March 1, 1999
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)

Minister pleased with recreational salmon plan

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, expressed satisfaction with the apparent success of this year's recreational salmon angling plan. "To date most of the comments I have received have been positive. I feel that much of this is due to the fact that DFO has accepted many of the recommendations that have been made by anglers, industry, non-governmental organizations and our own provincial officials over the past number of years. The announcement of a three year plan, the elimination of the split season and the move towards river specific season limits are all positive initiatives" said the minister. Mr. Aylward said that he was encouraged by the atmosphere of cooperation that existed in formulating this year's plan and is hopeful that it will continue into the future.

The minister did have a word of caution for anglers. "This year, due to the fact that different numbers and colours of tags will be valid for different rivers, it is important that anglers give some consideration as to how they will employ their tags. With a little forethought anglers should be able to derive many angling benefits." Anglers hoping to avail of a large salmon in zones 1 or 2 are reminded that they must reserve the Number 4 - white tag for that purpose.

Class 1 Six Tags Numbered 1- 6 (red, white, brown)

Class 2 Four Tags Numbered 1- 4 (red and white)

Class 3 Two Tags Numbered 1 - 2 (red)

Class 4 No Retention

Since Class 3 rivers have the most restrictive tag availability (red only) anglers could benefit, it they have a choice, by using the red ones last.

Further details will be provided in the anglers guide which is being produced by the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Due to the extensive changes in this year's salmon management plan, the minister urges all anglers to obtain a copy of this years angling guide, before they go fishing. The minister closed by wishing all anglers a productive season and hoped that the salmon would cooperate, by returning in healthy numbers.

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, (709) 729-6183.

1999 03 01 10:00 a.m.