wild, or move any live fish or liveaquatic invertebrates around theprovince or transplant them into anywaters of B.C. Do not keep angled fishalive in a “livewell” or other device, oron stringers, and never use live fish asbait or release your aquarium fish to thewild. “High-grading” is illegal.
� Enter or cross cultivated land, postedland, private land or Indian Reserveland without proper permission.
� ...Please refer to additional restrictionsand requirements on pages 10-12.
Rules on Bait UsageDefinitions
“Bait” is any foodstuff or natural substanceused to attract fish, other than wood,cotton, wool, hair, fur or feathers. Itdoes not include fin fish, other than roe.It includes roe, worms and other ediblesubstances, as well as scents andflavourings containing naturalsubstances or nutrients.
Roe… you must not have more than 1 kgof roe (fish eggs) in your possession foruse as bait unless the roe was obtainedfrom a commercial source that lawfullyobtained that roe, or you have in yourpossession the freshly dressed fish fromwhich the roe in excess of 1 kg wastaken. Carry a receipt with you if youpurchased roe from a commercialsource.
Aquatic invertebrates… you may usefreshwater invertebrates (eg. aquaticinsects and crayfish) in streams as baitunless a bait ban applies. When fishingat a lake, you may not possess or usefreshwater invertebrates for bait.
Chumming… attempting to attract fish bydepositing any substance in the water, isprohibited.
Fin fish… the use of fin fish (dead oralive) or parts of fin fish other thanroe is prohibited throughout theprovince, with the followingexception: You may use the head of finfish or the headless body of fin fish asbait, only:
(a) when sport fishing for sturgeon inFraser River (Region 2 only), or
(b) when set lining in lakes of Region 6 orin lakes of Zone A of Region 7.
Use of LIVE bait isstrictly controlled...to limit the spread of undesirable
and non-native species.
PROVINCIAL REGULATIONS
Set Line Hook(shown 1/ 2 size)
at least 3 cm
PointShank
Prov
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Page 10
PROVINCIAL REGULATIONS
QuotasFor all game fish, there is a quota or limiton the number of fish you may keep.
Refer to the Regional Chapters forRegional Daily Catch Quotas and to theRegional Water-Specific Tables for specialquotas on some individual waters.Daily catch quota … the maximum
number of fish of a given species, groupof species, or size class that you maykeep in one calendar day.
Possession quota … no more than twicethe daily quota unless otherwisespecified (see definition, page 8).
Monthly catch quota … the maximumnumber of fish that you are allowed tokeep in one calendar month.
Annual catch quota … the maximumnumber of fish that you are allowed tokeep in one licence year (April 1 toMarch 31).
Quotas are not cumulative: you cannottake a quota from each region that youfish. A good rule of thumb is this: neverhave in your possession while at or nearany lake or stream, more fish than theallowable quota for that lake or stream.Check the Regional Regulations andTables for daily catch quotas for B.C.sport fish.
Size LimitsSize limits protect fish of certain sizes.Measure your fish from the tip of the nose
to the fork of the tail to determine itslegal length.
Size limits are listed with quotas in the
Regional Regulations and in theRegional Water-Specific Tables. If youcatch a fish protected by a min. or max.size limit, release it as quickly andcarefully as possible (see “ReleasingFish,” page 11).
Minimum size limits allow fish to spawnat least once before they can be caughtand kept. There is no general minimum size limitsfor trout/char in lakes, EXCEPT wherespecifically indicated in the RegionalDaily Catch Quotas or for waters listedin the Regional Water-Specific Tables.
Maximum size limits allow larger fish tobe released to provide future fishingopportunities.
Protected SpeciesIt is illegal to fish for or catch and thenkeep any of the protected fish listedbelow. If you accidentally catch one, youmust release it right away where youcaptured it. The fish on this list areconsidered to be at risk in Canada. Theirstatus has been determined by theCommittee on the Status of EndangeredWildlife in Canada (COSEWIC).
For more information on protected species,please visit Environment Canada’s web site atwww.speciesatrisk.gc.ca/search/default_e.cfm
“No Fishing” AreasMost waters in B.C. are open to fishing forsome species 24 hours of the day, everyday of the year.
There are five basic exceptions:
� “No fishing” areas (see Regional Tables);� Within Ecological Reserves (this page);� Within 23 m below the lower entrance
to any fishway, canal, obstacle or leap; � Within a 100 m radius of any
government facility operated forcounting, passing or rearing fish (e.g.,fishway, fish hatchery, aeration system)unless otherwise designated; and
� Within National Parks unless a specificlocation is identified as being open (see“National Parks” on this page).
Not all “no fishing” areas are posted withsigns. Make sure you read the RegionalRegulations for the area in which you will befishing. If you have any questions, call or writethe local Fish and Wildlife Regional Office.
Ecological ReservesFishing is prohibited in Ecological Reservesin B.C. A complete list of ecological reservesis available from BC Parks headquarters at:PO Box 9398, STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, B.C.V8W 9M9, or on the BC Parks web site:www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks.
Provincial Parks &Recreation Areas
Individuals visiting a Provincial Park orRecreation Area should be aware that thePark Act and its regulations apply, as do thesport fishing regulations in this Synopsis. NOTE: the use of horses, motor vehicles,
motorcycles, snowmobiles, other self-propelled vehicles or bicycles is generallyprohibited in Provincial Parks andRecreation Areas except wherespecifically authorized. All motor vehicleson park roads must be licensed. Use ofaircraft to arrive at or depart from someparks is restricted.
National ParksThe seven National Parks within British
Freshwater fishing is prohibited inNational Parks unless opened under theNational Parks Fishing Regulations. Whereopen, anglers require a National ParkFishing Permit to fish in Park waters.
A provincial angling licence is not validunless otherwise stated for any freshwater within National Parks or NationalPark Reserves.
National Park Fishing Permits andRegulations are available at park visitorcentres and at some local commercialoutlets. The National Parks FishingRegulations may also be viewed atwww.pc.gc.ca by selecting a park andclicking on “Activities,” then “Fishing,” or by contacting Parks Canada at 1-888-773-8888.
For the 2007-08 fishing season only, the provincial freshwater regulations inthis Synopsis will be in effect for thenon-tidal waters in Pacific Rim NationalPark and the Gulf Islands NationalPark Reserve and a provincial anglinglicence will be required. Also note thatall fresh waters within Gwaii HaanasNational Park Reserve are closed tofishing throughout the year.
Fork Length
NOOKSACK DACEIllustration by Lucas Raptis
Transporting andExporting Fish
In order to enforce quotas and sizelimits, our officers must be able tocount, measure and identify your catch.
If you caught the fish yourself youmust:� Keep your angling licence handy while
travelling.� Transport no more than your legal limit.� Ensure your fish can be identified,
counted and measured if necessary(see “Now Wrap it Right”, below).
If you are transporting fish for someoneelse:� Obtain and carry a signed letter from
that person with the following details:the angler’s name, address, telephonenumber and fishing licence number;when and where the fish were caught;the date and place at which you weregiven the fish; the number, species andsize of the fish that you have beengiven and the name and address of theperson to whom the fish are to bedelivered.
� If you will be exporting the fish fromB.C., carry the letter and insure that it isavailable for inspection by fisheryenforcement and/or customs officers ifrequested to do so.
If someone else caught the fish andgave it to you for your personalconsumption:� Keep in your possession a signed letter
from the angler until you have eatenthe fish.
� The letter should list the name, addressand telephone number of the anglerwho gave you the fish; the number,species and size of the fish; and whenand where the fish were caught.
There is a growing trend among anglersto catch and release, unharmed, a part oftheir allowable catch. As well, morerestrictive regulations on specific waterscan severely limit the angler’s allowableharvest. A fish that appears unharmedmay not survive if carelessly handled, soplease abide by the following:
1. Play and release fish as rapidly aspossible. A fish played for too long maynot recover.
2. Keep the fish in the water as much aspossible. A fish out of water is suffocating.Internal injuries and scale loss is muchmore likely to occur when out of water.
3. Rolling fish onto their backs (while still inthe water) may reduce the amount theystruggle, therefore minimizing stress, etc.
4. Carry needle-nosepliers. Grab the bendor round portion of thehook with your pliers,twist pliers upsidedown, and the hookwill dislodge. Be quick,but gentle. Singlebarbless hooks arerecommended, if notalready stipulated inthe regulations.
