Moncton, New Brunswick (NB) – May 17, 2024 – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) announces the Conservation Harvesting Plan (CHP) for the 2024 mackerel bait fishery in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence in Mackerel Fishing Area 16. The bait fishery (mackerel only) will open on May 27, 2024, at 4h00 ADT.
Eligible fish harvesters who wish to participate in this fishery must refer to Conditions of Licence that will be available on the National Online Licensing System.
The re-opened mackerel bait fishery provides an opportunity for increased data collection in addition to the existing mackerel sampling program based on S52 fishing licenses issued for scientific purposes. For more information, please refer to the following link: Call for interest: Voluntary length frequency reporting.
2024 Management Measures
First allocation
The first allocation for the mackerel bait fishery is set at 235 tonnes. The fishery will be closed by a Notice to Fish Harvesters if the allocation is reached.
Second Allocation
The second release of 235 tonnes is scheduled for August. More information on the specific timing of the August release will be provided at a later date.
Authorized species
Conditions of licence are only valid for mackerel.
Maximum daily limit
The maximum daily quantity of mackerel authorized to catch and retain is 454 kg in total.
Gear authorized
A maximum of 3 gillnets for a maximum total length of 50 fathoms with a minimum mesh size of 66.7 mm or a maximum of 36 hooks and a maximum of 6 lines.
Hail-out
A mandatory hail-out is required for all harvesters participating in the mackerel bait fishery.
Hail-in
A mandatory hail-in is required for all harvesters participating in the mackerel bait fishery. An accurate catch estimate must be provided before entering port.
Logbook
Harvesters must obtain the Herring and Mackerel logbook - Fixed gear from a prequalified supplier. The list of suppliers is available at the following link: Prequalified Logbook Suppliers.
Fishing restrictions
It is strictly forbidden to sell, trade or barter any species of fish caught under the authority of a bait licence.
Reporting Requirements
Harvesters must refer to the conditions of licence for reporting requirements for items such as:
- Species at Risk
- Marine mammal interaction
- Lost gear reporting
- Retrieved gear reporting