Extension of Saguenay Fjord Winter Recreational Groundfish Fishery

February 4, 2021                                   

Québec, Quebec – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) announced today that the groundfish ice fishing season on the Saguenay Fjord has been extended by one week. It now ends on March 14, 2021.

The Canadian Coast Guard will begin its spring icebreaking operations on the Saguenay River at daybreak on Monday, March 15, 2021 rather than Monday, March 8. This one-week extension is a result of the exceptional weather conditions this year and does not mean a change in future seasons. Also, all equipment on the ice will have to be brought back to shore before the start of icebreaking operations.

Reminder

Each person is allowed to catch and keep a maximum of five groundfish per day of any type, except Atlantic Halibut, Atlantic Wolffish, Northern Wolffish, Spotted Wolffish and Skate. Fish harvesters are required to release these species immediately and in a manner that causes the least amount of harm to the fish.

For the safety of those participating in ice fishing, DFO emphasizes that access to fishing sites is conditional on ice thickness and in accordance with municipal regulations.

Please note that Canadian Coast Guard spring icebreaking operations on the Saguenay River will begin at daybreak on Monday, March 15, 2021. The Coast Guard strongly recommends that all hikers, fish harvesters and snowmobilers leave the ice during icebreaking activities, as shifting ice may create a danger for anyone in the area.

In order to limit the risk of spreading COVID-19, all fish harvesters are asked to respect the public health measures implemented by the various levels of government. The rules in force for recreational fisheries could be modified in order to ensure compliance with government directives related to COVID-19.

For more information on groundfish ice fishing, visit www.qc.dfo-mpo.gc.ca.