Fish. A part of our heritage. Lac Baker

Transcription

1 Fish 2014 A part of our heritage Lac Baker

2 R E P O R T YOUR CATCH & WIN! We Need Your Fishing Information Please take a minute to complete and submit an Angling Card at the end of your 2014 season. The postage paid angling card is found in the center of this book OR you can now complete and submit your card online: Anglers who submit their 2014 fishing information are eligible to win! Win one of two fishing rods donated by the Atlantic Salmon Federation or one of fifteen New Brunswick 2015 resident fishing licences. If you wish to be entered in the draw, be sure to include your name and contact information when submitting your fishing information. Help managers make informed decisions. Help sustain quality fishing in New Brunswick. A summary of fishing related information is available on DNR s website: SAGE Fly Rod Package W I N! Spinning Rod & Reel Package Free 2015 Resident Fishing Licence B

3 A Message from Minister Paul Robichaud Congratulations on the purchase of your 2014 New Brunswick angling licence. Recreational anglers make a significant contribution to the protection of our fish resources through the purchase of licences that help support conservation, stocking and management programs. We encourage people to explore the enjoyment of recreational fishing, and experience New Brunswick s incredible outdoors. We have more than 2,500 lakes and 60,000 kilometres of rivers, brooks and streams. I am pleased to inform anglers that the Department of Natural Resources has recently implemented several initiatives to provide even greater opportunities to fish on Crown waters. I invite you to acquaint yourselves with these changes as we have streamlined the application process, and in some cases, decreased administration fees. The initiatives that we are putting in place will encourage a greater use of Crown waters for fishing in our world-renown waters. Angling remains one of the simplest and most affordable ways for families to come together in New Brunswick s great outdoors. It is one of the finest teaching tools we have to help both young and old gain an appreciation of our outdoor environment. Fish New Brunswick Days (June 7 8) is an excellent opportunity for New Brunswickers to try angling without a licence and for nonresidents to fish without a licence or a guide. I encourage all anglers and would-be anglers to take advantage of these days and try their luck on one of our many lakes, brooks or rivers. I also encourage all anglers to fill out and submit an Angling Card at the end of the 2014 season. The postage-paid angling card is found in the center of this book or can be completed and submitted online at By completing this survey, anglers are providing valuable data to help fisheries managers monitor fish populations throughout the province. Please read this summary, follow the regulations, and have a safe, enjoyable and successful fishing season. Fish 2014 A part of our heritage Province of New Brunswick PO 6000, Fredericton NB E3B 5H ISBN (print edition) ISBN (PDF: English) ISBN (PDF: French) Printed in New Brunswick IMPORTANT: This is not a legal document. This book provides a brief summary of major angling regulations and licence information for the 2014 season. Regulations are subject to change at any time. This book does not cover all the laws contained in federal and provincial acts and regulations. For additional information regarding season dates, bag limits, possession limits, size limits or gear restrictions, contact your local Department of Fisheries and Oceans. Table of Contents Definitions How to Use this Summary New for Proposed Regulation Changes for Angling Licences and Fees Sea-Run Atlantic Salmon Information Information for non-residents DNR Fish Stocking Program Fish New Brunswick Days Recreational Fishery Areas (RFA) Restigouche Chaleur Miramichi Southeast Inner Bay of Fundy Lower Saint John Southwest Upper Saint John Additional Information Marine Species and Shellfish CROWN RESERVE WATERS

4 Definitions Angling: Fishing with a line to which up to three hooks are attached, held in the hand or attached to a rod. Artificial Fly: A single hook, a double hook or two single hooks dressed with materials likely to attract fish, with no weight, spinning device or natural bait attached. Boundary Waters: Waters forming the boundary between the State of Maine and/or the Province of Quebec and the Province of New Brunswick. Bag Limits: Except for sea-run Atlantic salmon, the possession limit for a particular species is the same as the daily bag limit. Fly Fishing: To cast upon the water and retrieve in the usual and ordinary manner an unbaited, unweighted artificial fly attached to a line to which no weight has been added. Trolling with artificial flies is permitted. Fly Fishing Only Waters (Scheduled): Waters where fly fishing is the only method of angling permitted. Guide Required Waters: Waters deemed to be angled mainly for Atlantic Salmon. Non-Residents require a guide while angling for any species on these waters after the designated date. Hook: A single, double or treble hook, with or without barbs, on one shank or shaft. Jigging: Manipulating a hook(s) to foul-hook a fish in any part of its body instead of its mouth. Foul-hooked fish are those fish hooked accidentally in any part of the body except the mouth, which must be released unharmed immediately. Length Measurements: Fork length (FL) is measured from the tip of the nose to the fork of the tail used when measuring Atlantic salmon or landlocked salmon. Total length (TL) is measured from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail (tips of the tail squeezed together) used when measuring all other fish. Live Release: Capture and immediate release of live fish. Main Restigouche River: The main stem of the Restigouche River, from the junction with the Little Restigouche River and Kedgwick River, downstream to the J.C. Van Horne Bridge. Main Southwest Miramichi River: The main stem of the Southwest Miramichi River, from the forks at Juniper, downstream to the junction with the Northwest Miramichi River. Non-Sport Fish Seasons: Legal access to non-sport fish species is governed by the season for sport fish on all waters. If all sport fish seasons on a particular water are closed, then the non-sport fish season is also closed. Resident: a) A person who has resided in the province for a period of six months immediately prior to making an application for a licence. b) A person who has resided in the province for a period of two weeks immediately prior to making an application for a licence, where that person was required to take up residence in the province as a result of being transferred to the province by their employer. c) A person who is taking educational training of a threemonth minimum duration and has been residing in the province for a two-week period immediately prior to making an application for a licence. d) A person who resided in the province for a period of six months immediately prior to taking educational training outside the province. e) A person who has resided in the province for the purpose of employment for an aggregate period of six months within the last 12 months. f) A person who was born in the province and who owns real property in the province. Set Line: A fishing line that is not attached to a rod, held in the hand or closely attended. Sport Fish: Sea-run Atlantic salmon, landlocked salmon, brook trout, brown trout, lake trout, rainbow trout, arctic char, and smallmouth bass. Trolling: Angling with a hook(s) and line that is drawn through the water by a watercraft propelled by mechanical or manual means. 2

5 How to Use this Summary 1. Where: See the map below and turn to the page of the Recreational Fishery Area (RFA) you will be fishing in. 2. Look under Fly Fishing Only Waters: Check if the water you want to fish is fly fishing only. 3. Look under Waters Closed to Angling: Make sure the water where you want to fish is open. 4. What species: Decide which species you want to fish. 5. Look under the species name: For season, bag limit, size limit and exceptions. Recreational Fishery Areas (RFAs) 1 Restigouche page 14 2 Chaleur page 18 3 Miramichi page 21 4 Southeast page 27 5 Inner Bay of Fundy page 29 6 Lower Saint John page 32 7 Southwest page 35 8 Upper Saint John page 38 3

6 New for 2014 The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is committed to the long term economic prosperity and sustainability of the Atlantic salmon recreational fishery in New Brunswick. As such, DFO has implemented the following conservation measures for Atlantic salmon: The yearly quota for Atlantic salmon has been reduced from 8 fish to 4 fish. The number of tags issued with a salmon retention licence will be reduced accordingly. The daily bag limit for Atlantic salmon has been reduced from 2 fish per day to 1 fish per day in Salmon Fishing Area 15 (Restigouche and Chaleur RFAs) on non-boundary waters (see pages 14 & 18). Live release measures in the Northwest Miramichi system have been expanded to include the lower portions of the Northwest Miramichi, Big Sevogle and Little Southwest Miramichi rivers from June 1 to July 31 (see page 24 25). Nepisiguit River below Grand Falls Dam is now live release for salmon after September 30 (see page 19). Hammond River from the railway bridge in Nauwigewauk upstream to the covered bridge in French Village is closed prior to May 1 (see page 32). Nigadoo River from Route 134 bridge upstream to and including Haché Pool is now fly fishing only beginning July 15 (see page 18). Saint John River 100m upstream and 100m downstream from the mouth of Muniac Stream and 350m upstream from its confluence with the Saint John River is closed to all angling after July 1 (see page 39). Striped bass seasons, bag limits, and gear restrictions in RFAs 1, 2, 3, and 4 are to be determined. Contact DFO or visit their website noted below for further details. Miramichi River from Centennial Bridge upstream to include tidal portions of the Northwest and Southwest Miramichi now requires the use of non-offset barbless circle hooks when using bait (see page 24). A number of licensing related changes are being introduced to the Crown Reserve Angling program in Refer to the Crown Reserve Waters section beginning on page 49 for additional information. In-season pool closures in the Miramichi River system There is an overall concern for the status of Atlantic salmon under stressful conditions associated with exceptional climatic events. To reduce the impact of fishing on Atlantic salmon, a protocol to close certain salmon holding pools in the Miramichi River during stressful warm water conditions has been developed using science-based advice. For more information on these conservation measures, please refer to DFO Gulf Region s Recreational Fisheries webpage: Proposed Regulation Changes for 2015 The boundaries of waters to be managed for smallmouth bass have been established through consultation with key stakeholder groups. Smallmouth bass seasons and bag limits will remain unchanged in these areas and will be more liberal in waters outside of these areas. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Gulf Region would like your opinion on the following management considerations for 2015: Implementing conservation-oriented angling practices and gears, such as artificial flies and barbless hooks, in rivers and streams known to have Atlantic salmon returns. Review of winter fishing practices and gear in tidal waters. Please refer to DFOs webpage for additional details: Your input to your local watershed group, river association or fishing organization will be shared at the next advisory meetings. 4

