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BC tidal area 18 Saltspring, Pender, Mayne and Saturna Islands, and Saanich Peninsula: Recreational fishing limits, openings and closures

You’re responsible for understanding the regulations and restrictions that may affect an open fishery.

How to follow the rules:

  1. Check the Area map. You need to know the location (subarea) where you plan to fish.
  2. Check the species regulations tables for fishing opportunities and basic regulations.
  3. Check the restrictions tables for special exceptions and more detailed regulations. Make sure you know the:
    • (d) Daily limit: The maximum number of a given fish species that a person is allowed to keep in one day.
    • (p) Possession limit: The maximum number of fish you can have in your possession at any given time, except for what is at your ordinary residence.
    • (a) Annual limit: The total amount of fish of a certain species that may be caught and retained during the course of a fishing year which commences on April 1 and ends the following March 31.
  4. Get to know the locations of protected areas. Permanent fishing restrictions are in effect in these areas to protect fish and fish habitat.
  5. Unless otherwise specified, fishing opportunities end at 23:59 hrs on the close-date shown.

Helpful resources:

Area map

Area maps

For a written description of Areas please see the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations 2007.

Area 18: Download a printable PDF version of this map.

Management area 18
Salmon

Salmon

Species regulations

Always check for restrictions.

Species Areas Min Size Gear Limits
(d/p/a)		 Status
Chinook Salmon 18-1 to 18-5,18-11 62cm Barbless Hook & Line 2/4/10 Open (See Restrictions)
Chum Salmon 18 Barbless Hook & Line 0/0/- Non-retention until Dec 31 (See Restrictions)
Coho Salmon (Hatchery) 18 30cm Barbless Hook & Line 2/4/- Open until Dec 31 (See Restrictions)
Coho Salmon (Wild) 18 Barbless Hook & Line 0/0/- Non-retention (See Restrictions)
Pink Salmon 18 30cm Barbless Hook & Line 4/8/- Open (See Restrictions)
Sockeye Salmon 18 Barbless Hook & Line 0/0/- Non-retention (See Restrictions)


2021-11-01 05:50:10

Restrictions

Always check for protected areas.

Species Areas Measure Type Measure Value
Finfish Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Salmon Coastwide Possession Limit Pieces 8 - The possession limit for all salmon from all waters is twice the daily limit. You cannot possess more than eight salmon in total, except for salmon that are at your ordinary residence.
Coastwide Combined Daily Limit Pieces 4 - The daily limit for all species of Pacific salmon from tidal and fresh waters combined is 4. Individual species limits also apply.
Fulford Harbour Gear Restriction Single-Pointed Barbless Hook Only a single-pointed barbless hook may be used
Chinook Salmon Coastwide Reminder Keeping your chinook salmon? - You must permanently record all retained catch on your Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence. If mobile internet access is immediately available, the licence holder may alternatively record catch immediately in their National Recreational Licensing System (NRLS) account.
Coastwide Annual Limit Pieces 10 - The coastwide total annual limit for chinook salmon is 10 from all tidal waters that are open to chinook retention.
Coho Salmon (Hatchery & Wild Combined) 18 Combined Daily Limit Pieces 2 - The combined daily limit for Coho is two (Hatchery & Wild) unless otherwise specified; individual limits and subarea closures also apply.
18-8 Daily Limit Pieces 2 - Two (2) Coho per day, only one (1) of which may be wild (unmarked).
Coho Salmon (Hatchery) Coastwide Reminder Hatchery coho (marked): Coho salmon with a healed scar in place of the adipose fin.

Area Descriptions

Area Map Area Description
Fulford Harbour Fulford Harbour inside or NW of a line between a fishing boundary sign located near the navigation light and Jackson Rock on the north shore of Fulford Harbour across the Harbour to a boundary sign on the opposite shore.
Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Pender_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf That portion of Subarea 18-4 west of Pender Island inside a line commencing at a point at 48°44.167’N and 123°13.917’W [Southeast Boundary (Wallace Point)] westerly to a point in water located at 48°44.153’N and 123°15.517’W [Southwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northwesterly to a point in water at 48°45.817’N and 123°19.300’W [Northwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northeasterly to point at 48°46.217’N 123°18.867’W [Northeast Boundary (South of Thieves Bay)], and thence southeasterly back to the point of commencement.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Saturna_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf Those portions of Subareas 18-5 and 18-11 off Saturna Island inside a line commencing on the shoreline of Saturna Island at 48°47.150’ north latitude and 123°02.733’ west longitude [North Boundary East Point], then northwesterly to a point in water at 48°47.367' north latitude and 123°02.915' west longitude [Thumbo Channel], thence northeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.617’ north latitude and 123°02.483’ west longitude [Northwest Corner (East of Thumbo Point)], thence southeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.473’ north latitude and 123°01.975 west longitude [Northeast Corner (Boiling Reef)], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.558’ north latitude and 123°03.147’ west longitude [Boundary Pass], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.333’ north latitude and 123°03.805’ west longitude [Southeast Corner], thence westerly to a point in water at 48°46.350’ north latitude and 123°05.150’ west longitude [Southwest Corner (Narvaez Bay)], thence due north to a point in water at 48°46.683’N and 123°05.150’W [Fiddler’s Cove], and thence northeasterly along the shoreline back to the point of commencement.


