Drought conditions spur freshwater-fishing ban for Vancouver Island, Gulf Islands

The B.C. government has suspended all fishing in rivers and streams in mid- to southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands because of drought conditions.

The ban, effective July 4, comes as Victoria announced a Level 4 drought rating for the areas due to low stream levels and increased water temperatures. Reduced water flows mean less cover and protection for fish, and higher temperatures mean that fish stress easily, resulting in higher mortality rates when released.

A Level 4 drought rating also means that regional water managers can institute additional conservation measures as thought necessary, including suspension of water licences.

The area affected by the fishing ban encompasses the official Wildlife Management Units 1-1 through 1-6, with only the Qualicum (Big Qualicum) and Quinsam rivers exempted, due to sufficient water levels. Those management areas cover from Bamfield on the west coast of Vancouver Island south to Victoria, and from Campbell River on the east coast of the Island to all points south, including the Gulf Islands.

Fishing in lakes is not affected by the closure order.

According to a Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resources Operations news release dated July 3, fisheries biologists are monitoring about another 75 streams and rivers across the province that are frequently fished. Closures may be instituted on these if present weather conditions persist.