News Release Archive

NEWS RELEASE (CNS17) -->>
FISHERIES/AQUACULTURE--PROTECTING BROOK TROUT SPORT
FISHING




FISHERIES/AQUACULTURE--PROTECTING BROOK TROUT SPORT FISHING
-----------------------------------------------------------------
To promote conservation of brook trout, Nova Scotia's No. 1 sport
fish, anglers are asked to respect the compulsory
catch-and-release program in effect again this September. 

For the fourth year, brook trout (also known as speckled trout)
will be protected prior to their spawning season to help conserve
stocks.

"We know this measure might disappoint some anglers, but those
same anglers will benefit in the long run," said Jim Barkhouse,
Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. "The results will mean
more fish next spring."

Current regulations allow five brook trout per day to be kept
from the start of the season in April until Aug. 31. Voluntary
catch and release, however, is increasing annually among trout
anglers.

Tony Rodgers, executive director of the Nova Scotia Wildlife
Federation, said the opportunity to fish the brook trout for the
first five months of the fishing season and laying off the last
four weeks is OK.

"Catching brook trout for a month, just for the angling aspect,
is fine," said Mr. Rodgers. "And there are other species anglers
can fish and take home."

The September catch-and-release regulation applies to brook
trout, not to brown trout or rainbow trout.

Mr. Rodgers also said that although the majority of trout hooked
and released survive to be caught another day, anglers can
increase the survival rate by using artificial lures and flies
instead of live bait during September.

Department of Natural Resources staff are monitoring the program.
The penalty for ignoring the catch-and-release regulation is a
fine. 

-30-

Contact: Steve Warburton
         Fisheries and Aquaculture
         902-424-019

ngr                  September 11, 1997                 3:10 pm