VICTORIA - Conservation concerns have forced the Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection to close the catch-and-release steelhead fishery on the Thompson River. The closure will take effect Nov. 17, 2003, and will remain in place until steelhead numbers recover.

The closure of the sport fishery is a result of steelhead levels dropping to dangerously low levels. The ministry has analysed the latest data and determined that stock levels are at risk of disappearing.

The ministry recognizes the importance of the fishery to the community and to anglers around the world. All wildlife and fishery decisions are based on science. This decision has been reached as a result of consultation with all levels of government, stakeholder groups and First Nations. The long-term viability of steelhead in the Thompson River is of utmost importance and must be protected.

The ministry will continue to gather information on steelhead returns and consider re-opening the fishery once this valuable resource has been restored to a sustainable level.  

Contact:

Liz Bicknell
Communications Director
250 387-9973