5. Any legal fish that is deeply hooked,hooked around the gills or bleedingshould be retained as part of your quota.If the fish cannot be retained legally,you can improve its chances for survivalby cutting the leader and releasing itwith the hook left in.
6. If a net is used for landing your catch, itshould have fine mesh and a knotlesswebbing to protect fish from abrasion andpossible injury.
7. If you must handle the fish, do sowith your bare, wet hands (not withgloves). Keep your fingers out of the gills,and don’t squeeze the fish or cause scalesto be lost or damaged. It is best to leavefish in the water for photos. If you must lifta fish then provide support by cradling onehand behind the front fins and your otherhand just forward of the tail fin. Minimizethe time out of the water, then hold thefish in the water to recover. If fishing in ariver, point the fish upstream while revivingit. When the fish begins to struggle andswim normally, let it go.
ProvincialRegulations
Page 11
PROVINCIAL REGULATIONS
To comply with the law, follow these simple guidelines whenyou clean and transport your fish.� Do not can, bottle or fillet fish caught by sport fishing in
non-tidal waters except at your permanent residence (commercial canning of these fish is not permitted).
� Leave the head, tail and all fins on your catch until you
get them to your permanent (ordinary) residence.We suggest you immediately remove the gills andinternal organs of any fish you keep to reduce spoilage.
� Do not freeze fish together in an unrecognizable block.� Please refer to the fish cleaning guidelines in “Angling
Safety in Bear Country” in the Centre Colour Section.
GREAT CATCH! NOW WRAP IT RIGHT!A guide to cleaning and canning your catch in non-tidal waters (for all species except salmon)
Phot
o:Fr
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.C.
Releasing Fish - The Gentle Way
If asked, you mustallow aConservation Officer,Fishery Officer,RCMP Constable,Park Ranger in aProvincial Park, ParkWarden in aNational Park or anOfficer under theWildlife Act toexamine yourfishing licence, gearand catch.
Prov
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Page 12
ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
Vanc
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Inspection
LICENCE SUSPENSIONS & PROHIBITIONS
Did you know? Under Section 24 of the Wildlife Act, theDirector of the Fish & Wildlife Branch, Ministry of Environment,may prohibit you from holding a hunting and/or fishing licencefor a specified period (up to a 30-year prohibition). The periodwill depend on the severity of your offence and is independentof any fine or suspension which may be imposed by a court oflaw upon your conviction for fish or wildlife offences. It pays tobecome familiar with the fish and wildlife regulations and toabide by them.
Notice to ViolatorsThe penalty for fishing offences against the Fisheries Act is afine of up to $100,000, a prison term of up to 12 months, orboth. If an enforcement officer finds any fish illegally caught orheld, or any equipment, vehicle, vessel or other item used inthe commission of an offence, the officer may seize themwithout a warrant. Depending on the severity of the offence,you may be issued a fine by ticket or required to attend court.
Penalties for Breaking Fishing Laws
REPORT ALL POACHERS AND POLLUTERS
Violations of Fisheries, Wildlife or Environmental Protection Laws(except salmon related violationswhich should be reported toFisheries and Oceans Canada at 1-800-465-4336).
Wildlife/Human Conflictswhere public safety is at risk.
What you can do:
1. Familiarize yourself with currentregulations.2. Record relevant details ofsuspicious activities, such as: time,date, location, descriptions of violatorsand/or vehicles. Photographs areuseful.3. Report any fish, wildlife orenvironmental offences as soon aspossible to the ProvincialEmergency Program Call Centre.
Look for this sign along highways and forestryroads in British Columbia
Available 24/7Use This Number to Report:
Report all Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) operates in cooperation with the B.C. Wildlife Federation. The B.C.W.F. pays rewards up to$2000 for information leading to the conviction of persons who have violated laws related to the protection of fish, wildlife, or the
environment, or damaged the property of companies or individuals who provide access to hunters and anglers.
The Conservation Officer Service, Ministry of Environment, has established a partnership with the Provincial Emergency Program Call Centre to operate a toll-free hotline that allows you to report
known suspected poachers and polluters.