7 Activities not allowed while angling (Applies to the open water season on inland waters) Sport fish may not be caught by means other than angling. No person shall angle with more than one fishing line to which more than three hooks are attached. No person shall use a set-line for fishing in inland waters. No person shall angle for sport fish during the period beginning two hours after sunset and ending two hours before sunrise (see exception, page 15). No person shall fish for sea-run Atlantic salmon with an artificial fly that has more than two hooks. No person shall fish with the aid of an artificial light or light from a fire. No person shall use or possess live fish (including crayfish) as bait in inland waters. Exception: On international boundary waters (between Maine and New Brunswick), live fish may be used as bait provided they are obtained from the water being fished and are not on the prohibited list (see below). On international boundary waters (between Maine and New Brunswick), tidal waters and all inland waters, dead fish can be used as bait, as long as they are not on the prohibited list (see below). The use of the following fish as live or dead bait is prohibited: bass, bullhead, sunfish, yellow perch, white perch, other spiny fin-rayed fish, pickerel, muskellunge, goldfish or other carp. Fishing with bait or lures is not permitted on Crown Reserve Waters. Artificial flies must be used while fishing these waters. Fishing and/or assisting another angler to fish from a bridge is not permitted. Fishing is not permitted within 22.8 m (25 yards) downstream from the lower entrance to any fish-way, canal, obstacle or leap. Fishing is not permitted within a 100 m radius of any facility operated by or on behalf of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans or the Province for the purposes of counting, passage or rearing of fish. Gaffs cannot be used to land sport fish. Jigging devices or spears are not permitted within 15 metres of inland waters. Snares or bows and arrows are not permitted in inland waters or within 15 metres of inland waters unless the person is lawfully hunting or trapping. Fishing by jigging, or assisting in landing fish that have been caught by jigging in inland waters is not permitted. You ve taught them all you know about fishing, including wearing their lifejackets. Fishing is a wonderful sport; an activity you and the kids can enjoy. They look up to you for information and guidance on something you can share together. You ve got them hooked on fishing. The Canadian Safe Boating Council thanks you for getting them Hooked on Lifejackets. 5

8 Angling Licences and Fees Licences are available at Service New Brunswick centres. Residents may also purchase a licence from authorized vendors. Contact your local DNR office to find the location nearest you (see page 42). Type Class Period Salmon Tags Total Cost* Resident: Retention (with tags): Atlantic Salmon 7 (Under 65 years of age) Season 4 $40.68 (Includes all other fish) 8 (10 15 years of age / 65 or over) Season 4 $22.60 Live Release: 16 (Under 65 years of age) Season 0 $ (10 15 years of age / 65 or over) Season 0 $22.60 All fish except Atlantic Salmon 9 Season 0 $ (65 years of age or over) Season 0 $16.95 Non-Resident: Retention (with tags): Atlantic Salmon 1 Season 4 $ (Includes all other fish) 2 7-Day ** 4*** $ Day ** 2*** $59.89 Live Release: 13 Season 0 $ Day ** 0 $ Day ** 0 $59.89 All fish except Atlantic Salmon 4 Season 0 $ Day ** 0 $ Day ** 0 $33.90 * Total cost includes stocking fee, conservation fee and applicable tax. ** Valid only for consecutive calendar days. For example: June 30, July 1, July 2. *** Subject to a reduction in One day angling adventures may be available to resident and non-resident anglers from specific operators and outfitters. For more information, see Licence Requirements Angling licences must be properly signed and carried at all times while fishing. Angling licences are not required in tidal waters, except if Atlantic salmon are retained. New Brunswick tidal water boundaries are described at Anglers can only purchase one Class 1, 7, or 8 licence per season. Anglers 16 years of age and older require a provincial licence while angling in inland waters. An angling licence does not authorize the holder to purchase, sell or barter sport fish. One day angling adventures may be available to resident and non-resident anglers from specific operators and outfitters. For more information, see 6

9 Anglers under the age of 16 Resident anglers 10 to 15 years old must buy an Atlantic salmon licence if they want their own bag limit. Regular angling licences do not entitle anglers to fish on Crown Reserve Waters. A valid Crown Reserve Licence is required in addition to the appropriate angling licence on all Crown Reserve Waters. See page 49 for details. Anglers, who are under 16 and do not have an Atlantic salmon licence, may fish for Atlantic salmon only when accompanied by an angler with a valid salmon licence. The licence holder must include the child s catch in his/her daily catch limit. Anglers under the age of 16 who do not wish to fish for salmon do not require an angling licence. These anglers have their own daily bag limit. Sea-Run Atlantic Salmon Information See individual Recreational Fishery Area (RFA) for detailed Atlantic salmon information. Size Restrictions Only grilse (Atlantic salmon) that are greater than or equal to 35 cm but less than 63 cm (fork length) may be retained. Tagging No person shall be in possession of an Atlantic salmon (grilse) that is not properly tagged. Where a grilse is caught by angling and retained, the person who hooked the grilse, whether or not that person landed the grilse, shall tag it. (See Guide I exemption, page 8) Angling Methods No person shall fish for sea-run Atlantic salmon except by angling with an artificial fly. Anglers may cast or troll using unweighted artificial flies that have single or double hooks. Treble hooks are not permitted. Non-Resident Requirement Non-resident anglers require a licensed guide when fishing for any species on Guide Required Waters after the designated date. (See page 8) Daily Limits Once their bag or daily live release limit is reached, anglers must stop fishing sea-run Atlantic salmon for the day. How to tag a salmon Maximum size limit: less than 63 cm (fork length). 1. Slide tag under gill plate and through mouth. 2. Fully insert tab into locking head. 3. Ensure tag is securely locked. 7

10 Information for non-residents Non-resident anglers require a licensed guide when fishing for sea-run Atlantic salmon, or when angling for any species on Guide Required Waters after the designated date. Non-residents may fish without a guide on Fish New Brunswick Days but require an appropriate licence if sea-run Atlantic salmon, or landlocked salmon (greater than 48 cm and less than 63 cm) are retained. A professional guide (Guide I) is permitted to angle and hook a salmon on behalf of his or her licensed client. The client is considered to have hooked the salmon and may tag the fish, provided it is of legal length. This special tagging provision does not apply to Crown Reserve Waters. Professional guides (Guide I) and their clients cannot fish at the same time. Non-residents may purchase any number or combination of Class 2 or Class 3 licences as long as the total number of tags does not exceed four per year. Guide Required Waters Non-resident anglers must be accompanied by a licensed New Brunswick guide when fishing these waters after the specified dates. River Guide Required Guide Required Stretch Beginning Restigouche RFA Kedgwick May 15 Entire river Little Main Restigouche May 15 Entire river (Note: a portion of this river is restricted to residents only see page 14) Northwest Upsalquitch May 15 Mouth upstream to the closed waters Patapedia May 15 Entire river Restigouche May 1 From line drawn from Copeland Brook (NB) to Ruisseau du Moulin (Quebec) upstream to Little Main Restigouche Southeast Upsalquitch May 15 Entire river Upsalquitch May 15 Entire river Chaleur RFA Big Tracadie April 15 Murchie Bridge to St. Sauveur road Jacquet July 1 Route 11 bridge to Lower McNair Brook Nepisiguit April 15 Route 11 bridge to Grand Falls Tetagouche April 15 Mouth upstream to Tetagouche Falls Miramichi RFA Bartholomew June 1 Mouth upstream to forks of North & South branches Bartibog April 15 Mouth upstream to Green Brook Big Sevogle April 15 Entire river including North & South branches Cains April 15 Mouth upstream to North Cains River Dungarvon April 15 Mouth upstream to western limit of timber block 222 (N , W ) Little Southwest Miramichi April 15 Entire river Lower North Branch Little Southwest Miramichi April 15 Entire river 8

11 River Guide Required Guide Required Stretch Beginning Miramichi RFA (continued) Main Southwest Miramichi April 15 Doyles Brook upstream to junction of North and South Branches North Branch Renous April 15 Mouth upstream to North Renous Lake North Branch Southwest Miramichi April 15 Forks upstream to Beadle Brook Northwest Miramichi April 15 Red Bank Bridge upstream to the forks Renous April 15 Entire river South Branch Southwest Miramichi April 15 Forks upstream to Flemming Gibson Dam at Juniper South Branch Renous April 15 Mouth upstream to forks with Little Renous River Tabusintac April 15 Cains Point Bridge upstream to Route 8 bridge Taxis July 1 Mouth upstream to Highway 625 crossing Tomogonops June 15 Mouth upstream to South Branch Inner Bay of Fundy RFA Big Salmon June 15 Mouth upstream to Crow Brook Black July 15 Mouth upstream to McDonald Lake Brook Lower Saint John RFA Gaspereau July 1 Junction of Salmon & Gaspereau Rivers upstream to Route 123 bridge Hammond July 1 CN Railway Bridge at Nauwigewauk upstream to McGonagle Brook Kennebecasis June 15 Railway bridge at Norton upstream to highway bridge at Penobsquis Nashwaak June 15 Penniac Bridge upstream to Barker Dam Salmon July 1 Junction of Salmon & Gaspereau Rivers upstream to Little Forks Brook Saint John July 1 Carleton St. Bridge piers upstream to McKinley ferry Southwest RFA Magaguadavic July 1 Mouth upstream to Route 3 bridge Upper Saint John RFA Little Tobique July 1 Forks at Nictau to boundary of Mount Carleton Park Mamozekel July 1 Forks at Nictau upstream to North & South forks Right Hand Branch Tobique July 1 Forks at Nictau upstream to junction of River Dee and River Don Saint John July 1 Old Hartland Bridge upstream to 800 metres below the Beechwood Dam Stickney and Whitemarsh Creek, same boundaries as fly fishing stretches (page 38) Serpentine July 1 Forks of Campbell River upstream to mouth of Salmon Hole Pool Tobique July 1 Tobique River upstream from the upper end of the Tobique Headpond as marked by a Fisheries Officer 9

12 DNR Fish Stocking Program The Department of Natural Resources Fish Stocking Program aims to enhance recreational angling opportunities for brook trout and landlocked salmon by stocking these species annually to a number of lakes throughout the province. Stocking is carried out in the spring or fall, with fall stocked fish (f) generally ranging in size from 10cm to 15cm (4 to 6 ) and spring stocked fish (s) from 15cm to 25cm (6 to 10 ). The table below provides details about the waters stocked in For more information, or a list of previous years stockings, please visit our website: departments/natural_resources.html NOTE: Stocking amounts were below target in 2013 due to unfortunate and unforseen circumstances at the growers facilities. Brook Trout Stocking 2013 RFA County Lake/Pond, Amount stocked (Season stocked) 1 Restigouche Eightmile 3590 (f) Gounamitz 1970 (f) McDougall 2130 (f) Gloucester Bass River Lake 5100 (f) 2 Antinouri (f) Head 510 (f) Indian 2330 (f) Restigouche Lower Tetagouche 5080 (f) Middle Tetagouche 2550 (f) Murray 3970 (f) Popelogan 1240 (f) Tongue 1180 (f) Upper Tetagouche 3090 (f) 3 Northumberland Blind 840 (f) Estey 470 (f) First Bear 1160 (f) North 650 (f) Second Bear 470 (f) 6 Sudbury Fish Rock 1100 (s) 7 Charlotte Ormond 8320 (f) 8 Madawaska Unique (f) Landlocked Salmon Stocking 2013 RFA County Lake/Pond, Amount stocked (Season stocked) 6 Queens Grand (s) Grand 12610* (s) York Oromocto 5000 (s) Oromocto 220*** (f) Chamcook 840 (s) Digdeguash 1080 (s) Gibson 60 (s) Charlotte 7 Little Chamcook 120 (s) Utopia 3400 (s) Wheaton 260 (s) York Magaguadavic 6000 (s) Magaguadavic 240*** (f) 8 Madwaska Baker 180*** (f) * fry ** fall yearlings *** adult DNR Fish Stocking Program Assessment Before being stocked, a fin is clipped on each fish so it can be distinguished from wild fish. If you catch a brook trout or landlocked salmon with a fin clip please add a note on your angler survey (see inside front cover) indicating which fin was clipped along with the length, date and location (waterbody) of your catch. Ventral fins Adipose fin (AD) This information is important in helping us evaluate DNR s fish stocking program. PLEASE REPORT YOUR CATCH! 10

