Research Document - 2011/139

Review of the retained catch of Atlantic salmon as a result of the introduction of the River Classification System in the 1996 IFMP for insular Newfoundland (SFA’s 3-14A)

By C.E. Bourgeois and G. Veinott

Abstract

The implementation of the River Classification System in Newfoundland and Labrador Region in 1999 and its impact on the retained recreational Atlantic salmon catch are examined. The period from 1988 to 2009, which includes eleven years prior to implementation and the eleven years post implementation, was examined to document the observed changes. The number of licenses issued during the two time series declined but there was no significant change in effort, defined as rod days. The average number of retained small salmon in the recreational fishery declined post implementation of the River Classification System by 5,736 fish. The biggest decline in retained catch occurred in the smaller watersheds with lower River Classification designations and lower retention limits. While the overall average number of retained salmon declined under the River Classification System, retention increased on Class I rivers where a season retention limit of six fish is permitted.

Complete document (PDF, 100 KB)

Accessibility Notice

This document is available in PDF format. If the document is not accessible to you, please contact the Secretariat to obtain another appropriate format, such as regular print, large print, Braille or audio version.