2021-11-01 11:15:04

Other finfish

Other finfish

Species regulations

Always check for restrictions.

Species Areas Min Size Gear Limits
(d/p/a)		 Status
Herring 18 Cast Net, Dip Net, Herring Jig, Herring Rake 20kg/40kg/- Open (See Restrictions)
Albacore Tuna 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 20/40/- Open (See Restrictions)
Eulachon 18 0/0/0 Closed
Mackerel 18 Cast Net, Dip Net, Herring Jig, Hook and Line 100/200/- Open (See Restrictions)
Northern Anchovy 18 Cast Net, Dip Net, Herring Jig, Herring Rake 20kg/40kg/- Open (See Restrictions)
Other Finfish species 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 20/40/- Open (See Restrictions)
Pacific Sand Lance 18 Cast Net, Dip Net, Herring Jig, Herring Rake 5kg/10kg/- Open (See Restrictions)
Pacific Sardine 18 Cast Net, Dip Net, Herring Jig, Herring Rake 100/200/- Open (See Restrictions)
Surf Smelt 18 Dip Net, Gill Net 20kg/40kg/- Open (See Restrictions)
Tuna, All other species 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 20/40/- Open (See Restrictions)
All other shark species 18 Hook and Line 0/0/0 Non-retention (See Restrictions)
Bocaccio Rockfish 18 0/0/0 Closed
Codfish 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 8/16/- Open (See Restrictions)
Greenling 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 3/6/- Open (See Restrictions)
Halibut 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 3/-/10 Open (See Restrictions)
Lingcod 18 0/0/0 Closed
Perch 18 Hook and Line 8/16/- Open (See Restrictions)
Rockfish, All Species Combined 18 0/0/0 Closed
Sablefish 18 Hook and Line 4/8/- Open (See Restrictions)
Salmon Shark 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 1/2/- Open (See Restrictions)
Sculpin 18 Hook and Line 8/16/- Open (See Restrictions)
Shark including Basking, Tope, Bluntnose, Sixgill, Blue, Brown Cat and Great White 18 0/0/0 Closed
Skate 18 Hook and Line 1/2/- Open (See Restrictions)
Sole/Flounder 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 8/16/- Open (See Restrictions)
Spiny Dogfish 18 Hook and Line, Spear Fishing while diving 4/8/- Open (See Restrictions)
Sturgeon 18 Hook and Line 0/0/0 Non-retention (See Restrictions)
Trout (Hatchery) 18 30cm Hook and Line 2/4/- Open (See Restrictions)
Trout (Wild) 18 0/0/- Non-retention (See Restrictions)
Wolf Eel 18 Hook and Line 0/0/0 Non-retention (See Restrictions)
Yelloweye Rockfish 18 0/0/0 Closed


2021-11-01 05:50:04

Restrictions

Always check for protected areas.