The RAPP program is simple, safe and effective. It is based on the principle thatsomeone other than the criminal has information that can solve the crime.
ALL Operators of motorized pleasure craft by September 2009
Who needs it now: - Operaters of ANY motorized pleasure craftUNDER 13ft (4m) are required to carry proof of
competency such as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card
Page 13
ILLEGALLY INTRODUCED ALIEN SPORT FISH
B.C. ’s lakes and streams are home to over 80species of freshwater or sea-run native fish,
many of which support an impressive array of recreationangling opportunities for which the province is world-renowned. Our freshwaters are also becoming home toa growing number of non-native (alien) fish species.While these species may have been established in someregions for decades, we are now seeing anunprecedented rate of spread of some sport fish speciesinto regions were they previously were not found. Inparticular, southern and interior regions of B.C. havereported new occurrences of yellow perch, largemouthbass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, pumpkinseedsunfish and northern pike. While bass were introducedinto a few lakes by provincial authorities early in the20th century, the recently reported occurrences arealmost certainly due to deliberate and illegal activities ofindividuals intent on creating new fisheries.
British Columbians place a high value on native speciesand the recreational opportunities they support. Illegalintroductions pose a new threat to B.C.’s native fisheriesespecially in waterways with connections to othersystems that allow fish to expand their presence.Species such as yellow perch are highly prolific and can
quickly outnumber their native counterparts, competingfor food and resources. Bass and pike are aggressivepredators known to feed on small fish including youngtrout, salmon and sturgeon.
While non-native species may support fisheries in otherlocales, an uncontrolled expansion in B.C. will be at the expense of our high-value native fisheries.
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You Can Help!Protecting our native aquaticsystems and the fisheries theysupport is a high priority and aresponsibility that we all share.Report any suspicious activityrelated to the illegal transfer of live fish to the Conservation OfficerService (1-877-952-7277). It isILLEGAL to release alien speciesor any other live fish into B.C.’slakes or streams, an offence whichholds a penalty of up to $100,000for first time offenders, and/or a
prison term of up to 12 months for a second offence.In addition, a REWARD of up to $20,000 is available toanyone providing information leading to the successfulprosecution of individuals responsible for illegalactivities under the provincial Wildlife Act, or the illegaltransfer of alien fish species into B.C. waters. This rewardis ongoing and is supplied by the B.C. WildlifeFederation, in co-operation with the Ministry ofEnvironment.
The impact may be irreversible inmany cases, and there is no guaranteethat a viable fishery would be created;we may simply lose an existing nativefishery and be left with a stuntedpopulation of an alien species.
Ministry ResponseThe Ministry of Environment isdeveloping policy to address theissue of illegally introduced sport fish.Actions will focus on preventingfurther illegal activities andminimizing impacts where illegallyintroduced sport fish species already occur. Where possible,these species will be removed from waterbodies. Where newintroductions are reported, strict measures to preventexpansion will be undertaken including possible fishingclosures. The Ministry recognizes that some historically-established fisheries for non-native species support popularrecreational opportunities. In such instances, a riskassessment will weigh the conservation risks and recreationalbenefits.
Continued from page 13
ILLEGALLY INTRODUCED ALIEN SPORT FISH
Northern Pike(Illegally Introduced Alien in Southern B.C.)
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Page 15
ANGLING ETHICS
Over 400,000 anglers enjoy fishing BritishColumbia’s waters. If we are not careful, the
popularity that recreational freshwater fishingenjoys may compromise not only the experienceanglers are seeking, but also contribute to declineof some fish stocks, impact fish habitat andincrease conflicts between anglers.
Respect fish and treat them humanely.Keep fish immersed in water until you identify thespecies and its size. Help us look after our fisheriesby limiting your harvest to your needs and neverexceeding the legal limit. Practice “catch andrelease” when appropriate or required (see page 11).
Limit catch & release angling.
Catch and release (C & R) done correctly results inhigh survival rates. Since sub-lethal impacts mayoccur, multiple captures through excessive C & R canaffect individual fish. Don’t practice C & R when fishmay be under stress:
✔ while spawning ✔ in hot weather or warm waterPractise courtesy toward other anglers andrespect their rights.Share the water with other users. Practise goodangling etiquette by:✔ moving around a water body in patterns
appropriate to your gear and local conditions;✔ leaving adequate room between other anglers
and yourself, especially flyfishers.Respect public and private property.Always ask permission before entering privateproperty, including Indian Reserve land. Leavenatural areas as you found them, keep campsitesclean and be careful with campfires.
