2005 Sportfishing Season Opens April 1
April 1 signals the beginning of another sportfishing season in Nova Scotia when more than 100,000 anglers take to the province's rivers and lakes, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Chris d'Entremont announced today, March 23.
"Sportfishing is a popular recreational activity that contributes more than $85 million per year to the provincial economy," said Mr. d'Entremont. "We are fortunate to live in a province that offers us a variety of angling opportunities."
Anglers should familiarize themselves with any new or changed regulations, as well as changes to licence fees. For example, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries established a new Sportfish Habitat Fund to provide financial support for volunteers who help sustain the recreational fishery.
"A $5 fee is now included in the cost of a fishing licence and will be used for projects aimed at restoring and protecting fish habitat and improving public access to the resource," said Mr. d'Entremont. "This fund will provide our community groups and volunteers with the funding they need to continue their excellent work."
A general licence costs $24.13 (tax included) for residents of Nova Scotia and $54.74 for non-residents. Non-residents can also purchase a seven-day licence for $30.25. There will be no increase in the licence fee for seniors, which is still $5.75, tax included.
The 2005 Angler's Handbook and Summary of Regulations, which accompanies all fishing licences, includes all new regulations and changes to existing regulations. Changes in regulations in the recreation management areas have been developed by the six recreational fisheries advisory councils, in co-operation with the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the provincial Department of Natural Resources.
All anglers over the age of 16 must purchase a general fishing licence. Licences are valid from the date of issue until March 31, 2006. Anglers who plan to fish during the winter portion of the angling season should keep their licence and return their stub at the end of the season. It is mandatory to return the licence stubs and they should be returned after final fishing trips of the season.
Anglers who catch a large fish can register their catch in the Nova Scotia SportFish Registry. This database of large and record-sized fish caught in the province is an exciting way to generate interest in sportfishing. Anglers are invited to submit fish in the catch and release, catch and keep, and youth categories.
Nova Scotians are also encouraged to participate in the annual Nova Scotia Sportfishing Weekend to be held June 4-5. Nova Scotia residents can fish without a general fishing licence.
"This weekend is an opportunity for the whole family to spend time together and to enjoy the outdoors," said Mr. d'Entremont. "It is also a chance for new anglers to be introduced to sportfishing."
Information on angling and a list of special regulations by recreational fishing area can be found on the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website at www.gov.ns.ca/nsaf/sportfishing .