Species Areas Measure Type Measure Value
Finfish Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Herring 18 Reminder Harvesting of herring roe from marine plants or plants placed in the water for the purpose of harvesting herring roe is prohibited.
Eulachon Coastwide Closed Due to conservation concerns the harvesting of eulachon is prohibited.
Codfish 18 Reminder Species includes: Pacific cod, Pacific tomcod, pollock and hake but does not include lingcod.
Halibut Coastwide Annual Limit Pieces 10 - The annual limit is ten (10) halibut per licence holder per licence year, as set out on the BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence. All halibut retained by the licence holder shall be immediately recorded on the BC Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Licence; if mobile internet access is immediately available, the licence holder may alternatively record catch immediately in their National Recreational Licensing System (NRLS) account.
Coastwide Season Planning Halibut: The recreational halibut fishery continued on April 1, 2021 under the 2021/22 Conditions of Licence, and is expected to close on December 31 2021. For more details please see fishery notice FN0910. Subject to the border being open, non-residents of Canada wishing to fish and retain halibut in Areas 121, 23 and 123, must obtain their licence from a licence vendor in Canada - view: http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/licence-permis/iap-fai-eng.html; that is, a licence purchased directly over the internet by a non-resident is not valid for halibut fishing in these areas.
Coastwide Possession Limit Pieces 3 - No person shall catch and retain more than ten (10) halibut in the aggregate from April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022. No person shall retain a halibut greater than 133 cm head-on length. If the Daily Limit is one (1) or two (2), the Possession Limit is EITHER of: one (1) halibut measuring from 90 cm to 133 cm head-on length - OR - two (2) halibut measuring under 90 cm head-on length. If the Daily Limit is three (3), the Possession Limit is EITHER of: one (1) halibut measuring from 90 cm to 133 cm head-on length – OR - three (3) halibut measuring under 90 cm head-on length. Notes: (1) The Daily Limit is published in the BC Sport Fishing Guide (link above); (2) Head-off measurement equivalent for 133 cm is 102 cm, for 90 cm is 69 cm; (3) Head-off measurements are made from the base of the pectoral fin at its most forward point to the extreme end of the middle of the tail.
Lingcod Coastwide Season Planning See Rockfish Season Planning
18 Reminder Lingcod: Fillets, including the tail, must meet the minimum "head off" size limit of 53 cm. (21 in.)
Perch 18 Reminder Includes kelp, shiner and pile perch, and all species of surf and sea perch
Rockfish, All Species Combined Coastwide Reminder Rockfish - Anglers in vessels shall immediately return all rockfish that are not being retained to the water and to a similar depth from which they were caught by use of an inverted weighted barbless hook or other purpose-built descender device
Coastwide Season Planning Note - For planning purposes only - for in-season requirements, please see current regulations/restrictions for specific areas, gear and individual species limits, and closures/exceptions. INSIDE WATERS - Generally open May 1 to September 30, for Areas 13 to 19 and Subareas 12-1 to 12-13, 12-15 to 12-48, 20-5 to 20-7 and 29-5. Closed year round - Area 28 and Subareas 29-1 to 29-4 and 29-6 to 29-17. OUTSIDE WATERS - Generally Open April 1 to November 15, for Areas 1 to 10, 101 to 110, 130, 142, 11, 21 to 27, 111, 123 to 127, Subareas 12-14 and 20-1 to 20-4, and Area 121 (portion).
Sculpin Coastwide Reminder Cabezon is a species of sculpin; for daily and possession limits, please see the species regulations table above for sculpin
Trout (Hatchery & Wild Combined) Coastwide Reminder Note (1) Trout - means Brook trout, Brown trout, Cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, Lake trout, Rainbow trout, Steelhead, and includes Bull trout. (2) Steelhead - in waters where anadromous Rainbow trout are found, Steelhead means a Rainbow trout that is greater than 50cm in overall length. (3) Anadromous means migrating from the sea up rivers or streams to spawn.
18 Combined Daily Limit Pieces 2 The aggregate recreational daily limit for wild and hatchery trout combined is two (2).

Area Descriptions

Area Map Area Description
Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Pender_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf That portion of Subarea 18-4 west of Pender Island inside a line commencing at a point at 48°44.167’N and 123°13.917’W [Southeast Boundary (Wallace Point)] westerly to a point in water located at 48°44.153’N and 123°15.517’W [Southwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northwesterly to a point in water at 48°45.817’N and 123°19.300’W [Northwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northeasterly to point at 48°46.217’N 123°18.867’W [Northeast Boundary (South of Thieves Bay)], and thence southeasterly back to the point of commencement.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Saturna_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf Those portions of Subareas 18-5 and 18-11 off Saturna Island inside a line commencing on the shoreline of Saturna Island at 48°47.150’ north latitude and 123°02.733’ west longitude [North Boundary East Point], then northwesterly to a point in water at 48°47.367' north latitude and 123°02.915' west longitude [Thumbo Channel], thence northeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.617’ north latitude and 123°02.483’ west longitude [Northwest Corner (East of Thumbo Point)], thence southeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.473’ north latitude and 123°01.975 west longitude [Northeast Corner (Boiling Reef)], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.558’ north latitude and 123°03.147’ west longitude [Boundary Pass], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.333’ north latitude and 123°03.805’ west longitude [Southeast Corner], thence westerly to a point in water at 48°46.350’ north latitude and 123°05.150’ west longitude [Southwest Corner (Narvaez Bay)], thence due north to a point in water at 48°46.683’N and 123°05.150’W [Fiddler’s Cove], and thence northeasterly along the shoreline back to the point of commencement.


2021-11-01 05:50:05

Bivalve shellfish

Bivalve shellfish and snails

Eating contaminated shellfish can be life threatening. Closures change frequently throughout the year. It is illegal to harvest shellfish from closed or contaminated areas.

Bivalve shellfish have 2 hinged shells. Because they feed by filtering microscopic plankton from the water, changes in water quality can cause unsafe marine biotoxins, bacteria, or viruses to build up in their tissue. Snails can also accumulate toxins and pollutants. Learn more about shellfish harvesting.

How to follow the rules

  1. Check for contamination in the subarea where you plan to harvest.
  2. If no contamination closures are in effect, check species regulations and additional harvest restrictions.

  3. Questions? Contact us at 250-756-7192 or DFO.PAC.CSSP-PCAM.PAC.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Bivalve shellfish contamination closures

Subarea Marine biotoxin update (open bivalve species) Sanitary contamination closures (closed to shellfish harvesting)
18-1 Closed to All Bivalve Species
18-2 Littleneck Clam;Manila Clam;Mussels;Oysters
18-3 Littleneck Clam;Manila Clam;Mussels;Oysters
18-4 Closed to All Bivalve Species
18-5 Closed to All Bivalve Species
18-6 Closed to All Bivalve Species
18-7 Littleneck Clam;Manila Clam;Mussels;Oysters
18-8 Closed to All Bivalve Species
18-9 Closed to All Bivalve Species
18-10 Closed to All Bivalve Species
18-11 Closed to All Bivalve Species


2021-11-15 10:55:36

Species regulations

Always check for restrictions.

Species Areas Gear Limits
(d/p/a)
Blue Mussel 18 Hand Picking 75/150/-
Butter Clam 18 Hand Digging 20/40/-
California Mussel 18 Hand Picking 25/50/-
Cockles 18 Hand Digging 25/50/-
Geoduck 18 Hand Digging, Hand Picking 3/6/-
Horse Clam 18 Hand Digging 6/12/-
Littleneck Clam 18 Hand Digging 60/120/-
Manila Clam 18 Hand Digging 60/120/-
Moon Snail 18 Hand Picking 2/4/-
Olympia Oyster 18 0/0/0
Other Snail 18 Hand Picking 75/150/-
Pacific Oyster 18 Hand Picking 12/24/-
Pink And Spiny Scallop 18 Diving, Hand Picking 75/150/-
Razor Clam 18 Hand Digging 12/24/-
Rock Scallop 18 Diving, Hand Picking 6/12/-
Softshell Clam 18 Hand Digging 25/50/-
Varnish Clam 18 Hand Digging 60/120/-
Weathervane Scallop 18 Diving, Hand Picking 6/12/-


2021-06-01 10:15:15

Restrictions

Always check for protected areas.

Species Areas Measure Type Measure Value
Shellfish Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Bivalve Species Coastwide Reminder Because of the risk of contamination, you are not allowed to harvest bivalve shellfish (for any purpose) within: (1) 300 metres around industrial, municipal and sewage treatment plant outfall discharges (2) 125 metres around a marina, ferry wharf, floating living accommodation, or any finfish net pen (exceptions described as follows) (3) 25 meters around any floating living accommodation facility located within a shellfish aquaculture tenure where a zero-discharge and appropriate waste management plan is a condition of the Aquaculture Licence and is approved by the Regional Interdepartmental Committee (4) 0 meters of any finfish net pen within an aquaculture tenure where an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture Management Plan approved by the Regional Interdepartmental Committee is in operation.
Coastwide Reminder Clams: No person shall retain a Manila Clam or Littleneck Clam smaller than 35 mm, nor a Butter Clam smaller than 55 mm.
Clams Coastwide Daily Limit Pieces 60 - When open, all species aggregate daily limit combined Areas 1 to 27 is 60, except Pacific Rim National Park where the all species aggregate limit is 24.
18 Gear Restriction It is illegal to use any mechanical apparatus or dredge for harvesting clams.
Reminder Clam harvesters are encouraged to fill in holes to reduce predation on exposed juvenile clams.
Mussels 18 Reminder Combined daily limit for all mussel species is 75.
Pacific Oyster Coastwide Reminder To avoid inadvertently harvesting Olympia oysters while you are harvesting Pacific oysters, do not harvest any oyster less than 5 cm in diameter.
18 Packaging and Transporting Avoid transfer of green crab - Harvesters are encouraged to shuck oysters on the beach and leave the shells there, or return oyster shells to the beach from where you collected them whenever possible. In order to avoid the transfer of European green crab, please dispose of any oyster shell harvested from the west coast of Vancouver Island back to the beach from where it came or with your household garbage. Consult your local DFO Office. You will need permission to harvest oysters from marked oyster farms.
Moon Snail 18 Reminder Moon snails may be subject to PSP, check for closures. Consult your local DFO office for details.

Area Descriptions

Area Map Area Description
Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Pender_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf That portion of Subarea 18-4 west of Pender Island inside a line commencing at a point at 48°44.167’N and 123°13.917’W [Southeast Boundary (Wallace Point)] westerly to a point in water located at 48°44.153’N and 123°15.517’W [Southwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northwesterly to a point in water at 48°45.817’N and 123°19.300’W [Northwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northeasterly to point at 48°46.217’N 123°18.867’W [Northeast Boundary (South of Thieves Bay)], and thence southeasterly back to the point of commencement.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Saturna_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf Those portions of Subareas 18-5 and 18-11 off Saturna Island inside a line commencing on the shoreline of Saturna Island at 48°47.150’ north latitude and 123°02.733’ west longitude [North Boundary East Point], then northwesterly to a point in water at 48°47.367' north latitude and 123°02.915' west longitude [Thumbo Channel], thence northeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.617’ north latitude and 123°02.483’ west longitude [Northwest Corner (East of Thumbo Point)], thence southeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.473’ north latitude and 123°01.975 west longitude [Northeast Corner (Boiling Reef)], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.558’ north latitude and 123°03.147’ west longitude [Boundary Pass], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.333’ north latitude and 123°03.805’ west longitude [Southeast Corner], thence westerly to a point in water at 48°46.350’ north latitude and 123°05.150’ west longitude [Southwest Corner (Narvaez Bay)], thence due north to a point in water at 48°46.683’N and 123°05.150’W [Fiddler’s Cove], and thence northeasterly along the shoreline back to the point of commencement.


