Justice and Public Safety
December 16, 2016

Number of Serious Fish-Related Offences Significantly Increase in 2016

While the overall number of fish-related violations in 2016 was comparable to 2015, there was a significant increase in the more serious offences. Particularly concerning for the province�s Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Division is the dramatic increase in the types of offences which have the most detrimental impact on salmon populations. This summer, one file alone saw the seizure of 54 Atlantic salmon from an illegal net in Traverse Brook.

Compared to the 2015 angling season, the FWED saw a 115 per cent increase in netting violations (from 20 to 43), and a 58 per cent increase in violations related to the illegal sale and/or possession of salmon, (from 17 to 27).

As a result of enforcement efforts, Fish and Wildlife Enforcement officers seized two vehicles, four ATVS, five boats, two bicycles, 15 nets, 24 fishing rods, 122 salmon, 41 trout and other fishing-related equipment.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to protecting the province's fish and wildlife resources and to ensuring they remain available for those who respect legislation concerning the proper management and conservation of fish and wildlife. The public can play a significant role in assisting officers in protecting the province's natural resources by reporting any suspicious activity. This can be done anonymously and toll-free at any time of the day, by calling 1-877-820-0999 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous online reports can also be submitted at www.stoppoaching.ca or www.nlcrimestoppers.com .

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