13 A T T E N T I O N T I P S O N R E L E A S I N G F I S H Consider using artificial lures and barbless hooks. Treble hooks and flies will reduce hooking mortality in young fish. Retrieve your catch quickly. Use appropriate size tackle to quickly land the fish or break off large fish. Release the fish immediately by gently placing it in calm water. Keep your fingers out of the gills and eyes. Avoid squeezing the fish. Use both hands to evenly support the fish s weight. Keep the fish in the water as much as possible. Cut the line and leave deeply embedded or swallowed hooks in the fish. A fish that can be legally kept should not be released if it is bleeding heavily. Its chance of surviving is very low. Fish New Brunswick Days June 7 & 8, 2014 Anglers may fish for all species without purchasing a licence. However, anglers wishing to retain Atlantic salmon require a licence. Non-Residents may fish without a guide on these days. Individuals whose angling privileges have been revoked cannot fish anywhere in the province, including on Fish New Brunswick Days. All current bag limits, closures and other restrictions are still in effect on Fish New Brunswick Days. Access to private waters, Crown Reserve waters and Crown Leases is still restricted. 11

14 I N V A S I V E S P E C I E S : What To Do Protect Our Waters New Brunswick waters are being threatened by invasive plants and animals. Once established, invasive species are extremely difficult, if not impossible, to control or eradicate. They disrupt natural ecosystems and are one of the leading causes of native species becoming threatened or endangered. Every time you move from one body of water to another, aquatic invasive species may travel with you. You can help stop them! When enjoying recreational activities like boating and fishing, please remember to do the following: INSPECT and REMOVE all visible aquatic plants, animals and mud from canoes, kayaks, jet skis, boats, motors, trailers and equipment DRAIN all the water from your boat, including the live well, bilge, and motor WASH watercraft with high-pressure or hot water or DRY for 5 days CHECK, CLEAN, and DRY all personal gear, including waders, fishing lines and lures. DISPOSE of unused bait responsibly NEVER RELEASE plants, fish or other animals into a body of water unless they came out of that water! ILLEGAL: Unauthorized Transfer or Stocking of Any Fish What is the problem? Introduced species can prey on resident fish species and compete for food and space. New species disrupt natural ecosystems. They can introduce diseases and parasites to native fish. For more information: What can you do? Do not stock or move fish. It is illegal to transfer or stock any fish without authorization. Be aware of bait regulations. It is illegal to use live fish as bait in most New Brunswick waters. Where use of live bait is legal, use bait from the body of water you are fishing. Never release aquarium or pond fish into natural waters. To report illegal fish stocking activity, please call: 12

15 Be Alert! Largemouth bass have recently been caught in Grand Falls Flowage (St. Croix River). Their presence is believed to be due to an illegal introduction. The New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife encourage all anglers fishing in the St. Croix River drainage to keep all sizes of largemouth bass and to report them to the appropriate agency. The continued presence of largemouth bass may have a negative impact on existing fish species and their fisheries. Identification Tips Largemouth bass: Smallmouth bass: 1 Mouth terminates behind the eye 1 Mouth terminates inline with or slightly ahead of the eye 2 Separation between spiny and soft rays on dorsal fin 2 No separation between spiny and soft rays on dorsal fin 3 Dark horizontal bar 3 Dark vertical patches LARGEMOUTH BASS SMALLMOUTH BASS 13

16 Restigouche Recreational Fishery Area Boundary Description: All lakes, rivers and streams of the Restigouche River and tributaries upstream of the J.C. Van Horne Bridge at Campbellton. Attention anglers: The Restigouche River main stem is primarily private or leased waters. Permission from the owner/lessee is required to angle on these waters. Note: Little Main Restigouche River from the junction of the Kedgwick River upstream to, but not including, the pool at the mouth of Jardine Brook is restricted to Resident anglers only. Fly Fishing Only Waters Excludes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Beginning Stretch Gounamitz July 1 Gounamitz river upstream to the junction of the North and West Branches Jardine Brook, Restigouche County Jardine Brook, Victoria County July 1 August 1 Jardine Brook, Restigouche County, from its junction with the Little Main Restigouche River upstream to the Restigouche-Victoria County boundary line (Grid Reference ) Jardine Brook, Victoria County, from the Restigouche-Victoria County boundary line (Grid Reference ) upstream to the CN railway bridge Kedgwick May 1 Kedgwick River including North and South Branches Little Main Restigouche May 15 Little Main Restigouche River from a line drawn from Grid Reference to Grid Reference (its mouth at the junction with the Main Restigouche River and the Kedgwick River) upstream to Cedar Brook at Grid Reference Northwest Upsalquitch May 1 Northwest Upsalquitch River upstream to Nine Mile Brook (Grid Reference ) Patapedia June 1 Patapedia River, that portion lying within the province of New Brunswick Restigouche May 15 Restigouche River, from the junction with the Kedgwick River downstream to the junction with the Patapedia River Restigouche April 15 Restigouche River, from the junction with the Patapedia River downstream to the Matapedia CN Railway Bridge Restigouche May 15 Restigouche River from the Matapedia CN Railway Bridge to a line drawn from Copeland Brook (NB) to Ruisseau du Moulin (Québec) Southeast Upsalquitch May 1 Southeast Upsalquitch upstream to the first unnamed pool (Grid Reference ) above Boar s Head Pool Upsalquitch May 1 Upsalquitch River 14

17 Waters Closed to Angling Water Stretch Closed Northwest Northwest Upsalquitch River above Nine Mile Brook (grid Year round Upsalquitch River Reference ), not including tributaries. Southeast Upsalquitch River Southeast Upsalquitch River from and including the unnamed pool (Grid Reference ) above Boars Head Pool, upstream to Simpson s Field Falls, not including tributaries. Year round Angling rules for boundary waters with Quebec Patapedia River and the Main Restigouche River downstream from the Patapedia River to the J.C. Van Horne bridge at Campbellton. Angling Licences Angling licences issued by Quebec or New Brunswick are legally recognized on all common boundary waters of the Restigouche drainage upstream of the J.C. Van Horne Bridge at Campbellton. The tidal water boundary recognized by New Brunswick on the Restigouche River is a line between Copeland Brook (NB) to Ruisseau du Moulin (Quebec). However, all anglers fishing the Quebec portion of the waters upstream of the J.C. VanHorne Bridge at Campbellton to this line must have a valid NB or Quebec Angling licence. Legal Fishing Hours on the Restigouche and Patapedia Rivers boundary waters are from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Atlantic Salmon Open season Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between NB and Quebec Spring May 1 31 April 15 May 31 (Restigouche River only) Summer June 1 August 31 June 1 August 31 Fall September 1 30 Live release September 1 30 Live release Limits Daily Bag Limit Live Release Limit Daily Bag Limit Live Release Limit Spring Summer Fall Minimum size (FL) 35 cm 35 cm Maximum size (FL) Less than 63 cm Less than 63 cm Possession 4 4 ATLANTIC SALMON 15

18 Atlantic Salmon Seasons Restigouche Drainage Includes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Spring Kelt Bright retention Live release only Gounamitz N/A June 1 August 31 September 1 30 Kedgwick N/A Little Main Restigouche* May 1 31 Main Restigouche boundary waters April 15 May 31 Main Restigouche non-boundary waters May 1 31 North Kedgwick N/A Northwest Upsalquitch N/A Patapedia N/A Southeast Upsalquitch N/A Upsalquitch N/A * upstream to Cedar Brook Trout Open season Non-Boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Quebec Rivers, brooks and streams May 1 September 15 Patapedia River June 3 September 15 Restigouche River from: Patapedia River downstream to Matapedia CN Railway Bridge..April 15 Sept. 30 Matapedia CN Railway Bridge to the J.C. Van Horne Bridge April 15 Oct. 31 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 15 September 15 N/A Daily Bag and Possession Limits Daily bag and possession (Total 5* 5* of: arctic char, brook trout, brown trout, lake trout, or rainbow trout*) Minimum Size Limits (TL) Brook trout 10 cm 10 cm Lake trout 45 cm 45 cm Arctic char, brown trout, rainbow trout 15 cm 15 cm * No more than two lake trout and/or two brown trout Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits Season: Restigouche drainage upstream from the junction of the Main Restigouche River and the Kedgwick River, including all tributaries May 1 September 30 Daily bag limit: Restigouche drainage upstream from the junction of the Main Restigouche River and the Kedgwick River, including all tributaries (September 1 30) Minimum size limit: Brook trout, Gounamitz River, and South Branch Kedgwick River, not including tributaries cm (TL) 16

19 Non-Sport Fish Non-boundary waters Open season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exception: The season for whitefish ends on September 15 Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A Striped bass Seasons and bag limits to be determined. For further details see DFO website: White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL Smelt SMELT Angling or dip netting Open Season Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Quebec April 15 May 31 April 15 May 31 Daily bag/possession limit Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits Restigouche River, upstream of a reference point at a straight line from Copeland Brook (NB) to Ruisseau du Moulin (Quebec) No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. Smelt season closed 17