2021-06-01 10:15:36

Crab

Crab

Learn more about fishing for crab

Species regulations

Always check for restrictions.

Species Areas Min Size Gear Limits
(d/p/a)		 Status
Box And Puget Sound King Crab 18 Dip Net, Hand Picking, Ring Net, Traps (Crab) 1/2/- Open (See Restrictions)
Dungeness Crab 18 165mm Dip Net, Hand Picking, Ring Net, Traps (Crab) 4/8/- Open (See Restrictions)
King Crab 18 0/0/0 Closed
Other Crab 18 Dip Net, Hand Picking, Ring Net, Traps (Crab) 4/8/- Open (See Restrictions)
Red Rock Crab 18 115mm Dip Net, Hand Picking, Ring Net, Traps (Crab) 4/8/- Open (See Restrictions)
Shore Crab 18 Dip Net, Hand Picking, Ring Net, Traps (Crab) 75/150/- Open (See Restrictions)


2021-11-09 13:35:29

Restrictions

Always check for protected areas.

Species Areas Measure Type Measure Value
Shellfish Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Crab Coastwide Gear Restriction Rot Cord - All crab traps must have a section in the top or sidewall that has been secured by a single length of untreated cotton twine no greater than No. 120 (approximately 5 mm or 3/16 inch diameter). This twine is often referred to as rot cord. On deterioration this must produce a rectangular opening with a minimum size of 7 cm x 20 cm, or a square opening with a minimum size of 11 cm x 11 cm. This regulation is intended to ensure that if the trap is lost, the section secured by the cord will rot, allowing captive crabs to escape, and preventing the trap from continuing to fish. On traps with a rigid frame and a freely opening hinged lid the trap lid must be secured by a single length of untreated cotton twine no greater than No. 120 so that the trap lid will open freely when the rot cord is broken. No other fastenings may impede the hinged lid of the trap from opening.
Coastwide Gear Restriction Crab traps are required to have two unobstructed circular escape holes or rings, measuring a minimum of 105 mm in diameter
Coastwide Gear Restriction Gear Permitted Maximum of 2 ring nets, dip nets or traps or combination of these per fisher. Ensure gear is properly marked. Hand picking is permitted including by diving. No sharp-pointed instruments are permitted for harvesting crab. It is illegal to use snares in catching or attempting to catch crabs.
Reminder Keep navigation channels clear of buoys and lines. Any fishing gear that interferes with safe navigation can be removed under the Navigation Protection Act.
Crab 18 Reminder Combined daily limit for Dungeness crab, red rock crab, box crab, Puget Sound king crab and all other king crab is 4.
18 Time of Day Restrictions Daylight Hours - It is illegal to set or haul crab traps from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise; overnight soaking of traps is allowed.
Burgoyne Bay Dioxin Contamination (g/w) Consumption of crab hepatopancreas should not exceed 125g/week
Maple Bay Dioxin Contamination (g/w) Consumption of crab hepatopancreas should not exceed 125g/week
King Crab Coastwide Sex Restriction As per the Conditions of Licence, it is prohibited to possess female King crab
Coastwide Packaging and Transporting In order to be accurately measured, the carapace of King crab that you catch must remain attached until the crab arrives at your residence or it is consumed.
Dungeness Crab Coastwide Packaging and Transporting In order to be accurately measured, the carapace of Dungeness crab that you catch must remain attached until the crab arrives at your residence or it is consumed.
Sex Restriction It is prohibited to possess female Dungeness crab
Red Rock Crab Coastwide Packaging and Transporting In order to be accurately measured, the carapace of Red Rock crab that you catch must remain attached until the crab arrives at your residence or it is consumed.
Sex Restriction It is prohibited to possess female Red Rock crab

Area Descriptions

Area Map Area Description
Burgoyne Bay Burgoyne Bay, Saltspring Island
Maple Bay Maple_Bay.png Maple Bay
Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Pender_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf That portion of Subarea 18-4 west of Pender Island inside a line commencing at a point at 48°44.167’N and 123°13.917’W [Southeast Boundary (Wallace Point)] westerly to a point in water located at 48°44.153’N and 123°15.517’W [Southwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northwesterly to a point in water at 48°45.817’N and 123°19.300’W [Northwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northeasterly to point at 48°46.217’N 123°18.867’W [Northeast Boundary (South of Thieves Bay)], and thence southeasterly back to the point of commencement.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Saturna_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf Those portions of Subareas 18-5 and 18-11 off Saturna Island inside a line commencing on the shoreline of Saturna Island at 48°47.150’ north latitude and 123°02.733’ west longitude [North Boundary East Point], then northwesterly to a point in water at 48°47.367' north latitude and 123°02.915' west longitude [Thumbo Channel], thence northeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.617’ north latitude and 123°02.483’ west longitude [Northwest Corner (East of Thumbo Point)], thence southeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.473’ north latitude and 123°01.975 west longitude [Northeast Corner (Boiling Reef)], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.558’ north latitude and 123°03.147’ west longitude [Boundary Pass], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.333’ north latitude and 123°03.805’ west longitude [Southeast Corner], thence westerly to a point in water at 48°46.350’ north latitude and 123°05.150’ west longitude [Southwest Corner (Narvaez Bay)], thence due north to a point in water at 48°46.683’N and 123°05.150’W [Fiddler’s Cove], and thence northeasterly along the shoreline back to the point of commencement.


