Conservation Officers Ask Nova Scotians to Help Protect Recreational Fishery

Provincial conservation officers remind Nova Scotians there is a daily limit on the number of trout that can be caught in most regions.

Naturally low productivity in much of the province's waters limits the number of trout that can be harvested sustainably. Overfishing can reduce the number of spawning trout in the fall and the number of small trout the following year.

"The regulations help protect the opportunity for anglers today and for future generations," said Environment Minister Margaret Miller. "Our enforcement staff are very committed to protecting the sport fishery and will go the extra mile to make sure people follow the law."

Five people were convicted in June for poaching and exceeding the bag limit for trout after fishing in Hunting Lake in the Liscomb Game Sanctuary, Guysborough County, part of Alder Grounds Wilderness Area. They had caught 80 speckled trout in total, 55 over the limit and were fined $1,300 each.

During last year's fishing season, there were 364 charges for violations under the Maritime Provinces Fishery Regulations.

Regulations regarding size, seasons, and bag and possession limits vary throughout the province. The 2016 Angler's Handbook, that outlines the rules, is online at novascotia.ca/fish/documents/Anglers_Handbook_2016.pdf

To report a violation regarding overfishing in lakes, rivers and streams, call 1-800-565-2224 and provide as much information as possible. You can also complete an online form at https://www.novascotia.ca/nse/conservation-enforcement/fillout-form.asp