20 Chaleur Recreational Fishery Area Boundary description: All lakes, rivers, and streams draining into the Bay of Chaleur seaward of the J.C. Van Horne Bridge at Campbellton and all waters draining into the Gulf of St. Lawrence north of Tabusintac Bay. Fly Fishing Only Waters Excludes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Beginning Stretch Big Tracadie April After September 15 Comeau April After September 15 Big Tracadie River, upstream of a line drawn from N W to N W Comeau River, upstream of a line drawn from N W to N W Jacquet July 1 Jacquet River, from Route 134 (old Route 11) bridge upstream to the head of Kettle Hole Pool Leech April After September 15 Little Tracadie April After September 15 Leech River, upstream of a line drawn from N W to N W Little Tracadie River, upstream of the Route 11 Bridge ( N W to N W Nepisiguit June 1 Nepisiguit River, from the Route 11 bridge at Bathurst upstream to Nepisiguit Falls Nigadoo July 15 Nigadoo River, upstream from Route 134 bridge to a line drawn from N W to N W (including Haché Pool) Pokemouche April After September 15 Pokemouche River, upstream of Route 113 Bridge Portage April After September 15 Portage River, upstream of a line drawn from N W to N W Southwest Caraquet July 15 Southwest Caraquet River, from the Route 11 bridge upstream to Innishannon Brook Waters Closed to Angling Water Stretch Closed Tributaries to All brooks flowing into Nepisiguit Lake, Northumberland County Year round Nepisiguit Lakes Nepisiguit River Nepisiguit River from the head of Pabineau Falls Pool downstream 45 metres Year round Nepisiguit River Nepisiguit River within 100 metres of the Nepisiguit counting fence Year round Nepisiguit River Nepisiguit River from its junction with the Big South Nepisiguit downstream Year round to, but not including, White Birch Pool Nepisiguit River Nepisiguit River from and including White Birch Pool downstream to and April 15 July 14 including Elbow Pool August 16 Sept. 15 Nepisiguit River Nepisiguit River from but not including Elbow Pool downstream to Indian Year round Falls Brook 18

21 Atlantic Salmon Open season April 15 October 29 Season bag limit Daily bag limit Possession limit Maximum size limit, grilse retention only Less than 63 cm (FL) Daily live release limit Spring salmon (kelt) angling Season: April 15 May 15 Daily live release limit (unless daily bag limit is reached) Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits Daily bag limit: Nepisiguit River daily grilse retention Atlantic Salmon Seasons Chaleur Drainage Includes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Spring kelt Bright retention Live release only Bass April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A Benjamin April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A Caraquet April 15 May 15 May 16 October 15 N/A Charlo April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A Eel April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A Jacquet upstream of Halfway Pool N/A June 1 October 15 N/A Jacquet from and including Halfway Pool April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A downstream to mouth Little April 15 May 15 May 16 October 15 N/A Little Tracadie April 15 May 15 May 16 October 15 N/A Middle April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A Millstream April 15 May 15 May 16 October 15 October Nepisiguit from Grand Falls Dam downstream to N/A June 1 September 30 October 1 22 mouth Nigadoo April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A Pokemouche April 15 May 15 May 16 October 15 N/A South Caraquet April 15 May 15 May 16 October 29 N/A Tetagouche April 15 May 15 May 16 October 22 N/A Tracadie below Lord & Foy April 15 May 15 May 16 October 29 N/A Tracadie upstream of Lord & Foy N/A June 1 October 15 N/A 19

22 Landlocked Salmon Open season May 15 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit Minimum size limit cm (FL) Maximum size limit Less than 63 cm (FL) Any landlocked salmon equal to or greater than 48 centimetres and less than 63 centimetres fork length requires an Atlantic salmon tag if it is retained. Trout Open season Rivers, brooks and streams May 1 September 15 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 15 September 15 Daily bag and possession limit Total of: arctic char, brook trout, brown trout or rainbow trout 5* Minimum Size Limits (TL) Brook trout 10 cm Arctic char, brown trout, rainbow trout 15 cm * No more than two brown trout. Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits Nepisiguit (Bathurst) Lake Live release only Nepisiguit Lakes thoroughfares connecting the chain of four lakes open May 15 Non-Sport Fish Open season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exceptions: The season for smelt ends on May 31. The season for whitefish ends on September 15. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A Striped bass Seasons and bag limits to be determined for further details see DFO website: White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. 20

23 Miramichi Recreational Fishery Area Boundary description: All lakes, rivers and streams draining into Tabusintac Bay and all waters draining into Miramichi Bay north of Point Escuminac. Attention anglers: Some stretches on the Miramichi River are private or leased waters. Permission from the owner/lessee is required to angle on these waters. Fly Fishing Only Waters Excludes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Beginning Stretch Bartholomew April 15 Bartholomew River from its confluence with the Main Southwest Miramichi River upstream to the Route 8 bridge Bartholomew April 15 May 15, June 1 Bartibog April 15 30, After September 15 Bartholomew River, from the Route 8 bridge upstream to Leadbetter Brook Bartibog River from the Route 11 bridge upstream to the junction with the South Branch and Middle Branch, Bartibog Rivers Beadle Brook April 15 Beadle Brook from its junction with North Branch Southwest Miramichi River upstream to the junction of the North and South Branches Big Sevogle April 15 May 15, June 1 Big Sevogle River from its junction with the Northwest Miramichi River upstream to its source, including the North Branch and the South Branch Burnthill Brook April 15 Burnthill Brook, from its confluence with the Southwest Miramichi River upstream to its source Cains April 15 Cains River from its junction with the Southwest Miramichi River upstream to Beaver Brook Clearwater Brook April 15 Clearwater Brook, from its confluence with the Southwest Miramichi River upstream to its source Dungarvon April 15 May 15, June 1 Dungarvon River from its junction with the Renous River upstream to the Salmon protection barrier (0.8 km downstream of Stone Brook) Fifteen Mile Brook April 15 Fifteen Mile Brook, from its confluence with the North Branch Southwest Miramichi River upstream to its source Little Southwest Miramichi Main Southwest Miramichi April 15 April 15 Little Southwest Miramichi River, from its junction with the Northwest Miramichi River upstream to its source, including the North Pole Stream and the Lower North Branch Little Southwest Miramichi River. Main Southwest Miramichi River upstream from a line drawn at the mouth of Doyles Brook from grid reference to grid reference , Northumberland County, to the junction of the North Branch Southwest Miramichi River and South Branch Southwest Miramichi River, Carleton County McKeil Brook April 15 McKeil Brook, from its confluence with the Southwest Miramichi River upstream to its source North Branch Renous April 15 May 15, June 1 North Branch Renous River from its junction with the Renous River upstream to North Renous Lake 21

24 River Beginning Stretch North Branch Southwest Miramichi April 15 North Branch Southwest Miramichi River from its junction with the Southwest Miramichi River upstream to its source, including all tributaries Northwest Miramichi April 15 Northwest Miramichi River from the Red Bank/Sunny Corner Bridge upstream to a point 200 metres upstream of the junction of the Northwest Miramichi River and the South Branch Northwest Miramichi River Renous April 15 Renous River from its junction with the Main Southwest Miramichi River upstream to the Route 8 bridge Renous April 15 May 15, June 1 Renous River from the Route 8 bridge upstream to its source, the junction of the North and South Branches in Northumberland County Rocky Brook April 15 Rocky Brook, from its confluence with the Southwest Miramichi River upstream to its source South Branch Southwest Miramichi South Branch Renous April 15 April 15 May 15, June 1 Tabusintac April 15 May 15, After September 15 Tabusintac April 15 May 15, After September 15 Tabusintac April 15 May 15, June 1 South Branch Southwest Miramichi River upstream to the Route 107 bridge at Foreston, Carleton County. South Branch Renous River from its junction with the Renous River upstream to Route 108 Tabusintac River from Route 11 Bridge upstream to a line drawn directly across the river at Stilson Brook (Grid Reference to , Old Boom Landing Road) Tabusintac River from a line drawn directly across the river at Stilson Brook (Grid Reference to , Old Boom Landing Road) upstream to a line drawn directly across the river at Becks Brook (Grid Reference ) Tabusintac River from a line drawn directly across the river at Becks Brook (Grid Reference to ) to its source West Brook April 15 West Brook, from its confluence with the North Branch Southwest Miramichi River upstream to the CN railway crossing Waters Closed to Angling Water Stretch Closed Cains River Cains River from the river ford located approximately three-quarters of a kilometer above the Hopewell Lodge upstream to the mouth of Lower Otter Brook Closed prior to Live Release Crown Reserve period (June 1 September 15) Dungarvon River Dungarvon River from 100 meters below the DNR Salmon Protection Year round Barrier upstream to its source, including all tributaries First and Second Lakes First and Second Lakes, North Esk Parish, Northumberland County Year round Little Bartibog River All waters of Little Bartibog River, Northumberland County, from 25 metres downstream to 25 metres upstream of the Russellville bridge Year round 22

25 Water Stretch Closed Lower North Branch Little Southwest Miramichi Main Southwest Miramichi River Main Southwest Miramichi River Miramichi North Branch Main Southwest Miramichi North Pole Stream North Pole Stream Northwest Miramichi River Northwest Miramichi River Northwest Miramichi River South Branch of the Main Southwest Miramichi River Stewart Brook- Northwest Miramichi River Lower North Branch Little Southwest Miramichi from and including Rocky Rapids Pool upstream to its source, including all tributaries Main Southwest Miramichi River from a point 300 metres upstream from the Quarryville bridge, to a point 300 metres downstream from said bridge, including Indiantown Brook from its junction upstream to Route 108 The north side of the Main Southwest Miramichi River to a point 100 metres off shore, from a point 100 metres upstream to a point 100 metres downstream of the mouth of Wilson Brook, and the waters of Wilson Brook upstream 100 metres from its junction with the Main Southwest Miramichi River, an area known locally as the Bear Den Downstream of Squaw Rock on Main Southwest Miramichi River and downstream of Scott s Rapid Pool on Northwest Miramichi River North Branch Main Southwest Miramichi River upstream from the Bridge Pool to its source, not including tributaries North Pole Stream from the junction of Lizard Brook upstream to its sources in Northumberland County, not including tributaries North Pole Stream from its junction with the Little Southwest Miramichi River upstream to the junction with Lizard Brook, not including tributaries Headwaters of the Northwest Miramichi River from a point 200 meters upstream of its junction with the South Branch Northwest Miramichi River, including all tributaries Waters of Northwest Miramichi River 100 metres upstream to 100 metres downstream from the mouth of Sutherland Brook and Sutherland Brook from its junction with the Northwest Miramichi River upstream to the Route 420 bridge Within 100 metres of the Route 430 bridge(locally known as Miner s Bridge) The South Branch of the Main Southwest Miramichi River upstream from the footbridge behind the Juniper Lumber Mill at grid reference and to the remnants of the old Flemming Gibson Dam at grid reference From its junction with the Northwest Miramichi River upstream to a point 90 metres above the Miramichi Salmonid Enhancement Centre water supply dam Closed outside Live Release Crown Reserve period (June 1 September 15) Closed after July 31 Closed after July 31 September 10 April 14 Closed after June 30 Year round Closed outside Live Release Crown Reserve period (July 1 September 15) Year round Closed after July 31 Year round Closed after April 30 Year round 23