As angling pressures increase because ofpopulation growth, expanding recreational timeand improved access to our rivers and streams,the need for courtesy and an angling code ofconduct has become more evident.
"Rotation angling" is a system designed toencourage everyone on a stretch of river to fishsequentially through it, whether wading or from aboat. It was designed to allow each angler anequal opportunity to spend some time in theprime pools and riffles. Simply stated, it meansstarting at the head of a pool or run andfollowing the immediate downstream angler at acourteous distance, with everyone progressing ata reasonable pace.
While rotation angling is not applicable to allwaters and conditions, it has become an acceptedpractice on many of our Classified Waters.
ROTATIONAL ANGLING
Courtesy and Common Sense - Enjoying the Experience andSharing the Opportunity.
Rotationalangling is asystem whichcan work wellregardless ofgear type, solong as eachangler respectsthe others’methods.
Angling opportunities provided for somespecies of fish (e.g., trout, char, whitefish)
may have negative impacts on holding orspawning salmon in the same river system. Inmany cases, angling for salmon is prohibitedduring times when angling for other speciesremains open. Anglers can minimizedisturbances or incidental hooking of salmonby adopting these simple voluntary measures:
Gear SelectionUse fishing gear which will effectively avoidhooking salmon. For example, use fly fishing gearwith a floating line and a dry fly. Sinking lines orspoons are not recommended as spawningsalmon can be easily foul hooked. If the targetspecies is smaller than the spawning salmon, useof a light tippet is a good added measure.
Bait SelectionIf bait is allowed, avoid using bait types whichaggressively attract salmon. Using bait such as
worms, grasshoppers or other insects willeffectively avoid salmon yet attract otherspecies such as trout and whitefish.
Wading the RiverConcentrate angling activity in areas of theriver where salmon may be less prevalent. Forexample, avoid deep pools where salmon areholding prior to spawning. Also, avoid areas of shallow water where you observeconcentrations of spawning salmon andtheir redds (gravel “nests”). Salmonredds are generally between 1-2 squaremeters in size and may be recognisedby the appearance of clean lookinggravel which is loose and softunderfoot, as opposed to firmer anddarker gravel nearby. When newlyformed, redds will appear to be adepression with a mound of gravel onthe downstream side. Eggs will beburied in the mound of gravel and for
several metres downstream. Walking on theredds may kill buried eggs, so please avoidthem entirely.
With the cooperation of knowledgeableanglers, it is often possible to maintain anglingopportunities which might otherwise beeliminated to protect vulnerable fish. Pleaseadjust your angling techniques accordingly.
Co-existing with Spawning Salmon
THE BASIC RULES ARE:
✔ Avoid entering the waterdownstream of another angler whois already fishing, unless invited todo so;
✔ Leave adequate room between thedownstream angler and yourself butdo not remain stationary unless noone is following you;
✔ After catching a fish, step out of theline and return to the head of thepool, or start of the line;
✔ If you are not sure about the localetiquette, avoid any problems by firstinquiring about the procedures fromthe anglers already on the water.
Vanc
e Han
na
BC Pa
rks
Spawning sockeye salmon
Page 16
When you leave a body of water:
❚ Remove any visible mud, plant parts, or other aquatic organisms before transporting equipment.
❚ Drain water from equipment before transporting(motors, bilges, and transom wells).
❚ Clean and dry anything that comes into contact with water (boats, trailers, anchors, fishing gear, boots, waders, dogs, etc.)
❚ Never release plants, fish, or animals into a body of water unless they came out of that body of water.
❚ Do not use parts of fish caught in one water body as bait elsewhere.
In addition:Report illegal activities – If you see any activitiesassociated with the intentional or accidental movement of livefish and other aquatic organisms, please report these activitiesto 1-877-952-RAPP (7277).
STOP AQUATICHITCHHIKERS!™
www.ProtectYourWaters.net
Continued on page 89
Prevent the transport of nuisance species. Clean all recreational equipment.
