Hearn announces the 2008 northern cod stewardship fishery for N.L.

Fisheries and Oceans Minister Loyola Hearn announced Monday the details of the 2008 northern cod stewardship fishery and the recreational groundfish fishery for Newfoundland and Labrador.

“While there is still a long way to go, our scientific assessment indicates there has been a slight upward trend in abundance and improved survival for the northern cod stock over recent years. However, there are also serious concerns about upcoming recruitment prospects in both the inshore and offshore areas. We must continue to move forward with caution,” stated Hearn.

The 2008 northern cod stewardship fishery individual quota (IQ) level will be increased by 750 pounds to 3,250 pounds per licence holder.

“This current IQ level represents a 30 per cent increase per licence holder from 2007,” said Hearn. “I have carefully considered both the research of our scientists and the vital information we get from harvesters who have been on the water participating in this fishery for the past two years.”

DFO and industry agree that clear management measures are required to encourage the continued rebuilding of this stock. These measures include shortened seasons, gear restrictions and small fish protocols. DFO will consult with fish harvesters on selecting either a two-week summer season or a four-week fall season to catch their IQ. There will be no harvesting in August when the water is warmest and quality is low.

“Our commitment to scientific research, necessary conservation measures and co-operative efforts with the fishing industry to work to rebuild the northern cod stock will underpin our efforts in this and coming years,” said Hearn.

“Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have made it clear how important a recreational fishery is to them. Compliance in this fishery over the last two years has been good and I am pleased to announce a recreational groundfish fishery for all inshore waters around Newfoundland and Labrador again in 2008,” Hearn said. “I look forward to having people from clear across the province take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy some time on the water.”

The recreational groundfish fishery will be open in NAFO Divisions 2J3KL, 4R3Pn and 3Ps for three weeks in the summer from July 23 to Aug. 12 and for one week in the fall from Sept. 27 to Oct. 5. As in previous years there will be a daily bag limit of five fish, and a boat limit of 15 fish when three or more people are fishing. Increased monitoring and a post-season survey will be undertaken to improve the accuracy of catch information. The fishery will include a 10t food, social and ceremonial (FSC) allocation for the Labrador Metis Nation and Innu.

There will be no tag or licence requirements this year and DFO is working to design an Atlantic-wide marine recreational licensing program that will provide additional information on harvest and participation rates.