26 Restricted Gear Waters 1. All angling for all species in the following waters is restricted to: a) a single barbless hook or; e) a baited or unbaited non-offset barbless circle hook or; b) an unbaited lure with a single barbless hook or; f) a baited or unbaited lure with a non-offset barbless c) an unbaited spinner with a single barbless hook or; circle hook or: d) an artificial fly with single barbless hook or; g) a baited or unbaited spinner with a non-offset barbless circle hook Water Stretch Date Main Southwest Miramichi River Confluence with Northwest Miramichi River upstream to Doyle s Year round Brook Miramichi River Centennial Bridge upstream to the confluence of the Main Year round Southwest Miramichi River and Northwest Miramichi River Northwest Miramichi River From the junction with the Main Southwest Miramichi River upstream to Red Bank / Sunny Corner highway bridge Year round 2. During the period from April 15 to May 15, barbless flies must now be used for angling all species (including Atlantic Salmon and brook trout) in the Fly Fishing Only sections on the following rivers (see pages 21 22). Tributaries are not included, unless otherwise noted. Main Southwest Miramichi Dungarvon Northwest Miramichi Bartholomew Little Southwest South Branch Southwest Miramichi Big Sevogle Renous Tabusintac Cains North Branch Southwest Miramichi (including tributaries) 3. Bartibog River: During the period from April 15 to April 30, barbless flies must now be used for angling all species (including Atlantic salmon and brook trout) in the Fly-Fishing Only section (see page 21). Atlantic Salmon Open season April 15 October 29 Season bag limit Daily bag limit Possession limit Maximum size limit, grilse retention only Less than 63 cm (FL) Daily live release limit (May 16 October 15) Spring salmon (kelt) angling Open season april 15 May 15 Daily live release limit (unless the daily bag limit is reached) Fly fishing only with barbless hooks. Atlantic Salmon Seasons Miramichi Drainage Includes all tributaries unless otherwise noted Water Spring kelt Bright Retention Live release only Bartholomew River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A Bartibog River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 29 N/A Bay du Vin River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A Big Sevogle River downstream from and including Square Forks to its confluence with the Northwest Miramichi River 24 April 15 May 15 May 30 May 30 August 1 Oct. 15 June 1 July 31

27 Water Spring kelt Bright Retention Live release only Black River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A Burnt Church River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 29 N/A Cains River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A Clearwater Brook April 15 May 15 May 16 Sept. 15 Sept (Mouth to Northeast Branch) Dungarvon River downstream from the Furlong Bridge April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A Dungarvon River upstream from the Furlong Bridge April 15 May 15 May 16 Sept. 15 N/A Little Southwest Miramichi River and its tributaries from Catamaran Brook upstream to and including April 15 May 15 N/A April 15 Oct 15 Cleland s Pool Little Southwest Miramichi River and its tributaries upstream of Cleland s Pool April 15 May 15 N/A April 15 Sept. 15 Little Southwest Miramichi River downstream from and including Catamaran Brook to its confluence with the Northwest Miramichi River Main Southwest Miramichi River junction of Burnt Land Brook downstream to its mouth Main Southwest Miramichi River junction of Burnt Land Brook upstream to forks at Juniper Main Southwest Miramichi River tributaries downstream of Cains River not described in this table Main Southwest Miramichi River tributaries upstream of Cains River not described in this table April 15 May 15 May 16 May 30 Aug. 31 Oct. 15 April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A June 1 July 31 April 15 May 15 May 16 Sept. 30 October 1 15 April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A April 15 May 15 May 16 Sept. 15 N/A Napan River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A North Branch Big Sevogle River upstream of Square Forks April 15 May 15 N/A April 15 Sept. 15 North Branch Main Southwest Miramichi River upstream to the Bridge Pool April 15 May 15 May 16 Sept. 15 N/A Northwest Miramichi River from and including May 15 May 31 Little River downstream to the Red Bank bridge on April 15 May 15 Aug 1 Oct 15 Route 425 June 1 July 31 Northwest Miramichi River upstream of Little River N/A N/A June 10 Sept. 15 Renous River downstream from forks of the North and South Branches April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 15 N/A Renous River upstream from the forks of North and South Branches April 15 May 15 May 16 Sept. 15 N/A Rocky Brook April 15 May 15 May 16 Aug. 31 N/A South Branch Big Sevogle River upstream of Square Forks April 15 May 15 N/A April 15 Sept. 15 South Branch of the Northwest Miramichi River N/A N/A June 10 Aug 31 South Branch Main Southwest Miramichi River from the forks upstream to the footbridge behind the April 15 May 15 May 16 Sept. 15 N/A Juniper Lumber mill, grid reference Tabusintac River April 15 May 15 May 16 Oct. 29 N/A 25

28 Trout Open season Rivers, brooks and streams May 1 September 15 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 15 September 15 Daily bag and possession limit Total of arctic char, brook trout, brown trout or rainbow trout 5* of which only 2 may be greater than 30 cm (TL) Minimum Size Limits (TL) Brook trout 10 cm Arctic char, brown trout, rainbow trout 15 cm * No more than two brown trout Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits: Little Southwest Miramichi River from Big Rock Pool upstream, including East and West branches, not including lakes or tributaries Live release only, beginning July 1 Lower North Branch, Little Southwest Miramichi, including tributaries but excluding lakes Live release only, beginning May 1 Cains River above Route 123 bridge, including the North Branch, upstream to the junction of Beaver Brook Live release only, beginning May 1 Bartholomew River Live release only, beginning July 1 Non-Sport Fish Open Season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exceptions: The season for smelt ends on May 31. The season for whitefish ends on September 15. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A Striped bass Seasons and bag limits to be determined for further details see DFO website: White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. 26

29 Southeast Recreational Fishery Area Boundary description: All lakes, rivers, and streams draining into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Northumberland Strait south of Point Escuminac to the New Brunswick/ Nova Scotia border. PLEASE NOTE CLOSED SEASON No open angling season exists for the following species: Atlantic salmon Fly Fishing Only Waters River Beginning Fly Fishing Stretch Bouctouche July 15 Bouctouche River, from the highway bridge at Coates Mills upstream to the St. Paul Crossroads bridge Trout Open season Rivers, brooks and streams April 15 September 15 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 1 September 15 Daily bag and possession limit Total of brook trout, brown trout or rainbow trout 5* Minimum size (TL) Brook trout 10 cm Brown trout, Rainbow trout 15 cm * No more than two brown trout Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits Starting June 15 to September 15, the following waters are live release only: Northwest Branch, Cocagne River from the junction with the main stem of the Cocagne River upstream to its source, including all tributaries. South Branch, St. Nicholas River from the lower most road bridge (grid reference ) upstream to its source, including all tributaries. Hudson Brook from the junction with the Richibucto River upstream to its source, including all tributaries. Trout Brook from the junction with the Kouchibouguacis River upstream to its source, including all tributaries. South Branch, Bouctouche River from the junction with the Bouctouche River upstream to its source, including all tributaries. Weisner Brook from the junction with the Shediac River upstream to its source, including all tributaries. BROOK TROUT 27

30 Non-Sport Fish Open season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exceptions: The season for smelt ends on May 31. The season for whitefish ends on September 15. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A Striped bass Seasons and bag limits to be determined for further details see DFO website: White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. CHAIN PICKEREL BULLHEAD BURBOT 28

31 Inner Bay of Fundy Recreational Fishery Area Boundary description: All lakes, rivers, and streams draining into the Bay of Fundy eastward of the Saint John harbour bridge to the provincial border between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. PLEASE NOTE CLOSED SEASON No open angling season exists for the following species: Atlantic salmon Fly Fishing Only Waters Excludes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Beginning Stretch Big Salmon June 15 Big Salmon River from Cranberry Brook upstream to Crow Brook Black July 15 Black River, Saint John County, from a point 100 metres upstream from the public wharf in the estuary upstream to Ritchie River Upper Salmon July 15 Upper Salmon River (Alma) upstream from the abutment above the mill dam in Alma Landlocked Salmon Open season: Rivers, brooks, streams april 15 September 30 Lakes, ponds, reservoirs May 1 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit Minimum size limit cm (FL) Maximum size limit Less than 63 cm (FL) Any landlocked salmon equal to or greater than 48 centimetres and less than 63 centimetres fork length requires an Atlantic salmon tag if it is retained. Exceptions to open season and/or bag limits Daily bag limit: Loch Lomond Reservoir and Second Lake Any combination of landlocked salmon or brown trout Smallmouth Bass Open season May 1 October 15 Daily bag and possession limit May 1 June July 1 September September 16 October Minimum size limit cm (TL) 29

32 Trout Open season Rivers, brooks and streams April 15 September 15 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 1 September 15 Daily bag and possession limit Total of arctic char, brook trout, brown trout or rainbow trout 5* Minimum size (TL) Brook Trout 10 cm Arctic char, brown trout, rainbow trout 15 cm * No more than two brown trout Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits Shepody River and its tributaries upstream from the flood gate at Harvey Bank, except McFadden Lake, Fenton and Alcorn ponds May 15 September 15 Bag Limit: Shepody River and its tributaries Trout per day, only one of which can be greater than 30 cm (TL) Bag limit: Loch Lomond Reservoir and Second Lake Any combination of landlocked salmon or brown trout Minimum size limit: Loch Lomond Reservoir and Second Lake Brown trout cm (TL) Non-Sport Fish Open Season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exceptions: The season for smelt ends on May 31. The season for whitefish ends on September 15 In tidal waters the season for striped bass is open year round. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Pickerel cm TL 100 cm TL Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A Striped bass 1 68 cm TL 150 cm TL White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL 30

33 Sturgeon Open season January 1 May 31, July 1 December 31 Daily bag and possession limit No limit Minimum size limit cm (TL) No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. WHITE PERCH SUNFISH YELLOW PERCH 31

