This publication presents the fishing periods and applicable catch limits for the next two fishing seasons, i.e. until March 31, 2012. It is also available in electronic version (PDF and HTML) on the web site of the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune at the following address: www.mrnf.gouv.qc.ca/en/fishing-rules. This publication deals with sportfishing in Québec waters (with or without tides) for freshwater, anadromous or catadromous species.
Important
This publication does not replace the official texts of the laws and regulations just as the map of the zones that this brochure contains does not replace the regulatory fishing zone maps.
During the season, it is possible that the Department may intervene to put a stop to fishing, where necessary, to avoid over-harvesting certain species or to open some bodies of water to winter fishing in response to an unforeseeable demand. To learn about these changes, consult the News section of the electronic version (HTML) at the following address: (www.mrnf.gouv.qc.ca/en/fishing-rules) or contact an office of the Department in the region in question.
Moreover, it is also possible that the practice of fishing be modified as a result of an agreement between the Gouvernement du Québec and a native nation, or between the Minister of Natural Resources and Wildlife and a native nation or band council. In its resolutions of March 20, 1985 and May 31, 1989, the Québec National Assembly has formally recognized eleven Native Nations in Québec and their particular rights within the existing legislation. The Gouvernement du Québec has chosen to negotiate with these nations in order to reach agreements that would better recognize and specify the exercise of their activities. There is a historical basis for this process and it is considered important for Québec society to establish harmonious relations based on mutual respect and trust. For more details on eventual changes to fishing regulations, contact the Service aux citoyens or an office of the Department in the region in question.
Saltwater species
For sportfishing of saltwater species such as capelin, cod etc., consult the web site of Fisheries and Oceans Canada at the following address: http://www.qc.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/peches-fisheries/recreative-recreational/index-fra.asp or call 418 648-2239
