Dates are set for the 2020 recreational cod fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador.
According to a news release issued Thursday by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, 39 days have been set aside for residents and non-residents of the province. That number is identical to the number of days permitted in 2019 and 2018.
The fishery will open Saturday, July 4 and continued each week Saturday to Monday inclusive. After Monday, Sept. 7, the summer season will conclude. A nine-day fall season will then commence Saturday, Sept. 26, and end following Sunday, Oct. 4. Fishing will be permitted from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.
“The public is reminded to follow safe boating practices and be aware of local weather and sea conditions before leaving port,” the release stated.
As per usual, no licenses or tags will be required, and those taking part will be able to catch five fish per day. A boat with three or more people will only be able to catch 15 fish maximum. However, tour boat operators can apply for a license to increase that limit.
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, DFO is advising those taking part in the fishery to comply with public health advice.
Fishing will be permitted in all Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization areas and subareas surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador, excluding the Eastport, Gilbert Bay and Laurentian Channel Marine Protected Areas.
Provisions continue for disabled and visually impaired people to designate someone to catch fish of their behalf. Information on that service will be available through the DFO Client Service Centres and online.
DFO is also asking the public to keep an eye out for pink or yellow tags. The uniquely numbered tags should list a DFO address where they can be returned, with the reward for their return ranging from $10 to $100. Those returning tags are asked to include the location and date of capture, as well as their mailing address.
