Department of Fisheries & Aquaculture

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit novascotia.ca/coronavirus.
For government office and facility closures and event cancellations, visit novascotia.ca/closures.
Buy Local NS
It’s never been easier and more important to get your hands on local. Explore our buy local directory and find suppliers and farmers' markets near you.
Thank You to our 2020 Conference Attendees
Thank you for joining us for the 22nd Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister’s Conference, partnered with the Seafarmer’s Conference, in Halifax from Feb 25 to 27, 2020
Fisheries and Aquaculture Student Bursary Program
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Student Bursary Program aims to help Nova Scotia fill the labour gap for aquaculture, seafood buying and seafood processing facilities.
Lobster Quality Research and Innovation Centre
A new $2.5 million lobster quality and innovation centre will find new ways to further advance the quality and export value of lobster.
Sportfishing Season to Open April 1
Nova Scotians are encouraged to take advantage of the warmer weather and head to one of the province’s many waterways to enjoy the 2019 sportfishing season opening on April 1
Nova Scotia Launches International Seafood Brand
Seafood exporters have a new brand, Nova Scotia Seafood, to promote products in international markets.
Funding Supports Shellfish Farming
Funding is available from the N.S. Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board to start, expand or purchase a shellfish farming business. Read the release
Hot Topics
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Student Bursary Program
- Atlantic Fisheries Fund
- Process for Marine Aquaculture Licence and Lease
- Defining Lobster Fishermen Concern for Finfish Aquaculture on Lobsters and Lobster Fishing Communities in Nova Scotia: A Pilot Study
- Nova Scotia International Seafood Brand
- NAFTA Consultations
- Canada’s seafood leader
- New Aquaculture Regulations
- Aquaculture Regulations
- Nova Scotia’s Open Data Portal
- Lobster Handling Course
- Report of the Maritime Lobster Panel
- 2020 Angler's Handbook
- Nova Scotia Lobster Consultations
- Services en Français
- Follow us on Twitter @nsfisheries

Aquaculture and Marine Plants
Aquaculture resources, site mapping tool, application process, veterinarian services, leases, licensing, permits, laws and regulations.

Sportfishing
Lake inventory maps, sportfishing guides, event schedule, tackle program, special management areas, licences and regulations.

Commercial Fisheries
Commercial Fisheries resources, activities and events, licensing, permits, laws and regulations.