Note: It is illegal to possess or move live fish without a permit.It is also illegal to use live fish for bait or hold live fish in a “livewell” on your boat.
For visitors to B.C. and residents returning from outsideof B.C. – Boating and fishing gear exposed to waters outside ofB.C. may transport alien diseases, parasites, or molluscs fromdistant watersheds into the province. If there is a possibilitythat your gear has been exposed to infested waters, please takeadditional care to thoroughly cleanse and sterilize it as follows:
❚ Chlorine (regular household) bleach is a very effectivedisinfectant which can kill most organisms if used in the rightconcentrations. To kill resistant disease spores found inthe mud, use either (i) 50% solution (1 part chlorine to 1 partwater)–dip equipment into the solution or wipe or spray it on,OR (ii) 10% solution (1 part chlorine to 9 parts water) and soakyour equipment for 10 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly to avoiddamaging gear. Alternatively, pour nearly boiling water overyour gear and allow it to cool. For gear and waders exposedto waters containing New Zealand mud snails, freezingfor 8 hours or a 24-hour soak in 1% salt water solution isalso effective.
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For your safety and the enjoymentof everyone using the river, please:Keep boat launch areas clear so thatall boaters have equal access.Don’t mix alcohol and boating. You willneed your best reflexes to keep you, yourboat and other stream users safe. It’s illegalto operate a boat while impaired.Limit your speed (particularly whenentering corners) to avoid collisionswith other boaters, anglers, swimmersand hidden obstacles. Respect the Universal Shoreline SpeedRestriction (10 km/hr within 30m of theshore).Be careful when boating at dawn and dusk,or in other conditions of limited light orvisibility. Refrain from running your boat throughwater being fished by others. Go slowly ordrift by anglers along the shoreline. Beconsiderate of others.
Avoid sensitive habitats such as shallowwater, spawning areas, and wildlife nestingor foraging areas.
Give animals crossing the river the space andtime to do so. It’s illegal to harass wildlife.
Pack out your garbage. Old fishing line, litter,fuel and oil damage fish habitat, endangeraquatic life and reduce water quality.
BOATING INFORMATION
Water levels in lakes and especially reservoirs can fluctuate overthe year. These fluctuations result in a change in the location ofstream mouths (please check the definitions of “streams” and“stream mouths” on page 8). Note that a stream flowingthrough the drawdown portion of a reservoir basin is notconsidered to be part of the reservoir. Anglers are reminded thatbecause lake and stream regulations may differ, care must betaken to ensure that the proper regulations are followed.
River Boating Etiquette and Safety
Fluctuating Lake & Reservoir LevelsFor important information on regulations related to boating safety,including:● Operator competency requirements;● Horsepower restrictions related to the age of operators;● Universal Shoreline Speed Restrictions; and● Proper use of Personal Flotation Devices (including Inflatable PFDs),Please contact Transport Canada Marine’s Office of Boating Safetytoll-free at 1-800-267-6687, or visit their web site atwww.boatingsafety.gc.ca and click on “The Safe Boating Guide.”Many B.C. waters have boating restrictions in place. Please refer tothe Regional Water-Specific Tables in this Synopsis for boatingrestrictions on individual waters and page 5 for an explanation ofthe various types of restrictions.
Boating Safety
Page 17
All recreational vessels under 15 gross tons andpowered by an engine 10 horsepower (7.5kilowatts) or more must be licenced. Thelicencing process is free of charge throughCanada Border Services Agency (refer to theblue pages in your telephone directory for thetelephone number of the nearest office).
Does my boat need to beregistered?
Bria
n Ch
an
Mar
k Be
ere
Eurasian watermilfoil and other non-nativeaquatic plants can create environmental,recreational and economic problems in ourwaters.
Important:
� Thoroughly inspect your boat and trailer andremove all aquatic plants before launching andafter leaving the water.
� New infestations can develop from even smallplant fragments.
An on-line brochure on Eurasian Watermilfoil is availableat: www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/brochures/milfoil.htmlFor further information on aquatic plants and weeds go to www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/wq_aquatic.htmlor one of the many other websites on Eurasian Watermilfoil.
Milfoil
Eurasian Watermilfoil Alert
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