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Minister Keith Ashfield Announces Groundfish Management Plans for 2011

The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Gateway, today announced the details of the 2011 Recreational Groundfish Fishery for Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as details for the 2J3KL Northern Cod Stewardship Fishery.

"Recognizing the importance of this fishery to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, I am committed to the long-term prosperity of this fishery," said Minister Ashfield. "In taking all factors into account, I am pleased to announce that both the recreational groundfish fishery for all inshore waters around Newfoundland and Labrador and the Northern cod stewardship fishery will remain the same as last year's fishery."

The recreational groundfish fishery will be open in NAFO Divisions 2J3KL, 4R3Pn and 3Ps for three weeks in the summer from Saturday, July 23 to Sunday, August 14, and for one week in the fall from Saturday, September 24 to Sunday, October 2. As in previous years there will be a daily bag limit of five fish per person, and a boat limit of 15 fish when three or more people are fishing. This includes tour boats.

Provisions in this year's recreational fishery will again allow disabled persons to designate a person to catch their daily limit of groundfish. The disability must be confirmed by a medical professional, such as a physician or optometrist. Residents who had a disability confirmed in previous years are required to apply for a 2011 designation, but they are not required to submit a new form. Additional information is available at DFO licencing centres.

Fishing season dates for the 2J3KL Northern Cod Stewardship Fishery will be determined in consultation with industry; DFO will be undertaking these consultations in the coming weeks. There will be a roll-over of the 2010 Individual Quota level of 3,750 pounds (1,474 kg) for the year per licence holder.

As with all fisheries, fishery officers will monitor fishing activities closely, both at sea and at dockside, to ensure regulations are followed.

Internet: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca