Gulf Snow Crab Fishery Closed to Protect North Atlantic Right Whales
On July 20, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) announced the closure of Snow Crab Fishing Area 12 in the Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence.
This decision was made in an effort to protect North Atlantic Right whales from risks posed by snow crab fishing gear in the area.
As of July 20, 98 per cent of the total allowable catch for snow crab in Area 12 has already been harvested. “We understand the impact this could have on fishers. However, the recent whale mortalities in the area are unprec...
Crab Fishing Area 12 Season Extension
DFO advises that the Snow Crab season for Crab Fishing Area 12, in NAFO sub-Division(s) 4R3Pn, has been extended to July 14, 2015 at 2000hrs.
Fish harvesters are reminded to apply through the National Online Licencing System, if they are engaged in, and wish to continue a buddy-up arrangement.
DFO will continue to monitor soft-shell and implement the soft-shell protocol as required.
Herring Fixed Gear Fishery Open in Area 12 and 13
DFO advises that the Herring fishery for the fixed gear fleets (trap, gillnet, bar seine - including tuck seine), in Herring Fishing Area 12 (NAFO sub-Division 3Pn) and Herring Fishing Area 13 (Cape Ray to Cape St. Gregory), will open Wednesday, May 13, 2015.
Fish harvesters are reminded of the following:
The harvesting cap structure for Area 13 that has been in place for the number of seasons will continue for the 2014 season.
Fishing limitations are in effect while fishing inside Bay ...