2021-11-09 13:36:33

Other invertebrates

Other invertebrates

Species regulations

Always check for restrictions.

Species Areas Gear Limits
(d/p/a)		 Status
Abalone 18 0/0/0 Closed
Ghost Shrimp 18 Hand Digging, Hand Pump 50/100/- Open (See Restrictions)
Giant Barnacles 18 Hand Picking 6/12/- Open (See Restrictions)
Goose Barnacles 18 Hand Picking 2kg/4kg/- Open (See Restrictions)
Limpet 18 Hand Picking 75/150/- Open (See Restrictions)
Octopus 18 Diving, Hand Picking, Hook and Line, Traps (Crab) 1/2/- Open (See Restrictions)
Opal Squid 18 Cast Net, Jigging 200/400/- Open (See Restrictions)
Other Shellfish species 18 20/40/- Open (See Restrictions)
Sand Dollar 18 Hand Picking 6/12/- Open (See Restrictions)
Sea Cucumber 18 Diving, Hand Picking 12/24/- Open (See Restrictions)
Sea Urchin 18 Diving, Hand Picking 12/24/- Open (See Restrictions)
Shrimp/Prawn 18 Ring Net, Spear, Trap (Other species of Shellfish) 125/250/- Open (See Restrictions)
Squid, All other species 18 Cast Net, Jigging 20/40/- Open (See Restrictions)
Starfish Sea Star 18 Hand Picking 6/12/- Open (See Restrictions)


2021-11-04 12:00:37

Restrictions

Always check for protected areas.

Species Areas Measure Type Measure Value
Shellfish Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Closed Per an Interim Order issued under the Canada Shipping Act, fishing activities are prohibited, and vessels are prohibited from entering areas designated as Interim Sanctuary Zones for killer whales (effective June 1 to November 30 inclusive). Some exceptions apply, including: vessels accessing local residences, business or services; vessels in distress or providing assistance to a person or vessel in distress; vessels avoiding immediate or unforeseen danger; Indigenous peoples exercising existing rights. Additionally, a 20 metre corridor along the shoreline of the Pender and Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zones has been created to allow those in human-powered vessels to transit safely through these areas.
Shrimp/Prawn Coastwide Gear Restriction Traps must be marked with floating tag or buoy that has your name on it. This includes traps tied to a boat or dock or fished from shore. If two traps are attached to one ground-line, it is sufficient to attach a tag, float or buoy that bears the operator's name to one end of the ground-line.
Reminder Combined daily limit for all shrimp species, including prawn, is 125
Shrimp/Prawn Coastwide Gear Restriction Maximum 4 traps or ring nets or combination of these per fisher.
Coastwide Reminder Prawns with eggs: No person shall retain prawns carrying eggs, or remove eggs from the underside of prawns carrying eggs. All prawns carrying eggs externally on the underside of the tail shall be returned to the water immediately and in the manner that causes the least harm.

Area Descriptions

Area Map Area Description
Pender Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Pender_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf That portion of Subarea 18-4 west of Pender Island inside a line commencing at a point at 48°44.167’N and 123°13.917’W [Southeast Boundary (Wallace Point)] westerly to a point in water located at 48°44.153’N and 123°15.517’W [Southwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northwesterly to a point in water at 48°45.817’N and 123°19.300’W [Northwest Boundary (Swanson Channel)], thence northeasterly to point at 48°46.217’N 123°18.867’W [Northeast Boundary (South of Thieves Bay)], and thence southeasterly back to the point of commencement.
Saturna Island Interim Sanctuary Zone - 2021 Saturna_Island_Interim_Sanctuary_Zone-2021.pdf Those portions of Subareas 18-5 and 18-11 off Saturna Island inside a line commencing on the shoreline of Saturna Island at 48°47.150’ north latitude and 123°02.733’ west longitude [North Boundary East Point], then northwesterly to a point in water at 48°47.367' north latitude and 123°02.915' west longitude [Thumbo Channel], thence northeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.617’ north latitude and 123°02.483’ west longitude [Northwest Corner (East of Thumbo Point)], thence southeasterly to a point in water at 48°47.473’ north latitude and 123°01.975 west longitude [Northeast Corner (Boiling Reef)], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.558’ north latitude and 123°03.147’ west longitude [Boundary Pass], thence southwesterly to a point in water at 48°46.333’ north latitude and 123°03.805’ west longitude [Southeast Corner], thence westerly to a point in water at 48°46.350’ north latitude and 123°05.150’ west longitude [Southwest Corner (Narvaez Bay)], thence due north to a point in water at 48°46.683’N and 123°05.150’W [Fiddler’s Cove], and thence northeasterly along the shoreline back to the point of commencement.