34 Lower Saint John Recreational Fishery Area Boundary description: All lakes, rivers, and streams of the Saint John River drainage and tributaries downstream from the Covered Bridge at Hartland to the Saint John harbour bridge. PLEASE NOTE CLOSED SEASON No open angling season exists for the following species: Atlantic salmon Fly Fishing Only Waters Excludes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Beginning Stretch Hammond July 15 Hammond River from the covered bridge in French Village upstream to McGonagle Brook Kennebecasis July 1 Kennebecasis River upstream from the bridge on the Bloomfield Station Road to the bridge at Goshen Keswick July 1 Keswick River from the Route 105 bridge upstream to the CN Railway Bridge at Barton Nashwaak July 1 Nashwaak River upstream from the highway bridge at Penniac to the East Branch, Nashwaak River Waters Closed to Angling Water Stretch Closed Hammond River From CN Railway bridge in Nauwigewauk upstream to the covered bridge in French Prior to May 1 Village Nashwaak River Nashwaak River, from a point 150 metres downstream from Porters Brook upstream After June 15 to a point 30 metres above Porters Brook Nashwaak River Nashwaak River, Big Basin Pool (grid reference ) After June 15 Nashwaak River Nashwaak River, within 15 metres of the junction of (Youngs Brook /McKenzie Brook) After June 15 at the Route 107 bridge at Nashwaak Bridge Palmer Brook Palmer Brook, from the Hammond River upstream 200 metres After July 1 Saint John River Saint John River, from the highway bridge at Grafton to the railway bridge at Upper After June 15 Woodstock Saint John River Saint John River, downstream from the Mactaquac Dam to a line drawn across the river from the mouth of Springhill Brook (Hartt Island Campground) to the western Fredericton city limit just past the junction of Clements Drive and Carlisle Road on the north side of the river Year round Landlocked Salmon Open season: Rivers, brooks and streams april 15 September 30 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 1 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit Minimum size limit cm (FL) Maximum size limit Less than 63 cm (FL) Any landlocked salmon equal to or greater than 48 centimetres and less than 63 centimetres fork length requires an Atlantic salmon tag if it is retained. 32

35 Smallmouth Bass Open season May 1 October 15 Daily bag and possession limit May 1 June July 1 September September 16 October Minimum size limit cm (TL) Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits: The Meduxnekeag River and all tributaries (including the North Branch, Meduxnekeag River) from the railway bridge (grid reference , Woodstock Map 21 J/4) located approximately one kilometer above the confluence with Marven Brook, upstream to the international border with the State of Maine Closes to bass angling September 15 Tidal portion of the Saint John River, including tidal portion of all tributaries, from Crock s Point downstream to the Saint John Harbour Bridge, excluding the closed section from the Mactaquac Dam to a line drawn across the river from the mouth of Springhill Brook (Hartt Island Campground) to the western Fredericton city limit just past the junction of Clements Drive and Carlisle Road on the north side of the river Closes to bass angling November 30 Daily bag and possession limit, September 16 November Saint John River (Mactaquac Headpond) from the dam upstream to the highway bridge at Grafton excluding the Meduxnekeag River Closes to bass angling November 30 Daily bag and possession limit, September 16 November Trout Open season Rivers, brooks and streams April 15 September 15 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 1 September 15 Daily bag and possession limit Total of brook trout, brown trout, lake trout or rainbow trout 5* Minimum size (TL) Brook trout 10 cm Lake trout 45 cm Brown trout, rainbow trout 15 cm * No more than two lake trout and/or two brown trout Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits: Live release only waters: Kennebecasis River from the road bridge at McCully Station (grid reference ) upstream to the junction of Ketchums Brook, Albert County. Artificial lures and flies only April 15 June 30 Fly fishing only july 1 September 15 Palmer Brook from the Hammond River upstream to the Stock Farm Road (excluding the closed section beginning July 1) April 15 September 15 33

36 Meduxnekeag River Retention Exceptions Mouth to the junction of North and South Branches: Brook trout bag limit minimum length 25 cm (TL) Brown trout bag Limit minimum length 35 cm (TL) North and South Branches live release only Meduxnekeag River Gear Restrictions From the old bridge abutments located 160 meters upstream of the bridge crossing in Belleville to the junction of the North and South Branches Artificial lures and flies only North and South Branches Fly fishing only Non-Sport Fish Open Season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exceptions: The season for smelt ends on May 31. The season for whitefish ends on September 15. The season for striped bass ends on October 15 in inland waters. The season for striped bass is open year-round in tidal waters. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Muskellunge cm TL 170 cm TL Pickerel cm TL 100 cm TL Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A Striped bass 1 68 cm TL 150 cm TL White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL Sturgeon Open season January 1 May 31, July 1 December 31 Daily bag and possession limit No limit Minimum size limit cm (TL) No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. 34

37 Southwest Recreational Fishery Area Boundary description: All lakes, rivers, and streams draining into the Bay of Fundy westward from the Saint John harbour bridge to the international border between the Province of New Brunswick and the State of Maine. PLEASE NOTE CLOSED SEASON No open angling season exists for the following species: Atlantic salmon Fly Fishing Only Waters Excludes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Beginning Stretch St. Croix April 15 St. Croix River from the old Union Mills Bridge remnants upstream to the power house dam at Milltown. Waters Closed to Angling Water Stretch Closed St. Croix River From the N.B. Electric Power Corp. generating station (power dam) at Milltown, New Brunswick, upstream to the first train trestle crossing the St. Croix River between Canada and the United States, a distance of approximately 500 metres Year round Landlocked Salmon Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Maine Open Season Rivers: April 15 September 30 April 15 September 30 Lakes: May 1 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit 2 2 Minimum size limit (FL) 35 cm 35 cm Maximum size limit (FL) Less than 63 cm Less than 63 cm Any landlocked salmon equal to or greater than 48 centimetres and less than 63 centimetres fork length requires an Atlantic salmon tag if it is retained. Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits Grand Manan Island, all waters april 15 September 15 SMALLMOUTH BASS 35

38 Smallmouth Bass Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Maine Open Season May 1 October 15 April 15 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit May 1 June July 1 September September 16 October Minimum size limit (TL) 30 cm 25 cm April 15 June July 1 September Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits St. Croix River, from Grand Falls, downstream to the Milltown Bridge Live release October 1 October 31 Unbaited lures or flies only October 1 October 31 Diggity Stream, First Lake, Palfrey Lake and Spednic Lake Live release only Grand Manan Island open season April 15 October 15 Bag and possession limit April Grand Falls Flowage, daily bag and possession limit Trout Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Maine Open season Rivers, brooks and streams April 15 September 15 April 15 September 30 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 1 September 15 April 15 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit Total of: brook trout, brown trout, lake trout 5* 5* or rainbow trout Minimum size limit (TL) Brook trout 10 cm 15 cm Lake trout 45 cm 45 cm Brown trout, rainbow trout 15 cm 15 cm * No more than 2 lake trout and/or 2 brown trout. Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits: Grand Manan Island, all waters april 15 September 15 East Musquash Reservoir minimum size limit, brown trout cm (TL) East Grand Lake daily bag limit for lake trout LAKE TROUT 36

39 Non-Sport Fish Non-Boundary Waters Open Season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exceptions: The season for smelt ends on May 31. The season for whitefish ends on September 15 in non-boundary waters. Skiff Lake, including tributaries: closed to smelt fishing. East Grand Lake, including tributaries: closed to dip netting for smelt. Lake Utopia, including tributaries: closed to smelt fishing. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Pickerel cm TL 100 cm TL Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A Striped bass 1 68 cm TL 150 cm TL White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL Sturgeon Open season january 1 May 31 and July 1 December 31 Daily bag and possession limit No limit Minimum size limit cm (TL) Boundary Waters with Maine Open Season: The season for all non-sport fish ends on September 30 on boundary waters. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Smelt 200 N/A N/A White Perch cm (TL) N/A Whitefish 8 N/A N/A No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. 37

40 Upper Saint John Recreational Fishery Area Boundary description: All lakes, rivers, and streams of the Saint John River drainage, upstream from the Covered Bridge at Hartland. PLEASE NOTE CLOSED SEASON No open angling season exists for the following species: Atlantic salmon and Striped bass Fly Fishing Only Waters Excludes all tributaries unless otherwise noted River Beginning Stretch Aroostook July 1 Aroostook River from the railway bridge upstream to the Maine-N.B. border Little Tobique July 1 Little Tobique River (entire river) upstream to Nictau Lake Mamozekel July 1 Mamozekel River (entire river) Right Hand July 1 Right Hand Branch Tobique River [Campbell River] (entire river) Branch Tobique Saint John July 1 Saint John River from the Hartland covered bridge upstream to a point 0.8 kilometres downstream from the Beechwood dam, including the following tributaries: Stickney Brook from its junction with the Saint John River upstream to the highway bridge on Route 105 Whitemarsh Creek, from its junction with the Saint John River upstream to the Route 130 bridge Saint John July 1 Saint John River from the Brooks Bridge at Limestone to the dam at Grand Falls. Salmon July 1 Salmon River, Victoria County, from the junction of the Saint John River upstream to the junction with Sutherland Brook Serpentine July 1 Serpentine River from its junction with the Right Hand Branch, Tobique River upstream to the mouth of Salmon Hole Brook Waters Closed to Angling Water Stretch Closed Becaguimec Becaguimec Stream, upstream to Route 105 bridge After June 30 Stream Big Presque Isle Big Presque Isle, upstream to Route 103 bridge After June 30 Little Tobique Little Tobique, from its junction with the Tobique River upstream to the mouth of After June 30 Sisson Branch Monquart Stream Monquart Stream, upstream to Route 105 bridge After June 30 Muniac Stream Muniac Stream, from its confluence with the Saint John River upstream to a After June 30 line drawn across the river: N W to N W Right Hand Branch Right Hand Branch Tobique River from Mamozekel River upstream to the mouth of After May 31 Tobique River Tom Pole Brook Saint John River Saint John River, from Beechwood Dam downstream 0.8 kilometres Year round Saint John River Saint John River, from 50 metres downstream of the Upper Guisiguit Brook to 50 metres upstream of the Upper Guisiguit Brook After June 30 38

41 Water Stretch Closed Saint John River Saint John River, from a straight line drawn across the river 800 meters below the After June 30 mouth of Monquart Stream to a line drawn straight across the river 50 meters above the mouth of Monquart Stream (Community of Bath: N , W ). Saint John River Saint John River, from a straight line drawn across the river 500 meters below the After June 30 mouth of Shikatehawk Stream to a line drawn straight across the river 50 meters above the mouth of Shikatehawk Stream (Community of Bristol: N , W ). Saint John River Saint John River, from a straight line drawn across the river 500 meters below After June 30 the mouth of Big Presque Isle Stream to a line drawn straight across the river 50 meters above the mouth of Big Presque Isle Stream (N , W ). Saint John River Saint John River, from a straight line across the river 100m downstream of the After June 30 mouth of Muniac Stream to a straight line drawn across the river 100m upstream of the mouth of Muniac Stream (Muniac Stream: N W) Saint John River Saint John River, from the Covered Bridge at Hartland to a line drawn straight After June 30 across the river 50 meters above the mouth of Becaguimac Stream (Community of Hartland N , W ) Shikatehawk Shikatehawk Stream, upstream to Route 105 bridge After June 30 Stream Tobique River Tobique River, from a line drawn across the river 200 m downstream of Trout Brook After June 30 to a line drawn across the river 800 m upstream of the Route 385 bridge at Nictau (N , W to N , W ). Tobique River Tobique River, from a line drawn across the river 1.5 km downstream of the After June 30 Tobique River Power Dam to a line drawn across the river 0.5 km upstream of the Tobique River Power Dam. (N , W to N , W upstream to N , W to N , W ) Tributaries to Nictau Lake All brooks flowing into Nictau Lake Year round Boundary Waters with Quebec Anglers fishing Quebec portions of boundary waters require a Quebec licence and need to follow Quebec s regulations. Landlocked Salmon Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Maine Open season May 15 September 30 April 15 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit 2 2 Minimum size limit (FL) 35 cm 35 cm Maximum size limit (FL) Less than 63 cm Less than 63 cm Any landlocked salmon equal to or greater than 48 centimetres and less than 63 centimetres fork length requires an Atlantic salmon tag if it is retained. Exceptions to open season and/or size and bag limits: Nictau Lake: Bag limit Baker Lake: Open season May 15 September 15 Green River, Madawaska County: Minimum size limit cm (FL) Maximum size limit Less than 63 cm (FL) 39

