Groundfish Ice Fishing in the Saguenay

January 9 to March 12

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Regulation
During the ice fishing season, amateurs must comply with the regulations in force. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the mandate of which is to protect and conserve fishery resources, strictly enforces the Fisheries Act and is ever vigilant in its efforts to prevent poaching of marine resources.

Questions and Answers

For the 2010 season, is a licence required to engage in groundfish ice fishing?
No. Groundfish ice fishing is a winter recreational fishing that does not require a licence.

What are the most common groundfish species in the Saguenay?
Redfish, cod, Greenland halibut (turbot), Atlantic halibut, flounder and ocean pout

What is the daily allowable catch?
Each day, each person may catch and keep 5 groundfish, all species combined.

What happens if a fisher catches an Atlantic halibut, a Greenland shark, shellfish or crustaceans?
The fisher must release it immediately.

What fishing gear is allowed for ice fishing?
Baited hand-line, fishing rod, fishing reel and jigger. Traps are prohibited.

How many lines and hooks are allowed?
There is no limit on the number of lines and hooks.

Must the lines be monitored?
No, but leaving fishing gear unattended in the water for more than 72 hours is prohibited.

May ice fishing catches be dealt with at the time of the catch?
Yes, but having fish in your possession that has been dealt with to the point that it is difficult to identify the species and to determine the number of fish is prohibited. It is suggested that fishers leave the fillet whole with a piece of skin attached.

May groundfish ice fishing and subsistence fishing catches be sold?
No. Selling, trading, bartering, and offering to buy or sell ice fishing groundfish catches are prohibited.

Is the wasting of groundfish fit for human consumption allowed?
No. The regulations prohibit wasting groundfish that is suitable for human consumption.

Can offences lead to severe penalties?
Yes. The Fisheries Act provides for fines of up to $100,000.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada invites the public to report poachers by phoning 1-800-463-9057. Your call is confidential.

For more information:
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
North Shore Area
Sept-Îles: 418-962-6314 or 1-800-463-1729
Baie-Comeau District: 418-296-5949
www.qc.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/