2021-06-01 10:15:38

Protected areas

Protected areas

Learn about permanent restrictions that are in effect:

Area Type Closure Name
18-1 Glass Sponge Reef Outer Gulf Islands 1
Outer Gulf Islands 2
Outer Gulf Islands 3
Outer Gulf Islands 4
Rockfish Conservation Area Bell Chain Islets
Mayne Island North
18-2 Rockfish Conservation Area Prevost Island North
18-3 Rockfish Conservation Area Prevost Island North
18-4 Rockfish Conservation Area Bedwell Harbour
18-5 Rockfish Conservation Area Navy Channel
South Saturna
18-6 Rockfish Conservation Area Brethour, Domville, Forrest, Gooch Islands
Coal Island
Portland Island
18-7 Rockfish Conservation Area Burgoyne Bay
Maple Bay
Patey Rock
18-10 Rockfish Conservation Area Russell Island
18-11 Rockfish Conservation Area Bell Chain Islets

Area Descriptions

Area Map Area Description
Bedwell Harbour Bedwell_Harbour.png In Subarea 18-4 that portion of Bedwell Harbour that lies northerly of a line: from 48°44.200'N 123°13.900'W Wallace Point to 48°43.950'N 123°12.483'W Tilly Point and southeasterly of a line: from 48°45.250'N 123°14.500'W South Pender Island to 48°44.900'N 123°14.750'W North Pender Island
Bell Chain Islets Bell_Chain_Islets.png Those portions of Subareas 18-1 and 18-11 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°51.309'N 123°14.775'W Edith Point then to 48°49.500'N 123°09.200'W in water then to 48°48.433'N 123°10.000'W Saturna Island then following the northerly shoreline of Saturna Island to 48°48.827'N 123°11.333'W Winter Point then to 48°48.863'N 123°11.351'W Ralph Grey Point then following the northerly shoreline of Samuel Island to 48°50.000'N 123°14.000'W Grainger Point then to 48°50.797'N 123°14.636'W Campbell Point then to the beginning point.
Brethour, Domville, Forrest, Gooch Islands Brethour,_Domville,_Forrest,_Gooch_Islands.png Those waters of Subareas 18-6 and 19-5 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°41.650'N 123°19.978'W Imrie Island then to 48°41.088'N 123°17.622'W Arachne Reef Light then following the boundary line between Subarea 18-6 and 19-5 to the intersection with the International Boundary between the United States and Canada, then following the International Boundary in a southerly direction to the intersection with the parallel passing through 48°39.800' north latitude, then to 48°39.738'N 123°16.551'W Tom Point then to 48°38.989'N 123°18.081'W South Cod Reef Buoy then to 48°39.400'N 123°19.645'W Forrest Island then following the northerly shoreline of Forrest Island to 48°39.963'N 123°20.467'W Forrest Island then to 48°40.865'N 123°20.410'W Greig Island Daybeacon then to the beginning point.
Burgoyne Bay Those waters of Subarea 18-7 that lie easterly of a line: from 48°47.263'N 123°33.243'W Bold Bluff Point to 48°48.417'N 123°32.813'W shoreline
Coal Island Coal_Island.png Those waters of Subareas 18-6 and 19-5 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°41.278'N 123°24.124'W Swartz Head then to 48°41.474'N 123°23.289'W Fir Cone Point Light then following the westerly shoreline of Coal Island to 48°40.753'N 123°22.626'W west of Kamai Point then to 48°40.232'N 123°22.669'W Little Shell Island then to 48°40.047'N 123°23.859'W Armstrong Point then westerly following the shoreline to 48°40.179'N 123°24.273'W Tsehum Harbour Breakwater then to 48°40.478'N 123°23.804'W Curteis Point then northerly following the shoreline to the beginning point.
Maple Bay Maple_Bay.png Those waters of Maple Bay in Subarea 18-7 that lie westerly of a line: from 48°49.314'N 123°35.195'W Arbutus Point to 48°48.504'N 123°35.333'W Paddy Mile Stone
Mayne Island North Mayne_Island_North.png Those portions of Subareas 18-1 and 29-4 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°53.163'N 123°19.250'W Cain Point then true north to 48°53.259'N 123°19.250'W Gossip Island then following the easterly shoreline of Gossip Island to 48°53.671'N 123°19.367'W Gossip Island then to 48°53.950'N 123°19.100'W in water then to 48°52.300'N 123°15.200'W in water then true south to 48°51.550'N 123°15.200'W Mayne Island, near Edith Point then northwesterly following the Mayne Island shoreline to 48°52.398'N 123°17.487'W Active Pass Light then to 48°53.099'N 123°18.362'W Gossip Shoals Light and Bell Buoy U47 then to 48°52.778'N 123°18.724'W Rip Point then northwesterly following the shoreline of Galiano Island to the beginning point.