42 Smallmouth Bass Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Maine Open season May 15 October 15 April 15 September 30 Daily bag and possession limit May 15 June July 1 September September 16 October Minimum size limit (TL) 30 cm 25 cm April 15 June July 1 September Exceptions to open season: Tobique Headpond May 1 October 15 Beechwood Headpond May 1 October 15 Trout Open Season Non-boundary waters Boundary waters between N.B. and Maine Rivers, brooks and streams May 1 September 15 April 15 September 30 Lakes, ponds and reservoirs May 15 September 15 April 15 September 30 Daily Bag and Possession Limit Rivers, brooks, and streams Lakes, ponds and reservoirs Total of: brook trout, brown 10* 5* 5* trout, lake trout or rainbow trout Minimum size limit (TL) Brook trout 10 cm 10 cm 15 cm Lake trout 45 cm 45 cm 45 cm Brown trout, rainbow trout 15 cm 15 cm 15 cm * No more than 2 lake trout and/or 2 brown trout. Exceptions to open season or size and bag limits All Rivers and Streams (not lakes) upstream from the falls at Grand Falls, excluding Boundary Waters: Open Season May 1 September 30 First Green Lake; Unique Lake: Open Season May 15 August 31 Roulston Lake: Open Season June 15 August 31 Brook trout daily bag and possession limit Nictau Lake, Restigouche County: Brook trout minimum length limit cm (TL) Brook trout daily bag limit

43 Non-Sport Fish Non-Boundary Waters Open Season: In non-tidal waters, these species may be angled only if a sport fish season is also open on the waters being fished (unless an exception is noted below). Please check the sport fish seasons in this RFA to determine if a season is open. Exception: The season for whitefish ends on September 15 in non-boundary waters. The season for smelt ends on May 31 Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Burbot cm TL 100 cm TL Eel cm N/A Gaspereau 20 N/A N/A Muskellunge cm TL 170 cm TL Pickerel cm TL 100 cm TL Shad 5 N/A N/A Smelt 60 N/A N/A White perch cm TL 50 cm TL Whitefish 8 10 cm TL 70 cm TL Yellow perch cm TL 50 cm TL Boundary Waters with Maine Open Season: The season for all non-sport fish ends on September 30 on boundary waters. Daily bag and possession, length limits Species Daily Quota Minimum Length Maximum Length Smelt 200 N/A N/A White Perch cm (TL) N/A Whitefish 8 N/A N/A No bag or length restrictions exist for any other non-sport fish found in this RFA. 41

44 Additional Information Questions about regulations? Contact the Department of Natural Resources at (506) or your nearest district office: Bathurst Edmundston Richibucto Campbellton Florenceville St. George Canterbury Fredericton Saint-Quentin Chipman Hampton Sussex Dieppe Miramichi Tracadie-Sheila Doaktown Plaster Rock Welsford Marine Species and Shellfish Questions? Angling for marine species and recreational harvesting of shellfish are regulated by the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans. For information on seasons, zones, bag limits, closures and other regulations, contact DFO at: Maritimes Region (RFAs 5, 6, 7, 8) Chief, Regulations: Gulf Region (RFAs 1, 2, 3, 4) Regulations office: or Mercury Contamination of Freshwater Fish Eating fish caught in New Brunswick s lakes or rivers could increase the level of mercury in your body. The following guidelines apply to the consumption of brook trout, lake trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth bass, perch, fresh water cusk (burbot), pickerel, striped bass and catfish, but exclude Atlantic salmon: 1. Women of child-bearing age and children under eight years of age should limit consumption of brook trout measuring less than 29 centimetres (12 inches) to one meal per month. Avoid consumption of all other species, including brook trout measuring 29 centimetres or more. Pregnant women should avoid consumption of all freshwater fish noted in this advisory. 2. For children eight years of age and older, male adults and women past childbearing age, there is no restriction on consuming brook trout under 29 centimetres. Consumption of brook trout measuring 29 centimetres and more should be limited to one meal per week. Consumption of all other New Brunswick freshwater fish listed above should be limited to one meal every two weeks. An occasional meal which exceeds the guidelines should have no adverse health effects. This advisory applies only to wild fish caught in the province s lakes and rivers. Fish from commercial trout ponds and aquaculture operations are considered safe to eat. For information on freshwater species: Public Health Services New Brunswick Department of Health, For information on commercial fish: Canadian Food Inspection Agency (New Brunswick),

45 Angling Ethics and Courtesy Ethical anglers are those who appreciate New Brunswick s natural culture and its history. They protect our natural resources. They fish in a responsible manner. They respect the rights of others and they handle their catch in a humane manner. Respect our fish as a valuable resource: Do not kill fish that you do not intend to use Learn proper handling techniques to ensure released fish survive If you have decided to keep a fish, kill it quickly. Treat fish in a humane manner, whether they are retained, released or used as bait. Ensure quality angling for future generations. Limit your catch, rather than catching your limit. Respect the environment and our aquatic habitat: Do not litter. If you brought it in, take it out. Leave the area cleaner than you found it. Respect other users and their property: Fishing should be an enjoyable experience for all. Don t spoil it for others. Cooperate with all resource users, including other anglers, swimmers and boaters. Respect private property and private water. Salmon Angling Courtesy Start upstream of others: Begin fishing upstream of anglers that are already fishing a pool or run. Don t crowd other anglers: Leave some space between you and the angler downstream so you don t affect their ability to cast and fish through the pool. Fish through the pool: Anglers should move downstream at a reasonable pace while fishing a pool or run to allow upstream or waiting anglers an opportunity to fish the water (applies for shore and boat anglers alike). Slow your boat: Reduce the wake from your boat by slowing down and taking a wide berth when passing anglers fishing from shore or in another boat. Don t anchor too close to wading anglers: Allow anglers that are fishing a pool from shore enough casting distance when arriving to fish a pool from a boat. Always yield to an angler who has a fish on the line: The angler below and above should reel in line and be prepared to give the angler fighting the fish room to play and land his/her catch. Give others a chance after you have landed a fish: An angler who lands a salmon or grilse should rotate to the beginning if they wish to continue fishing a pool or run. An angler who loses a fish may return to his/her place in line. 43

46 Set young salmon free It s the law! If you catch a salmon parr or smolt, gently remove the hook and release it back in the water. Study these pictures and note the differences between young Atlantic salmon and brook trout: Salmon Parr Black spots on back and sides Forked tail No markings on fins or tail Salmon Smolt Silvery fish Only a shadow of vertical side bars Black spots on upper sides and cheeks Dark forked tail Brook Trout Light coloured spots on its sides Red spots with light coloured edge Marbled pattern (dark irregular lines) on upper body and back Dorsal fin has dark bars and patches Lower fins have a white edge Tail is square or very slightly concave DFO Atlantic Salmon Assessment Program Tag Returns Each year, Atlantic salmon are captured as they enter Miramichi River, marked with individually numbered blue tags in front of the dorsal fin, and released. Upstream catches of marked and unmarked fish are used to estimate returns of salmon to the river. If you catch a tagged Atlantic salmon, please remove the tag and send it, along with the date and location of capture, to the address on the back of the tag (Fisheries and Oceans, PO Box 5030, Moncton, NB E1C 9B6). Be sure to include your name, address and phone number for contact purposes and to receive information on your fish. Anglers who return tags will have their names entered in the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organization (NASCO) tag return incentive draw. Each year, a Grand Prize of US$2,500 is awarded as well as a US$1,500 prize for the North American area. For more information, contact: Science Branch, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, PO 5030, Moncton NB E1C 9B6 Telephone: (506) or visit: 44

47 The Atlantic Salmon Conservation Foundation Conservation Highlights: New Brunswick The ASCF is a non-profit organization established through a one-time grant of $30 million from the Government of Canada. Income generated by this trust fund supports projects and activities contributing to conservation of wild Atlantic salmon and salmon habitat. Funds raised in partnership with Alcool NB Liquor (ANBL) through the Protect our Rivers program also provide significant support for New Brunswick projects. The Foundation helps achieve healthy and sustainable wild Atlantic salmon stocks in Atlantic Canada and Quebec through active working partnerships among volunteer conservation groups, Aboriginal organizations, governments, and others. Visit our website: Photo: Miramichi River Environmental Assessment Committee New Brunswick projects funded by the ASCF and ANBL in 2013 were led by: Canadian Rivers Institute: $5,000 Miramichi River Environmental Eel River Bar First Nation: $12,000 Assessment Committee: $10,000 Fort Folly First Nation: $20,000 Miramichi Salmon Association: $12,000 Hammond River Angling Nepisiguit Salmon Association: $12,000 Association: $10,000 Petitcodiac Watershed Alliance: $14,000 Kennebecasis Watershed Restoration Restigouche River Watershed Management Council: $12,770 Committee: $5,000 Village of Belledune: $5,000 Atlantic Salmon Conservation Foundation Conservation Highlights New Brunswick

48 New Brunswick Salmon Council Inc. (a regional council of the Atlantic Salmon Federation) and its local affiliates encourage everyone to practise conservation in all your 2014 angling activities. Here are a few suggestions on how you can individually contribute to the health and vitality of New Brunswick s prized wild Atlantic salmon stocks: Carefully read and be aware of all regulations that apply to the waters you will be angling. Remember to pinch your barbs the hook is much easier to remove, causing less injury to the fish and allowing quicker live release. Land your fish swiftly. (A good rule of thumb is 1-minute per pound for Atlantic salmon.) Gently handle your catch. If necessary, for a short time period before releasing it, keep the fish in the water facing upstream so that a flow of water passes over its gills. Report signs of poaching activities ( TIPS) or environmental concerns such as pollution including bank erosion, unnaturally silty water and sedimentation in streams or excessive stream bank vegetation removal. For environmental concerns call or (after hours or emergencies) Finally, to help NB rivers meet conservation targets, and to help with international negotiations aimed at conserving and increasing the stocks returning to our rivers, we encourage the live release of all salmon and grilse. Get involved Be part of the solution! Join one of our many affiliates shown below or start your own group on your rivier. We can help! Organization Contact Telephone Atlantic Salmon for Northern Maine Gary Giggey Big Salmon River Angling Association Paul Elson pelson@nbnet.nb.ca Club loisir de la rivière Caraquet Inc Yvon Cormier ycormier@hotmail.com Canaan River Fish & Game Association Reace Black rblack77@nb.sympatico.ca Club de chasse et pêche de Saint-Leonard Roland Michaud michaudr@nbnet.nb.ca Dieppe Fly-Tying Club Jacques Heroux jacques@salmosalar.info Fredericton Fish and Game John Pugh flytyer@rogers.com Fort Folly Habitat Recovery Tim Robinson timr@nb.sympatico.ca Hammond River Angling Association Sean Doyle info@hraa.ca Maliseet Nation Conservation Council Patricia Saulis psaulis2@yahoo.ca Management of Salmon on the Restigouche Donald Sullivan and Tributaries (MSRT/GSRT) kedgwicksalmonclub@hotmail.com Meduxnekeag River Association Stephen Wilson stepwil@nbnet.nb.ca Miramichi Headwaters Salmon Federation Judy Lutes heyjude@nbnet.nb.ca Miramichi Salmon Association Mark Hambrook mark@miramichisalmon.ca Moncton Fish and Game Association Ron Cybulski rcyed@aol.com Nashwaak Watershed Association Bill Gammon wgammon@nb.sympatico.ca NB Professional Outfitters & Guides Assoc. Paul Leahey pleahey@nb.aibn.com Nepisiguit Salmon Association Robert Baker nsa@nbnet.nb.ca New Brunswick Wildlife Federation Charlie Leblanc cleblan618@rogers.com Northumberland Salmon Protection Assoc Debbie Norton adventures@upperoxbow.com Oromocto Watershed Association Robin Hanson @oromoctowatershed.ca Petitcodiac Sportsman s Club Jim Marriner jmmarriner@rogers.com Restigouche River Watershed David LeBlanc Management Council restigouche@globetrotter.net St. John River Basin Salmon Recovery Inc. John Bagnall john.bagnall@amec.com Southeastern Anglers Association Don Alexander dkalex@xplornet.ca Salmon River Association Jason Soucy salmon_river_association@yahoo.ca Sussex Fish & Game Association Don Moffett moffetts@nb.aibn.com Tobique Salmon Protective Association Bob O'Donnell mer_od@msn.com 46

49 IF YOU ARE A SALMON ANGLER YOU ARE IMPORTANT LIVE RELEASE sends more Atlantic salmon on to their spawning beds, and increases their numbers. WATCH THE VIDEO! Brush up your Live Release techniques with ASF s How-To video. PREVENT POACHING As a conservation angler, your presence on rivers helps deter salmon poachers. SUPPORT RURAL NEW BRUNSWICK An indedendent study commissioned by ASF determined that the recreational salmon industry contributed $39.8M to NB s economy in 2010 LEARN MORE ABOUT WILD ATLANTIC SALMON The quarterly Atlantic Salmon Journal is a great way to do this. Check out the Issues at ATLANTIC SALMON FEDERATION 47

50 New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund List of projects approved in 2013 Restigouche River Watershed Management Council Inc. Atlantic Salmon Survey 2013 Restigouche River System...$11,000. Nepisiguit Salmon Association Nepisiguit Salmon Assessment & Enhancement...$9,000. Partenariat pour la gestion intégrée du bassin versant de la baie de Caraquet Bertrand Brook Fish Habitat Rehabilitation Phase VI...$8,000. Association des Bassins Versants de la Grande et Petite Rivière Tracadie Ecological Improvement of the Fish Habitat in the Trout Brook Phase I...$10,000. Comité de Gestion Environnementale de la Rivière Pokemouche Selective Cleanup of Spruce Brook...$8,000. Comité Sauvons Nos Rivières Neguac Inc. Salmonid Habitat Restoration in the Rivière des Caches (Phase III) and Evaluation of the North Burnt Church River (Phase II)...$10,000. White Rapid Brook & Other Stream Enhancement Association Stream Preservation...$12,000. Miramichi Salmon Association Juvenile Salmon Assessment on the Miramichi River $10,000. Miramichi Salmon Association Smolt Production on the Northwest Miramichi $14,000. Miramichi Salmon Association Tracking Salmon Kelts on the Miramichi River $6,775. Miramichi Watershed Management Committee Inc. Miramichi Salmon and Trout Restoration Stocking $16,000. Northumberland Salmon Protection Association Atlantic Salmon Smolt Production in the Little Southwest Miramichi River...$12,000. Southeastern Anglers Association Sedimentation from Non-designated Roads Chockpish, Bouctouche and Cocagne Rivers...$6,000. Southeastern Anglers Association Increasing Knowledge on Striped Bass Population in the Bouctouche and Cocagne Rivers...$7,000. Vision H20 (Groupe du bassin versant de la région de Cap- Pelé) Tedish River Salmonids Habitat Assessment...$7,700. Shediac Bay Watershed Association Salmonid Enhancement and Public Engagement Program...$10,000. Petitcodiac Watershed Alliance Population and Habitat Assessment of Striped Bass in the Petitcodiac River1...$20,000. Community Forests International Forestry, Farming and Waterways: Protecting and Restoring our Wild Lands...$5,000. Hammond River Angling Association Hammond River Atlantic Salmon Smolt Assessment...$8,000. Fort Folly First Nation Inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon Recovery on the Big Salmon River...$20,000. ACAP Saint John From Discharge to Recharge: The Ecological Influence of Wastewater Treatment on the Fish Communities of Marsh Creek: Year 2...$8,000. ACAP Saint John Ashburn Creek Barrier Removal...$3,325. Atlantic Salmon Federation Outer Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon Monitoring Program...$2,500. Miramichi Watershed Management Committee North Branch Miramichi Atlantic Salmon and Brook Trout Counting Fence...$10,000. Miramichi Watershed Management Committee Miramichi Lake Smallmouth Bass Containment and Eradication $20,000. Miramichi Headwaters Salmon Federation Inc. Satellite Rearing Facility Operation & Renovation Upgrade...$15,000. Société d aménagement de la rivière Madawaska et du lac Témiscouata Prevention and Monitoring of Invasive Species in the Madawaska Region...$9,000. Les Ami(e)s de la Kouchibouguacis Restoration of Salmon Populations in the Kouchibouguacis River...$8,000. Comité Sauvons nos Rivières Neguac Inc. Ecological Restoration of Salmonid Habitat of Indian Brook (Phase I)...$5,000. Kennebecasis Watershed Restoration Committee Restoring Aquatic Habitat along Trail Corridors: Phase II...$3,000. Kennebecasis Watershed Restoration Committee Shannon Brook Enhancement Project: Phase I...$5,000. Hammond River Angling Association Salmon Population Assessment...$5,000. Allen Curry, NB Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, CRI, UNB Movement and Habitat Use of the Endangered Striped Bass Morone saxatilis, in the Saint John River...$10,000. Oromocto Watershed Association Oromocto Alewife Management Study...$14,000. Huntsman Marine Science Centre Short and Long-term Impact of Rockweed Harvesting on the Intertidal Fish Community in Southwest NB...$10,000. Allen Curry, NB Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, CRI, UNB Occurrence and Population Status of the Redbreast Sunfish, Lepomis auritus, in NB...$6,500. Tobique Salmon Protective Association Inc. Tobique and Saint John River Wild Salmon Stabilization and Recovery...$6,500. Canaan River Fish & Game Association CRFGA Electrofishing Study...$5,000. Oromocto Watershed Association Inc. Oromocto Watershed Electrofising Assessment...$6,000. NB Wildlife Trust Fund Tel: PO Box Fax: Fredericton, NB wildcoun@nbnet.nb.ca Canada E3B 0H8 Web Site: 48

51 CROWN RESERVE WATERS New for 2014 Several changes are being implemented with respect to the Crown Reserve Angling program in These measures include: DNR Client Number: Crown Reserve anglers require a DNR Client Number when applying for or booking Crown Reserve angling opportunities. Refer below for additional information on how to obtain your client number. Introduction of a Crown Reserve online public portal system: Anglers will now be able to submit applications, book unclaimed stretch dates, and pay for Regular, Daily, and Live Release Crown Reserve angling licences from a public portal system located at the Department of Natural Resources web site. This online option will be offered in addition to the existing method of contacting a designated DNR office. Replacement of Regular Crown Reserve mini-draws with a booking system: The current Regular Crown Reserve mini-draw system, which consisted of a series of draws held on weekdays throughout the angling season, is being replaced by a first-come first-served booking system. Bag limit changes: Trout bag limits will change on some Daily Crown Reserve stretches (see page 55). Regular Crown Reserve stretch choices: Applicants to the Regular Crown Reserve draw will be able to submit up to 7 stretch date choices on their application form instead of the current limit of 5. Daily and Live Release Crown Reserve usage restrictions: Anglers will be able to angle two days per month on any specific stretch of Daily or Live Release water obtained through the draw rather than be limited to two days per month for all stretches. As before, there will be no restrictions in terms of how many times anglers may book unclaimed Daily or Live Release stretches not taken in the draw. Crown Reserve application fees: Crown Reserve anglers will now pay a single application fee of $7 plus HST per year instead of an application fee every time they submit an application to a Crown Reserve draw. Crown Reserve licence fees: Regular, Daily, and Live Release Crown Reserve licence fees will be reduced by 1/3 for licences issued for angling dates that occur between Sept. 1 and Sept. 15. Additional information on these changes to the Crown Reserve system is provided on the following pages. General Information Only people who reside year round in New Brunswick may apply to fish on Crown Reserve Waters. All Crown Reserve anglers require a DNR Client Number when applying for or booking Crown Reserve angling opportunities. If you angled on Crown Reserve in 2012 or 2013 you were mailed your DNR Client Number as part of a Crown Reserve information package sent to you by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in February You may also obtain your DNR Client Number from the following sources: fuelwood, tipping, and wood cutting permits (X permits) issued by DNR since 2009 any draw application receipts issued by DNR since 2010 Daily or Live Release Crown Reserve Licences issued in 2012 or 2013 Conservation Education certification cards issued since 2011 If you have never been issued a DNR Client Number or are unable to locate your number contact any DNR District office for assistance 49