Navy Channel Navy_Channel.png That portion of Subarea 18-5 that lies easterly of a line: from 48°50.000'N 123°19.678'W Dinner Point to 48°49.141'N 123°19.632'W Stanley Point and northwesterly of a line: from 48°48.900'N 123°13.933'W west of St. John Point to 48°48.200'N 123°16.554'W north shore of Hope Bay
Outer Gulf Islands 1 Outer_Gulf_Islands_1.jpeg Those portions of Subareas 18-1 and 29-4 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°54.936'N 123°19.589'W then southerly to 48°54.283'N 123°18.529'W then to 48°54.114'N 123°18.619'W then to 48°54.065'N 123°18.771'W then to 48°54.787'N 123°19.929'W then to 48°54.902'N 123°19.793'W then to the beginning point.
Outer Gulf Islands 2 Outer_Gulf_Islands_2.jpeg Those portions of Subareas 18-1 and 29-4 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°52.588'N 123°15.261'W then easterly to 48°52.520'N 123°14.537'W then to 48°51.971'N 123°13.768'W then to 48°51.795'N 123°13.947'W then to 48°52.150'N 123°14.444'W then to 48°52.038'N 123°14.678'W then to 48°52.479'N 123°15.521'W then to the beginning point.
Outer Gulf Islands 3 Outer_Gulf_Islands_3.jpeg Those portions of Subareas 18-1 and 29-4 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°51.602'N 123°13.233'W then southerly to 48°51.309'N 123°12.751'W then to 48°50.913'N 123°12.938'W then to 48°50.844'N 123°13.059'W then to 48°51.163'N 123°13.662'W then to 48°51.579'N 123°13.378'W then to the beginning point.
Outer Gulf Islands 4 Outer_Gulf_Islands_4.jpeg Those portions of Subareas 18-1 and 29-4 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°50.999'N 123°12.391'W then southerly to 48°50.608'N 123°11.603'W then to 48°50.097'N 123°10.956'W then to 48°49.959'N 123°11.182'W then to 48°50.857'N 123°12.654'W then to 48°50.959'N 123°12.566'W then to the beginning point.
Patey Rock Patey_Rock.png Those waters of Subarea 18-7 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°42.250'N 123°31.500'W in water then true east to 48°42.250'N 123°30.500'W in water then true south to 48°41.850'N 123°30.500'W in water then true west to 48°41.850'N 123°31.500'W in water then to the beginning point.
Portland Island Portland_Island.png That portion of Subarea 18-6 that lies inside a line that: begins at 48°44.100'N 123°22.200'W northern tip of Portland Island then to 48°44.012'N 123°20.404'W Canoe Rock Light then to 48°43.339'N 123°21.045'W Pellow Islets Light Buoy U15 then to 48°42.639'N 123°22.962'W Celia Reef Light Buoy U14 then to 48°43.559'N 123°23.215'W Kanaka Bluff Light then following the northwesterly shoreline of Portland Island to the beginning point.
Prevost Island North Prevost_Island_North.png Those waters of Subareas 17-1, 18-2 and 18-3 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°51.000'N 123°25.423'W Athol Peninsula then to 48°51.623'N 123°23.465'W Ben Mohr Light Buoy then to 48°49.949'N 123°21.550'W near Portlock Point then following the northwesterly shoreline of Prevost Island to 48°48.544'N 123°21.940'W Point Liddell then to 48°48.618'N 123°22.902'W Acland Islands Light Buoy then to 48°49.854'N 123°25.033'W Horda Shoals Light Buoy then to 48°50.552'N 123°25.175'W Nose Point Light then following the shoreline of Athol Peninsula to the beginning point.
Russell Island Russell_Island.png Those waters of Subarea 18-10 that lie inside a line that: begins at 48°45.220'N 123°23.222'W Eleanor Point then to 48°44.565'N 123°24.558'W Cecil Rock then to 48°45.308'N 123°25.583'W near Jackson Rock then easterly following the shoreline to the beginning point.
South Saturna South_Saturna.png That portion of Subarea 18-5 that lies inside a line that: begins at 48°46.842'N 123°04.846'W near Fiddlers Cove then to 48°44.750'N 123°05.000'W in water then to 48°43.462'N 123°09.600'W in water then to 48°44.139'N 123°11.029'W Gowlland Point Light then following the northerly shoreline of South Pender Island to 48°45.330'N 123°12.200'W north of Little Bay then to 48°46.473'N 123°12.154'W Croker Point Light then following the southerly shoreline of Saturna Island to the beginning point.


2021-05-05 12:17:03

Date modified: