Salmon Southern B.C

PACIFIC REGION

INTEGRATED FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PLAN SALMON SOUTHERN B.C. APRIL 1, 2001 TO MARCH 31, 2002 .

Oncorhynchus spp.

This Integrated Fisheries Management Plan is intended for general purposes only. Where there is a discrepancy between the Plan and the Fisheries Act and Regulations, the Act and Regulations are the final authority. A description of Areas and Subareas referenced in this Plan can be found in the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. DEPARTMENT CONTACTS...... 5 2. GLOSSARY...... 9 3. INTRODUCTION...... 13 4. POLICY...... 13 5. PROSPECTS FOR THE SEASON ...... 14 5.1. Southern B.C. Sockeye Stocks...... 14 5.1.1. Fraser River Sockeye...... 14 5.1.2. Barkley Sound Sockeye...... 15 5.2. Southern B.C. Coho Stocks...... 15 5.2.1. Strait of Georgia, Johnstone Strait, Fraser River Including Thompson River Stocks...... 15 5.2.2. West Coast Vancouver Island Stocks...... 16 5.3. Southern B.C. Chinook Stocks ...... 16 5.3.1. Pacific Salmon Treaty Harvest Levels ...... 16 5.3.2. Strait of Georgia and Johnstone Strait Stocks...... 16 5.3.3. Fraser River Stocks ...... 16 5.3.4. West Coast Vancouver Island Stocks...... 17 5.4. Southern B.C. Chum Salmon Stocks...... 17 5.4.1. Inside Stocks...... 17 5.4.2. West Coast Vancouver Island Stocks...... 17 5.5. Southern B.C. Pink Salmon Stocks ...... 18 5.5.1. Fraser River Stocks ...... 18 5.5.2. Study Area Pink Stocks...... 18 6. SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES...... 18 6.1. Conservation Objectives ...... 18 6.1.1. Thompson River Coho ...... 18 6.1.2. WCVI Chinook...... 18 6.1.3. Other Southern B.C. Stocks...... 19 6.2. Sustainability Objectives...... 19 6.3. First Nations Objectives...... 20 6.4. International Objectives...... 20 6.5. Domestic Allocation Objectives...... 21 7. CURRENT MANAGEMENT ISSUES...... 21 7.1. Fraser River Sockeye...... 21 7.2. Interior Fraser Coho ...... 22 7.3. Strait of Georgia Coho ...... 23 7.4. West Coast Vancouver Island Chinook...... 23 7.5. Nimpkish River Sockeye...... 23 7.6. Fraser Summer Run Steelhead and Interior Fraser Steelhead...... 24 7.6.1. First Nations Fisheries...... 24 7.6.2. Commercial Fisheries...... 24

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 1 of 70 7.6.3. Recreational Fisheries...... 25 8. RESEARCH...... 25 8.1. Development of Biological and Fishery Reference Points...... 25 8.2. Total Fishing Mortality...... 25 8.3. Evaluation of Selective Fishing Experiments...... 25 8.3.1. Continued Development of Selective Hatchery Mark Fisheries...... 25 9. SPECIAL MANAGEMENT ZONES ...... 26 9.1. Yellow Zones (Non-prevalent Areas)...... 26 9.2. Special Management Zones for Southern B.C. Coho ...... 27 9.3. 2001 Fraser River Special Management Zone Coho Conservation Measures ...... 28 9.4. Special Management Measures for West Coast of Vancouver Island Chinook...... 28 10. 2001 CONSULTATION OVERVIEW...... 28 10.1. South Coast Area First Nations Salmon Consultation Record...... 28 10.2. Recreational Consultation in Southern B.C...... 30 10.3. Commercial Consultation in Southern B.C...... 30 11. 2001 SOUTHERN B.C./FRASER RIVER FIRST NATIONS FISHING PLAN ...... 31 11.1. Communal Licence Harvest Targets...... 32 11.2. Pilot Sales...... 32 11.2.1. Lower Fraser River Pilot Sales Fisheries...... 32 11.2.2. Somass Food and Sale (Pilot Sale) Fishery...... 33 12. SOUTHERN B.C./FRASER RIVER RECREATIONAL FISHING PLAN...... 33 12.1. Key Information for 2001...... 34 12.2. Special Management Measures for West Coast of Vancouver Island Chinook...... 34 12.2.1. Details of Conservation Corridor...... 35 12.3. Chinook Bag limits and Additional Closed Area Restrictions ...... 36 12.3.1. Area 20 (Subareas 20-1 to 20-3)...... 36 12.3.2. Areas 21 and 22...... 36 12.3.3. Areas 23 and 24...... 36 12.3.4. Areas 121, 123 and 124...... 36 12.3.5. Areas 25 to 27...... 36 12.3.6. Areas 125 to 127...... 36 12.4. Selective Hatchery Mark Coho Fishing Opportunities ...... 37 12.5. Terminal Coho Fishing Opportunities...... 37 12.5.1. Johnstone Strait, Strait of Georgia and Fraser River ...... 37 12.5.2. West Coast Vancouver Island ...... 37 13. SOUTHERN B.C./FRASER RIVER COMMERCIAL FISHING PLAN...... 38 13.1. Selective Fishing Measures...... 38 13.1.1. Seine Selective Fishing Measures...... 39 13.1.2. Gill Net Selective Fishing Measures...... 39 13.1.3. Troll Selective Fishing Measures...... 40 13.1.4. Revival Tank Design and Other Selective Fishing Measures...... 41 13.2. Harvest Plan Details ...... 42 13.2.1. South Coast Net...... 42

Page 2 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 13.2.2. Strait of Georgia - Areas 14 to 18...... 45 13.2.3. West Coast Vancouver Island - Areas 21 to 27...... 46 13.2.4. San Juan and Fraser River - Area 20 and 29 ...... 46 13.3. Area G Troll (Outside Waters)...... 48 13.3.1. Barkley Sound Sockeye...... 48 13.3.2. Fraser River Sockeye...... 49 13.3.3. Fraser River Pink ...... 49 13.3.4. Chum (West Coast of Vancouver Island)...... 50 13.3.5. Chinook...... 50 13.3.6. Summary of Anticipated Fishing Opportunities for Area G Troll...... 51 13.4. Area H Troll (Inside Waters)...... 52 13.4.1. Chinook...... 52 13.4.2. Coho ...... 52 13.4.3. Sockeye, Pink and Chum...... 52 13.5. Catch Monitoring Programs...... 54 13.6. Salmon Logbook and Catch Reporting Requirements...... 55 13.6.1. Vessel Masters ...... 55 13.6.2. Vessel Owners...... 56 13.6.3. Confidentiality of Harvest Data...... 56 13.6.4. Fish Slip Requirements...... 57 13.7. Marine Radio Information Updates...... 57 13.7.1. Area G Troll ...... 57 13.7.2. Area H Troll ...... 57 14. EXCESS SALMON TO SPAWNING REQUIREMENTS FISHERIES ...... 58 15. ENFORCEMENT...... 59 15.1. Overview...... 59 15.2. Results from Previous Season...... 59 15.3. Main Program Activities...... 60 15.3.1. Priorities for 2001...... 60 15.3.2. First Nations ...... 60 15.3.3. Recreational...... 60 15.3.4. Commercial...... 60 15.3.5. Dockside Monitoring...... 61 15.3.6. Fishery Patrol Vessels and Aerial Surveillance...... 61 15.3.7. Conservation and Protection Evaluation Criteria...... 61 16. POST SEASON REVIEW...... 61 16.1. Conservation/Sustainability...... 62 16.2. International Considerations and Objectives...... 65 16.2.1. Fraser River Sockeye...... 65 16.2.2. Southern B.C. Chum...... 67 16.2.3. Southern B.C. Chinook...... 67 16.3. Domestic Considerations...... 67 16.4. Aboriginal Fisheries...... 68

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 3 of 70 16.5. Recreational Fishery...... 68 16.6. Commercial Fisheries...... 69 16.7. Exploratory/Experimental Fisheries...... 69 17. NEWS RELEASES...... 70 18. ATTACHMENTS...... 70

Page 4 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 1. DEPARTMENT CONTACTS

Recreational Salmon Updates (Talking Yellow Pages) Vancouver (604) 299-9000 Enter code 3467 (FINS) Victoria (250) 953-9000 Nanaimo (250) 741-9000 Rest of B.C. (877) 320-3467

24 Hour Recorded Information Vancouver (604) 666-2828 Port Hardy (250) 949-8181 Nanaimo (250) 754-0281 Port Alberni (250) 723-0417

Pacific Salmon Commission (PSC) Office (604) 684-8081 PSC Test Fisheries (Recorded, In-Season Information) (604) 666-8200

Tidal Waters Recreational Fishing Queries (604) 666-0981

Regional Headquarters

Director, Resource Management Don Radford (604) 666-6931 A/Chief, Salmon Operations Greg Savard (604) 666-0497 A/Salmon Officer Andrea Petersen (604) 666-4902 Regional Recreational Co-ordinator Wayne Saito (604) 666-3271 Director, Conservation and Protection Chris Dragseth (604) 666-0604 Director, Oceans Program Dick Carson (604) 666-7971 A/Regional Aquaculture Co-ordinator Andrew Morgan (604) 666-3152

Pacific Fishery Licence Unit (604) 666-0566 480-555 West Hastings Street Vancouver, B.C. V6B 5G3

North Coast Area

Area Director John Lubar (250) 627-3416 Area Chief, Resource Management David Einarson (250) 627-3426 Area Chief, Conservation and Protection Siegi Kriegl (250) 627-3402 Area Chief, Salmon Stock Assessment Dave Peacock (250) 627-3467 Integrated Management Co-ordinator Dale Gueret (250) 627-3408 Area Chief, North Coast Habitat Bruce Shepherd (250) 627-3453 Resource Manager - Q.C. Islands (Areas 1 and 2) Victor Fradette (250) 559-4467

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 5 of 70 Resource Manager - Nass/Skeena/Kitimat (Areas 3 to 6) Dan Wagner (250) 627-3425 Resource Manager - Selective Fisheries Jim Steward (250) 627-3421 Salmon Biologist Mark Potyrala (250) 627-3459 A/Resource Manager, AFS Karen Kimura-Miller (250) 627-3436 Resource Manager - North Coast Troll Dave Rekdal (250) 627-3476 Resource Manager - Recreational Co-ordinator Mark Reagan (250) 627-3409 Information Co-ordinator - North Coast Vacant

North Coast Net Openings (250) 627-3471 North Coast Troll Openings (250) 627-3470

Pacific Fishery Licence Unit (250) 627-3413 417 2nd Avenue West Prince Rupert, B.C. V8J 1G8

Central Coast Area

Area Director Rebecca Reid (250) 902-0481 A/Area Chief of Conservation Management Gordon McEachen (250) 850-5730 A/Area Chief, Regulatory Affairs John Lewis (250) 850-5700 A/Area Chief, Oceans and Community Stewardship Gary Taccogna (250) 949-8291 Resource Manager - Bella Bella/Bella Coola (Area 7 to 10) Lyle Enderud (250) 799-5345 Resource Management Biologist - Central Coast vacant Resource Manager - North Coast Troll Dave Rekdal (250) 627-3476 A/Resource Manager - Johnstone Strait (Areas 11 to 13) Kent Spencer (250) 850-5705 A/Resource Manager - Strait of Georgia (Areas 12 to 16) Rick Senger (250) 850-5706 A/Resource Manager - WCVI/Strait of Georgia (Areas 17 to 20) Gerry Kelly (250) 754-0208 Resource Manager - AFS (Areas 7 to 10) Kristen Smith (250) 902-0482 A/Resource Manager - AFS (Areas 11 to 13 and 27) Murray McPherson (250) 850-5711 Salmon Biologist - South Coast Bill Shaw (250) 756-7152 Salmon Biologist - South Coast (catch monitoring) Leroy Hop Wo (250) 756-7294 Resource Manager - Recreational Co-ord. (Areas 7 to 10) Mark Reagan (250) 627-3409 Resource Manager - Recreational Co-ord. (Areas 11 to 13) Terry Gjernes (250) 756-7192

Lower Fraser River Area

Area Director Pablo Sobrino (604) 666-6478 Area Chief, Resource Management Paul Ryall (604) 666-6509 A/Area Chief, Conservation and Protection Brian Richmond (604) 607-4156 A/Area Chief, Salmon Stock Assessment Neil Schubert (604) 666-8452 Area Chief, Lower Fraser Habitat Dale Paterson (604) 666-0315 Resource Manager - Area E Jim Echols (604) 666-2370

Page 6 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Resource Manager - AFS (Below Port Mann) Debbie Sneddon (604) 666-8426 Resource Manager - AFS (Above Port Mann) Brian Matts (604) 666-2096 Salmon Biologist Bridget Ennevor (604) 666-6608 Catch Monitoring Technician Terry Robertson (604) 666-3478 Salmon Biologist - Area E (Sockeye, Pink) Al MacDonald (604) 666-8616 Salmon Biologist - Area E (Coho, Chum, Chinook) Melanie Sullivan (604) 666-2417 Aboriginal Liason Jennifer Spence (604) 666-2403 Resource Manager - Recreational Fisheries Devona Adams (604) 666-6512

B.C. Interior

Area Director Darro Stinson (250) 851-4865 A/Area Chief, Resource Management Barry Rosenberger (250) 851-4953 Area Chief, Conservation and Protection Randy Nelson (250) 851-4956 Area Chief, B.C. Interior Habitat Gord Kosakoski (250) 851-4959 Resource Manager - Prince George Barry Huber (250) 561-5966 Resource Manager - Kamloops Grant Scott (250) 851-4849 Resource Manager - Kamloops Elmer Fast (250) 851-4878 A/Resource Manager - Kamloops Brigid Payne (250) 851-4955 Resource Management Biologist – Kamloops Les Jantz (250) 851-4950 Resource Manager - Kamloops Merv Mochizuki (250) 851-4952

South Coast Area

Area Director Ron Kadowaki (250) 756-7280 A/Area Chief, Resource Management Randy Brahniuk (250) 756-7288 Area Chief, Conservation and Protection Robb Wilson (250) 756-7159 Area Chief, Salmon Stock Assessment Wilf Luedke (250) 756-7157 A/ Area Chief, Oceans and Community Stewardship Kelly Francis (250) 756-7095 Area Chief, South Coast Habitat Bruce MacDonald (250) 756-7284 Resource Manager - WCVI (Areas 20 to 26) Laurie Gordon (250) 723-0118 A/Resource Manager - Strait of Georgia (Areas 12 to 16) Rick Senger (250) 850-5706 A/Resource Manager - WCVI/Strait of Georgia (Areas 17 to 20) Gerry Kelly (250) 754-0208 Salmon Biologist - South Coast Bill Shaw (250) 756-7152 Salmon Biologist - South Coast (catch monitoring) Leroy Hop Wo (250) 756-7294 Resource Manager - AFS (Strait of Georgia) Jonathan Joe (250) 756-7243 A/Resource Manager - AFS (WCVI) Paul Preston (250) 756-7345 Resource Manager - Recreational Co-ordinator Terry Gjernes (250) 756-7192

Pacific Fishery Licence Unit (250) 754-0400 60 Front Street Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 5H7

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 7 of 70 Selective Fisheries

Regional Selective Fisheries Co-ordinator Don Lawseth (250) 756-7003 North Coast Selective Fisheries Project Authority Jim Steward (250) 627-3421 South/Central Coast Selective Fisheries Project Authority Gordon Curry (250) 756-7255 Fraser River Commercial and First Nations Project Authority Jim Echols (604) 666-2370

Web Sites

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Pacific Region: www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/

North Coast: www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/northfm/

Fraser River: www-ops.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/frd/default.htm

PSC web site (for Fraser River Panel updates): www.psc.org

Tidal and Fresh Water Salmon Regulations: www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/english/main/recreation.htm

Useful fish-related links and information about the Fisheries and Oceans Canada/B.C. Hydro-funded FishSMART project. www.fishsmart.org

Page 8 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 2. GLOSSARY

aquaculture The process of spawning fish and rearing the progeny to marketable size, usually involving some level of intervention (eg., feeding, predator protection) by the aquaculturist.

Area As in Section 2 of the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations, available through the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/fishmgmt.htm

Area 2E Subareas 2-31 to 2-100, as described in the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations.

Area 2W Subareas 2-1 to 2-19, as described in the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations.

brood year The parental year for a group of returning salmon, i.e. the calendar year when the majority of parents of these fish spawned.

by-catch Incidental or unintentional catch of non-target stocks or species.

coded-wire tag (CWT) A small metal tag inserted into the nose of a juvenile salmon (usually hatchery stock) prior to release or migration to the ocean. The tag has encoded information that indicates the origin and year of release of the fish.

Communal Licence Issued to First Nations’ organizations pursuant to the Aboriginal Communal Fishing Licences Regulations to carry on fishing and related activities.

communal commercial Issued to First Nations’ organizations pursuant to the Aboriginal licence Communal Fishing Licences Regulations for participation in the general commercial fishery. Licences issued are equivalent to the capacity of licences that have been retired under the Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy (AFS) Licence Retirement/Allocation Transfer Program.

corkline to web The shortest distance between the corkline of a gill net and the webbing of a distance gill net.

diversion rate The percentage of returning sockeye salmon run that choose the eastern (inside) migration route around Vancouver Island when returning to the Fraser River.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 9 of 70 escapement The number of salmon returning to the spawning grounds. In the absence of other sources of mortality, the total run-size to a system is the total catch plus the total escapement. enhancement Use of hatcheries, spawning channels, lake fertilization or habitat restoration to increase the survival rate or production of salmon at some stage of its life.

ESSR Excess Salmon to Spawning Requirements. This fishery occurs when salmon stocks return to a system after passing through the various fisheries and are at a level in excess of the capacity of the spawning grounds or enhancement facility, usually a hatchery, to receive them. exploitation rate Expressed as percentage, the proportion of the total return of adult salmon in a given year that die as a result of fishing activity. gill net A rectangular net that does not enclose an area of water, and is used to catch fish by enmeshing them. A detailed description is available through the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/Salmon/fishery.htm landed or landing The transfer of catch from a licensed vessel to land (including docks and wharves). landing hail Report required by licence condition as notification prior to landing or offloading catch at the end of a fishing trip.

“A” licence A category “A” licence allows commercial fishing for salmon.

“N” licence Salmon category “N” licences are party-based licences held by the Northern Native Fishing Corporation for vessels designated by the corporation to fish in the commercial fishery for salmon.

“FA” licence Salmon category “FA” licences are issued to First Nations’ organizations pursuant to the Aboriginal Communal Fishing Licences Regulations to allow fishing in the commercial fishery for salmon. observer An individual who has been designated as an observer by the Regional Director General of Fisheries and Oceans Canada for Pacific Region pursuant to section 39 of the Fishery (General) Regulations, available through the Internet at:

Page 10 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/F-14/SOR-93-53/text.html on-board Referring to that which takes place or exists on the licensed fishing vessel as compared to on land. packer A vessel licensed to pack or transport commercially caught fish.

PFRCC Pacific Fisheries Resource Conservation Council

PSARC Pacific Scientific Advice Review Committee

PSC Pacific Salmon Commission

PST Pacific Salmon Treaty recruitment The process whereby young fish are added to an adult population. run size The number of salmon returning to a given system in a given year.

Salmon Area One of six areas on the Pacific Coast. For salmon seine there are two areas, Salmon Area A (north coast) and Salmon Area B (south coast); for gill net there are three areas, Salmon Area C (north coast), Salmon Area D (portion of south coast) and Salmon Area E (portion of south coast and the Fraser River); for troll there are three areas, Salmon Area F (north coast), Salmon Area G (WCVI and Queen Charlotte Strait), and Salmon Area H (Johnstone and Georgia Strait). Further detail is available through the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/Licensing/Default.htm seine Includes a purse seine and a drag seine. Seine nets are set in a circle around aggregations of fish; the bottom edges of the net are then drawn together into a “purse” to prevent escape of the fish. A detailed description is available through the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/Salmon/fishery.htm selective fishing The ability to avoid non-target species and stocks or, if encountered, to release them alive and unharmed. stakeholder Used interchangeably with the term “resource-user”, to include all users of fisheries resources including First Nations, recreational and commercial fishers of fish, marine mammals and aquatic plants. Depending on the

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 11 of 70 fishery, it may also include crew members or charter services, and other parties that provide support to the various fisheries. stock assessment Analyses of fisheries and research data used to estimate stock abundance and health, or evaluate the effects of fishing on a stock or population and predict the reactions of populations to alternative management choices. stock A biologically discrete population. Fish species are made up of an aggregate of stocks.

Subarea A portion of an Area, as in Section 2 of the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations, available through the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/fishmgmt.htm. surfline The lines described in Schedule I of the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations. total allowable catch The amount of catch that may be taken from a stock determined by (TAC) analytical procedures to achieve management objectives. trolling Fishing with a hook or hooks attached to a line that is towed through the water or from a vessel. Commercial trollers employ hooks and lines that are suspended from large poles extending from the fishing vessel. A detailed description is available through the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/Salmon/fishery.htm verification Confirming any or all of the following activities: estimating, weighing, and sampling all species, inspection of fishing records and/or interviewing the vessel master.

WCVI West Coast of Vancouver Island weedline The line that connects the corkline of a gill net with the webbing of a gill net, the length of the corkline is also called the “corkline to web distance”.

Page 12 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 3. INTRODUCTION

This 2001/2002 South Coast Salmon Integrated Fisheries Management Plan (IFMP) encompasses the period April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2002 for First Nations, recreational and commercial fisheries directed towards Pacific salmon in the southern areas of British Columbia. The plan includes tidal and non-tidal waters from Cape Caution south to the British Columbia/Washington border, including the Fraser River watershed. The tidal waters within this area are denoted as Management Areas 11 to 29 inclusive as well as Areas 111, 121, and 123 to 127 inclusive. For the purposes of this fishing plan, non-tidal waters are defined as the watersheds that contain anadromous salmon and flow into Areas 11 to 29 in this plan. Pacific salmon species include only sockeye, coho, pink, chum, and chinook salmon.

This plan describes the management of Pacific salmon fisheries in southern B.C. and the factors which influence its management. The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans has approved this IFMP.

Management actions outlined in this plan may be subject to change in-season in response to abundance levels of returning salmon stocks. Salmon fishing opportunities outlined in this plan are expected to occur but are not guaranteed.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada will continue to consult with First Nations, recreational, and commercial fishers throughout the season regarding fishing plans and changes to these plans, especially where specific conservation concerns may exist, with the intent of providing an integrated approach to fisheries management.

This plan has been written in the IFMP format and readers will note that 2001 salmon fishing plan information for First Nations, recreational, and commercial fishers are now incorporated into the main body of the plan. The plan recognizes the need for ecosystem-based management approaches and the goal of developing selective fishing standards and implementation plans by January 2003.

In response to the feedback about the pilot IFMP program of 2000/2001, the format of the IFMP has changed. Details about biology, policy, historical information and may other departmental initiatives are posted on the Pacific salmon web pages at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/Salmon/index.htm.

If you have no access to the Internet, any Fisheries and Oceans Canada office can download and print the information you need. Please allow a minimum of one week to obtain the information. In general, information which does not change each season is confined to the website. Information which changes on an annual basis is contained in this IFMP. Feedback from fishers is encouraged so that change can be made that will ensure the plan is of the most value to users.

4. POLICY

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 13 of 70 Significant policy reform has occurred in Pacific Region salmon management programs in the past six years. Continued change and evolution of new policy is expected to occur for the next several years. These policy changes are being guided by both international and domestic considerations, both of which highlight a commitment to manage marine resources in an ecosystem-based, precautionary approach that stresses the importance of integrated management and conserving biological diversity.

In October 1998, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans presented a vision for the future through the release of “A New Direction for Canada’s Pacific Salmon Fisheries”. This paper sets out a broad policy direction for management of the salmon fisheries. The paper has formed the basis of a permanent move to conservation-based salmon fisheries management in the Pacific Region. This new direction has three key components:

a) Conservation b) Sustainable Use c) Improved Decision Making

A number of new policy initiatives have been initiated based on the principles of this paper, including a salmon allocation framework, a selective fishing protocol and discussion papers on the management of wild salmon stocks and improved decision-making. Additional policy papers are expected to follow under the New Directions policy series.

Salmon management programs in 2001 (and future years) will continue to be guided by these policy initiatives. More information on these policies can be found at:

www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/publication_e.htm

5. PROSPECTS FOR THE SEASON

Detailed expectations regarding the 2001 salmon returns to Areas 11 to 29 are outlined below. The Salmon Stock Assessment Section of Science Branch provided run size information and predictions based on evaluations of survival trends and brood year escapements for the appropriate stocks. These projections may be altered as additional information is compiled during the 2001 salmon season. Pre- season run size estimates are provided for some stocks. 5.1. Southern B.C. Sockeye Stocks

5.1.1. Fraser River Sockeye Adult returns of sockeye to the Fraser River on the 2001 cycle are in the high range of the four cycle lines averaging 9.3 million compared to the all year average of 7.7 million. The stocks expected to produce the largest returns in 2001, based on brood year escapement estimates for 1997, are Quesnel, Late Stuart, Chilko, Stellako, Early Stuart and Birkenhead sockeye.

Page 14 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan The 2001 forecast for all Fraser River sockeye stocks combined ranges from 6.8 million to 12.9 million sockeye, at the 75% to 50% probability levels respectively (i.e. there is a 75% probability that the total return will exceed 6.8 million and a 50% probability that the return will exceed 12.9 million). The forecasts for each of the four main stock aggregates are provided below. The summer run group, including Chilko, Quesnel and Late Stuart, accounts for 74% of the forecast.

System Return at 50% Return at 75% Early Stuart 420,000 258,000 Early Summers 207,000 109,000 Summer 11,715,000 6,159,000 Lates 528,000 274,000 Total Fraser 12,870,000 6,800,000

The preliminary estimate for Fraser River sockeye suggests a run size, which should allow for a significant catch of summer run stocks in Canadian fisheries. For pre-season planning purposes the 75% forecast of 6.8 million is used. Contingencies have also been explored at the 50% probability level. The total allowable catch (TAC) for each system is based largely on sockeye run size and escapement objectives. Other considerations will include by-catch concerns for Thompson River coho, as well as early timed sockeye. Two additional concerns that will guide decisions in 2001 are potential adverse water conditions (low water and high temperatures) and early migration of late run sockeye into the Fraser River. These objectives/concerns will be the primary considerations in developing fishing plans for 2001. In 2000 the actual returns for all four main stock groups of Fraser River sockeye were above the 75% probability level and the diversion through Johnstone Strait was greater than the forecast of 30%. 5.1.2. Barkley Sound Sockeye Preliminary information suggests that the 2001 return should provide for some surplus and fishing opportunities for all harvest groups. The pre-season expectation is estimated at 548,000 sockeye, which is at the conservative range of estimates. In-season assessments will be conducted to detect significant change from the preseason forecast, and allow adjustments to fishing plans in a timely manner. 5.2. Southern B.C. Coho Stocks

5.2.1. Strait of Georgia, Johnstone Strait, Fraser River Including Thompson River Stocks For the Strait of Georgia coho, including Fraser and Thompson River stocks, conservation concerns for coho continue in 2001. The expectation of continued poor returns is based on:

a) Expected continued extremely low marine survival rate.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 15 of 70 b) Continued low levels of smolt production. c) The brood year (1998) spawner numbers were generally low.

This conservation concern will again impact fishing opportunities in southern B.C. salmon fisheries. Fishing opportunities for Strait of Georgia, Johnstone Strait and Fraser River coho stocks will likely be restricted to terminal harvest of enhanced stocks. 5.2.2. West Coast Vancouver Island Stocks Some improvement in the overall stock strength for WCVI (West Coast Vancouver Island) coho stocks in 2001 is expected based on recent trends and brood year escapement levels. Levels are expected to be sufficient to provide limited fishing opportunities in some terminal areas for First Nations and recreational fisheries. 5.3. Southern B.C. Chinook Stocks

5.3.1. Pacific Salmon Treaty Harvest Levels The Pacific Salmon Treaty (PST) harvest level for the outer WCVI area for the period October 1, 2000 to September 30, 2001 is 135,000 chinook. This harvest level is calculated by the Chinook Model endorsed by the Pacific Salmon Commission (PSC) and may be adjusted downward as required to meet Canadian domestic obligations such as First Nation and allocation priorities. Stocks harvested in this fishery include the Fraser River, Thompson River, Strait of Georgia, Johnstone Strait, Puget Sound, Columbia River and coastal Washington stocks. This TAC does not include the terminal catch of local stocks. The planned allocation of the TAC includes First Nations food, social and ceremonial needs, as well as the recreational and commercial troll catch. 5.3.2. Strait of Georgia and Johnstone Strait Stocks Generally, returns to the Strait of Georgia and Johnstone Strait are expected to be similar to 2000, which have been returning at low levels. Lower Strait of Georgia stocks, in particular, are expected to continue to be well below average. 5.3.3. Fraser River Stocks The forecast for lower Fraser River (Harrison and Chilliwack) “white” chinook is for a good return (in total numbers and large females). Mass marked chinook will return to the Chilliwack River this fall creating the possibility of a selective mark fishery, although conservation concerns for co-migrating coho may restrict opportunities. Summer Thompson River stocks are generally healthy. However, escapements of some early returning chinook populations have declined, despite harvest rate restrictions and reductions in some fisheries. If poor escapements continue in 2001 reductions in some fisheries may be required in spring of 2002.

Page 16 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 5.3.4. West Coast Vancouver Island Stocks Severe conservation concerns for returning WCVI chinook stocks continue in 2001. The concern is based on poor returns expected for the Stamp River/Robertson Creek Hatchery chinook, which is used as an indicator for returns of all WCVI wild and hatchery chinook. The 2001 pre-season forecast for the Somass/Stamp River is 14,220 chinook. The return composition to most systems in 2000 included a large proportion of age two chinook and very few age three, age four and age five chinook. This indicates that a significant proportion of the run in 2001 will be age three fish. Most age three chinook are males, thus low numbers of females are expected. 5.4. Southern B.C. Chum Salmon Stocks

5.4.1. Inside Stocks Returns of chum to the Johnstone and Georgia Strait area are expected to be below average. The 2001 pre-season forecast is 2.3 million chum. Brood year escapements in 1997 were low, particularly in the non-enhanced areas. Ocean conditions affecting year 2001 returns are uncertain. Recent trends have indicated poor ocean survival. Consequently, the forecast return for 2001 is well below average. In-season assessment of chum stocks is planned to assess potential fishing opportunities. Harvest plans and the management strategy for these stocks are currently under review.

Terminal fisheries may occur in some areas, such as the Fraser River and mid- Vancouver Island areas, but are dependent upon returning stock abundance and conservation requirements for co-migrating stocks such as coho and steelhead. 5.4.2. West Coast Vancouver Island Stocks Chums returning to the WCVI are expected to be below average due to low escapements in the brood years and low survival due to poor ocean conditions.

The pre-season forecast for Nootka (Area 25) is 224,000 chum. This forecast would provide for a limited surplus of approximately 19,000 chum. A limited fixed effort fishing strategy will continue in 2001.

For Nitinat, the pre-season forecast is 153,000 chum, this is well below the escapement target of 250,000 chum, therefore, no fishing opportunities are expected with the exception of small First Nations harvests for food, social and ceremonial purposes. An established management plan, based on achieving weekly escapement milestones into Nitinat Lake, will determine fishing opportunities.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 17 of 70 5.5. Southern B.C. Pink Salmon Stocks

5.5.1. Fraser River Stocks The projected run size for Fraser River pink salmon at 50% probability is 5,400,000. This is less than the escapement goal of 6,000,000 pink salmon. As a result, no fisheries targeting pink salmon are expected, although incidental catch is expected during Fraser sockeye fisheries. 5.5.2. Study Area Pink Stocks Study Area pink stocks are comprised of pink salmon returning to Areas 12-14, including the mainland inlets of Areas 12 and 13. The odd years for Study Area pink salmon are usually the sub-dominant years for this area. No terminal fisheries are anticipated except for possible opportunities targeting either Glendale River (in Knights Inlet) or the Kakwekan River (in Thompson Sound). These Mainland Inlets will be assessed in-season to determine potential terminal fishing opportunities.

6. SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

6.1. Conservation Objectives

6.1.1. Thompson River Coho 6.1.1.1. Objective: To minimize impacts on Thompson River coho in all fisheries. Maintain exploitation rates at a level similar to or less than recent years (1998 to 2000) which was in the range of 2% to 3% in Canadian fisheries.

Develop and manage fisheries that will minimize the impacts on Thompson River coho to levels similar to recent years.

Exploitation rates on Thompson River coho will be determined through the monitoring of coho encountered from fisheries conducted in 2001 and by evaluating the stock composition of coho stocks in the fishing areas from the 2001 season. This information will be analyzed post-season to determine the final exploitation rate estimate on Thompson coho for the 2001 return. 6.1.2. WCVI Chinook 6.1.2.1. Objective: to minimize the mortality of WCVI chinook stocks in all Canadian fisheries to a maximum exploitation rate of 5%, similar to that in 2000.

Develop and manage fisheries in Canadian waters that will minimize the impacts on returning 2001 adults that are of age four and older composition of the stock.

Page 18 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Exploitation rates on WCVI chinook stocks will be determined through the monitoring of chinook catch and encounters from fisheries conducted in 2001 and by evaluating the stock composition of chinook stocks in the fishing areas where these stocks are present which are primarily the WCVI and Queen Charlotte Islands (Area 1 and 2W). This information will be analyzed post-season to determine the overall exploitation rate estimate on WCVI chinook stocks for the 2001 return. 6.1.3. Other Southern B.C. Stocks 6.1.3.1. Objective: No downward trending salmon stocks in the Southern B.C. Suitable management actions will be implemented to minimize fishing impacts on stocks of concern.

The highest priority when managing fisheries is to ensure conservation of stocks is maintained. Therefore, the primary goal is to achieve escapement targets. Salmon returns vary from year to year, and one poor year of escapement does not necessarily mean there is a conservation concern. Also, some stocks (such as Strait of Georgia coho) are at a depressed but stable state. Special attention will be given to those stocks that appear to exhibit a downward trend, and management actions will be taken to make sure that any downward escapement trends do not continue.

Levels of salmon escapement in southern B.C. streams will be measured with a suite of methods, including stream walks, aerial flights, and programs such as fence counts and mark/recapture on some systems. Results of enumeration will be made available at the conclusion of the season. Escapements will be analyzed and compared with previous years to determine trends.

6.1.3.2. Objective: To continue the implementation of selective fishing measures in 2001 fisheries. To conduct scientific experimental projects to further improve selective fishing techniques for the future.

To ensure conservation and protection of salmon stocks, their habitat and ecosystems. This will be accomplished through the application of scientific management principles such as selective fishing techniques applied in a precautionary manner and based on the best scientific advice and knowledge available.

In-season monitoring of fisheries will be conducted to ensure that selective fishing techniques are being practised. Scientific experimental selective fishing projects will be analyzed to determine their effectiveness. 6.2. Sustainability Objectives

6.2.1. Objective: Consultations for the 2001 salmon season are summarized in this plan and a complete consultation record of the 2001 season will be available during the post season review.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 19 of 70 A prime objective is to ensure consultation occurs with all stakeholders, and ensure that input is received regarding the fishing plan or any changes to the fishing plan or contingencies outlined in the plan. 6.2.2. Objective: A post-season enforcement summary will be provided to advisors for their consideration. This report will determine the level of non-compliance in fisheries that were conducted. If there is widespread non-compliance identified in any particular fishery or provision of a fishery, advice will be sought on how to address this in future years. The main goal is to have fisheries implemented which have a high compliance rate. Maintaining manageability and enforceability of the various salmon fisheries is an important objective. Part of this objective is to maintain the option of closing fisheries on short notice if there is non-compliance observed.

Performance will be measured by observed compliance rates which will include the analysis of the number of incident and violation reports received, as well as whether there was any action taken to curtail fisheries where compliance was a problem. 6.3. First Nations Objectives

6.3.1. Objective: Manage fisheries to meet objectives of priority access to First Nations. Ensure that, subject to conservation needs, first priority is accorded to First Nations for opportunities to harvest fish for food, social and ceremonial purposes and any treaty obligations.

Feedback from consultation sessions is relied on to measure the performance of providing first priority to First Nations for opportunities to catch fish for food, social and ceremonial purposes and any treaty obligations. 6.4. International Objectives

6.4.1. Objective: Manage Canadian treaty fisheries to ensure compliance with the PST. Ensure that obligations within the PST are achieved. Details can be found at the PSC website at:

www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pst-tsp/agree/toc_e.htm.

Review of the performance of the PST provisions occurs annually at two bi-lateral meetings of the Southern and Fraser Panels of the PSC, and those results are published post season.

Page 20 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 6.5. Domestic Allocation Objectives

6.5.1. Objective: Manage fisheries in a manner that is consistent with the allocation policy and the 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan. Manage fisheries in accordance with the Allocation Policy for Pacific Salmon, released in October 1999, and published on the Fisheries and Oceans Regional website at:

www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/english/allocation/allocation_form.htm.

Fishery summaries will be available post-season which will be used to determine if allocation policies have been adhered to.

7. CURRENT MANAGEMENT ISSUES

7.1. Fraser River Sockeye In recent years early Stuart sockeye returns have been weak and only limited exploitation has been permitted. If 2001 forecasts are accurate, some limited fishing opportunities for First Nations are expected, though development of sharing arrangements between First Nations will be required. No commercial harvest opportunities are expected on these stocks and non- retention of sockeye in the recreational fishery may be required during the migration period.

A poor return of early summer run sockeye is expected and will require protection. This stock is difficult to manage due to the overlap in timing with the summer run stock group and the difficulty associated with tracking abundance and run-timing in-season. Consultations are ongoing to develop specific management actions that are expected to be similar to those in 1997 when a window closure was used to pass these stocks through fisheries.

The summer sockeye stock group is expected to return in high numbers relative to long-term averages and are expected to allow for fishing opportunities by all harvest groups. These opportunities will be limited by the presence of other weaker stocks (early summer and late run) whose run timing overlaps to various degrees with that of the summer run. This is expected to lead to a compression of fishing activity in marine areas to short fishing openings. Dates for window closures and anticipated fishing opportunities are currently being developed and will be finalized prior to the season.

Late timed sockeye stocks will require specific management actions if the recent trend of early migrations into the Fraser river and resulting high levels of pre-spawn mortality continues. Specific actions to be taken are the subject of ongoing discussions with the objective of meeting spawning requirements.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 21 of 70 Another significant concern for Fraser sockeye is environmental conditions. In some recent years adverse water conditions, caused by dry weather and low snow packs, have resulted in low water flows and high water temperatures. This led to in-season management actions in the Fraser River to ensure adequate numbers of fish reached the spawning grounds. This may be the case again in 2001. Environmental Water Reports will be used to assist in defining the required management actions. For further information visit the Fraser River Environmental Watch Program’s website at:

www-sci.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fwh/

With fisheries restrictions to protect co-migrating weak stocks, some summer run stocks may arrive at the spawning groups in numbers in excess of spawning requirements. The department will likely receive requests by in-river First Nations to hold fisheries on these wild salmon stocks. Such request would be reviewed in light of the department’s Excess Salmon to Spawning Requirements Fisheries policy.

The Area B seine fleet has submitted a proposal to conduct a highly selective, restricted and monitored seine fishery in Area 20. If there is a significant TAC to harvest and there is a high outside diversion rate, fisheries in Area 20 would greatly assist in achieving catch targets. In reviewing this proposal, impacts on Thompson River coho will have to be considered. Should fisheries proceed, potential impacts will have to fit within the overall objective for managing Thompson River coho. The proposal is under review by the department, and a decision on seine fishing opportunities in Area 20, will be confirmed prior to the season.

If there is a high outside sockeye diversion, fishing opportunities for the Area G troll fleet on the WCVI would be explored. However, there is potential for significant by-catch of stocks of concern, (e.g. Thompson River coho and local returning WCVI chinook). Fishing opportunities will be dependent on by-catch levels and meeting conservation objectives for stocks of concern. Under a high inside sockeye diversion scenario, the Area G troll fleet will have the opportunity to harvest sockeye in the upper Johnstone Strait area (Areas 11 and upper Area 12). 7.2. Interior Fraser Coho Interior Fraser coho (including Thompson River coho) remain in a depressed state and are expected to return at low levels again in 2001. There will be no targeted coho fisheries on these stocks in 2001 and all fisheries that have the potential to impact on them will have constraints applied that limit the exploitation rate to similar levels experienced during the 1998 to 2000 period.

Fisheries in Canadian waters are managed as an aggregate to ensure that impacts on Thompson River coho stocks meet conservation objectives. Consequently, anticipated 2001 fisheries such as recreational selective hatchery mark coho fisheries and seine fishing opportunities for sockeye in Area 20 require further analysis before final decisions are made.

Page 22 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan There are strong indications that Georgia Basin stocks will be utilising the Strait of Georgia this year as opposed to recent years when they were distributed predominately outside the Strait. This change in distribution has the potential to increase impacts on interior Fraser coho from fishing activities in the Strait of Georgia and Johnstone Strait areas.

Due to the expected change in coho distribution in 2001, DNA results from recent years cannot be used to determine stock composition in-season. In-season updates on Thompson River coho mortalities will not possible because of stock composition uncertainties in 2001. As a result, an exploitation rate management approach will be used to estimate impacts from 2001 fisheries on Thompson River coho. The final estimated exploitation rate of Thompson River coho from 2001 fisheries will be confirmed in the 2001 post-season review. 7.3. Strait of Georgia Coho Strait of Georgia coho stocks are in a generally depressed state as well. With an expected inside distribution of coho this year, there are concerns for increased impacts on these stocks from fisheries in the Strait of Georgia and Johnstone Strait.

Management actions taken in fisheries to address Thompson River coho concerns will generally also benefit and provide protection to Strait of Georgia coho stocks. Fisheries that occur in the Strait of Georgia and Johnstone Strait areas will be monitored to ensure that these stocks receive protection. 7.4. West Coast Vancouver Island Chinook There are serious conservation concerns for WCVI Chinook in 2001 due to expected low returns. Of particular concern are age four (and older) fish which make up the majority of egg deposition for the spawning population.

2001 fisheries in Canadian waters have been planned to minimize impacts on WCVI chinook stocks, i.e. aggregate exploitation rate of up to 5 %. Canadian fisheries which have the potential to impact these stocks include: Area 1 and 2W recreational fisheries, northern commercial troll fisheries, recreational fisheries on the WCVI, commercial troll fisheries on the WCVI, and First Nations fisheries on the WCVI. 7.5. Nimpkish River Sockeye Nimpkish sockeye stocks have been in decline since the early to mid 1990s. They fell from a run size of over 300,000 fish to critically low numbers of less than 10,000 fish in recent years. This decline is attributed to poor ocean survival. The 2001 return for these stocks is again expected to be very poor. As a result, conservation measures include no commercial fisheries above Lewis Point until very late in July. As well, First Nations food, social and ceremonial use fisheries are subject to non-retention of sockeye during this time. Test fishery results have shown that the bulk of Nimpkish sockeye are in the Nimpkish River system by the end of July. This management measure has been in place for the past several years and has been effective in protecting these stocks.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 23 of 70 7.6. Fraser Summer Run Steelhead and Interior Fraser Steelhead Recent returns of Fraser Summer Run Steelhead and Interior Fraser Steelhead continue to be well below carrying capacity. Over the past decade, marine survival has been consistently below average, however returns in the summer and fall of 2000 suggest that marine survival improved for smolts that migrated to sea in 1998. Early indications of two ocean year returns to a winter run indicator stock suggest that marine survival for the 1999 smolt year will again return to the low levels observed through most of the 1990’s. Therefore, low productivity is expected to persist in 2001.

The province of B.C. has raised a number of concerns and recommendation regarding steelhead stocks.

In general, fisheries that target or potentially intercept steelhead should continue to be managed conservatively for the 2001 season. Consequently, the cumulative fishing rate from all fisheries is a general concern.

Specific management issues raised by the province of B.C. for the 2001 season follow below. 7.6.1. First Nations Fisheries The level of steelhead harvest in those fisheries that occur in the overwintering and spawning areas remains too uncertain given reduced productivity levels. In-river fisheries targeting mixed stocks that contain small stocks (i.e. fisheries in the Fraser mainstrem from Agassiz to Bridge River Rapids) should be constrained if possible. Fisheries targeting chinook salmon in the Fraser from Agassiz to Bridge River Rapids should be managed to avoid steelhead mortalities as much as possible. For Fraser River fisheries that target early timed sockeye in areas down stream of Sawmill Creek, catch monitoring should be improved so that Early Summer Run component of the steelhead by-catch can be estimated. Methods of avoiding Early Summer Run Steelhead by-catch should be explored. Fraser River fisheries targeting chum salmon should continue to be managed with the objective of minimizing interception of non- target steelhead. Gill net fisheries in the Fraser mainstem in October and early November should be managed to avoid steelhead by-catch. 7.6.2. Commercial Fisheries Steelhead conservation rules in the commercial Fraser Chum Management Plan should remain in effect for the 2001 season. Steelhead conservation rules in the Nitinat Chum Management Plan should also remain in effect for the 2001 season. Changes to the Chum Clockwork Management Strategy should address conservation of steelhead as much as possible. In particular, changes to the Chum Clockwork Management Strategy should be made in manner that does not increase the future frequency of US non-treaty fisheries in Areas 6, 7 and 7a as these fisheries could intercept significant proportion of the Interior Fraser Steelhead return.

Page 24 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 7.6.3. Recreational Fisheries Steelhead conservation rules for the Thompson River recreational fishery should remain in effect for the 2001 season.

8. RESEARCH

8.1. Development of Biological and Fishery Reference Points Reference Points include “Limit” Reference Points and “Target” Reference Points and generally are specific levels of abundance that serve as decision points for pre-determined fisheries management actions. For example, in Pacific salmon fisheries the Limit Reference Point is commonly taken as the level of abundance below which no directed ocean fishing takes place. The department’s Stock Assessment Division is in the process of developing suites of Reference Points for all major stock aggregates including the production groups of Fraser sockeye, Rivers and Smith Inlet sockeye, enhanced and wild Skeena River sockeye and the coho stocks of concern in the Thompson and upper Skeena Rivers. This work will evolve over a number of years as the Wild Salmon Policy is fully developed and implemented. 8.2. Total Fishing Mortality In most fisheries the number of fish that are killed is larger than the recorded “catch”. This is particularly so in hook-and-line fisheries like recreational fisheries and commercial trolling. Some fish that are hooked “drop-off” before they are landed and some of those fish die as a result. Determining the true impacts of all fisheries, including mark-only fisheries is required by the PST. Fisheries and Oceans Canada is continuing to develop monitoring programs to effectively assess the impacts of fisheries on wild stocks. One of these programs involves looking for coded-wire tags (CWT) in hatchery fish. Observer programs that have been much in evidence throughout southern B.C. fisheries are continuing to collect information about coho encounters so the efficacy of fisheries restrictions in protecting Thompson coho can be determined. 8.3. Evaluation of Selective Fishing Experiments Fisheries and Oceans Canada has been working with fishers of all sectors to find ways to fish selectively. Fishing selectively involves fishing in ways that avoid catching non-target species or stocks but also in minimizing the number of non-target species or stocks that are killed. A large number of selective fishing experiments have been conducted over the past few years and all of this experience must be collected, summarized and critically evaluated to determine what approaches should be adopted or investigated further. The stock assessment group is pursuing this evaluation and will present the results for deliberation at 2001 Pacific Scientific Advice Review Committee (PSARC) meetings. 8.3.1. Continued Development of Selective Hatchery Mark Fisheries In Southern B.C., and much of Washington and Oregon, all hatchery coho and chinook have been marked by removing their adipose fin. The stock assessment group within

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 25 of 70 Fisheries and Oceans Canada is continuing to develop the necessary monitoring programs to evaluate the effectiveness of selective hatchery mark fisheries in protecting wild chinook and coho.

For further information regarding research subjects visit our web-site at:

www-sci.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/english/default.htm

9. SPECIAL MANAGEMENT ZONES

In order to achieve conservation objectives for coho and other stocks of concern, Special Management Zones (SMZ) will be established again in 2001. These will be similar to the areas established in 2000. Remaining areas of the South Coast and Fraser River have been designated as “Yellow Zones”. It should be noted that some of these areas are designated as SMZ at times during the year. A description of both yellow zones and SMZ follows. 9.1. Yellow Zones (Non-prevalent Areas) Yellow Zones are defined as those areas and times when Thompson coho or other salmon stocks of concern are not prevalent. Fisheries in these areas must be selective and be conducted in a manner that minimizes the encounters and by-catch mortality of non-target species or stocks. Limited coho retention opportunities in First Nations and recreational fisheries will be permitted in some Yellow Zone areas. These are generally terminal areas where surplus stocks are identified, or local stocks are sufficiently healthy to support some level of harvest, and there is a low risk to stocks of concern.

In southern B.C. the Yellow Zones in 2001 include:

a) Area 11: Subareas 11-3 to 11-10 (Seymour Inlet). b) Area 16: That portion of Subarea 16-1 (Halfmoon Bay) northerly of a line from the most southern tip of Jeddah Point to the most western tip of the unnamed island at Coopers Green Park, and that portion of Subarea 16-5 southerly of a line between Four Mile Point and Carlson Point (southern portion of Sechelt Inlet). c) Area 20: That portion of Area 20 shoreward of a line from Woods Nose to Thrasher Cove (Port San Juan). This is the same boundary as in 2000. d) Area 23: That portion of Area 23 shoreward of the inner boundary described for chinook conservation corridor. e) Area 24: That portion of Area 24 shoreward of the inner boundary of the chinook conservation corridor. This is similar to the boundary used in 2000. f) Areas 25 and 26: Inside portions of Area 25 where salmon fishing is permitted. g) Area 27: That portion of Area 27 inside a line from Montgomery Point to the eastern entrance of Gooding Cove. This is the same boundary as in 2000. h) Area 28: Subareas 28-6 to 28-9, described as those waters bounded by a line from the Point Atkinson Light southerly to the fishing boundary sign at Point Grey and westerly of the

Page 26 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan First Narrows (Lion’s Gate) Bridge (Burrard Inlet) and portions of Subareas 28-11 and 28-12 as per the Tidal Water guide. i) Area 29: The yellow zone boundary description for a portion of Subarea 29-1 (mouth of Chapman Creek area) is currently under review and will be announced in-season following consultation. j) Special Management Zones outside of the restrictive time periods identified below. For example, the WCVI, Juan de Fuca Strait, Strait of Georgia and Johnstone Strait areas will be designated a Special Management Zone during that portion of the year when Thompson coho or WCVI chinook are prevalent, but will revert to a Yellow Zone in the Fall after the stocks of concern are no longer prevalent in this region.

Other Yellow Zone areas and recreational coho fishing opportunities may be identified in- season. These areas will be confirmed in-season by Fishery Notices. 9.2. Special Management Zones for Southern B.C. Coho SMZ are areas where special management restrictions apply. SMZ in southern B.C., in 2001, are typically those areas and times where Thompson River coho or other coho stocks of concern are prevalent. In 2001, there will be non-retention of wild coho in the recreational fishery in all SMZ. In some areas a recreational selective hatchery mark coho fishery will be permitted during specific times. Fishing for other salmon species within Special Management Zones will be permitted in some areas. In other areas, fishing for finfish species other than salmon and the harvest of shellfish only will be permitted. Monitoring of the fishery will be conducted within Special Management Zones to determine coho encounter rates. In locations where it is determined that coho encounters are deemed too high, the fishery will be moved or closed.

SMZ include the following waters for the 2001/2002 season:

a) WCVI: Areas 23 to 27, and 123 to 127 (except as described below). May 1 to September 30. b) Johnstone Strait and the mainland inlets: Areas 11, 12 and 13, May 1 to September 30 (except August 1 to September 30 in Subareas 11-3 to 11-10 as described under Yellow Zones). c) Strait of Georgia: Areas 14 to 18 and Area 28 (excluding Burrard Inlet). May 1 to September 30. d) Southern Vancouver Island: Areas 19, 20 (except as described above), 21 and 121. May 1 to September 30 e) Area 29, August 31 to October 15.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 27 of 70 9.3. 2001 Fraser River Special Management Zone Coho Conservation Measures Historical CWT data and DNA sampling indicate that Thompson and upper Fraser River coho are present in the lower Fraser River from late-August until mid-October. SMZ during the following periods will guide the implementation of fishery management actions in the Fraser River to protect Thompson coho and upper Fraser River coho:

Fraser River - below Mission August 31 to October 15 Fraser River - Mission to Hope September 05 to October 18 Fraser River - Hope to Sawmill Creek September 08 to October 21 Fraser River - Sawmill Creek to Lytton September 14 to December 31 Fraser River - Lytton to Williams Lake September 21 to December 31 Fraser River - Upstream of Williams Lake September 30 to December 31 Thompson River - Upstream to the outlet of Kamloops Lake September 14 to December 31 Thompson River - Upstream of Kamloops Lake September 25 to December 31

During these times fishing would be restricted to be very limited selective and experimental fisheries. 9.4. Special Management Measures for West Coast of Vancouver Island Chinook Conservation concerns for chinook that originates from the WCVI will require stringent management measures in 2001 to protect these stocks. These restrictions are similar to those implemented in 2000 and in some cases are more restrictive.

Special restrictions in the recreational fishery include a combination of a conservation corridor where no salmon fishing is permitted, reduced bag limits where in some areas the retention of chinook greater than 77 cm in length is not permitted, and specific closures where salmon fishing is not permitted. In the First Nations fishery on the WCVI, fishing activities during the time period when WCVI chinook are present will be conducted during times and areas that will minimize impacts on this stock. In the commercial fishery off the WCVI, fishing activities will be restricted during times and in areas where WCVI chinook are present. These restrictions will be implemented as of July 15 north of Estevan Point and August 1 south of Estevan Point. Refer to Appendix 3 for more details.

10. 2001 CONSULTATION OVERVIEW

10.1. South Coast Area First Nations Salmon Consultation Record In June 2000, the department released a discussion document on “A Framework for Improved Decision Making in the Pacific Salmon Fishery”. The discussion document focused on the need for an improved harvest management advisory process in addition to moving forward with the

Page 28 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan establishment of a Pacific Fisheries Allocation and Licensing Advisory Board and a Policy Forum. The document has been the subject of consultation for the past several months with a final report to the Minister expected in May 2001.

The following consultation review reflects work done in 2001 to develop the 2001 IFMP and does not attempt to deal with the larger review of decision-making in the salmon fishery.

The discussion paper and information on the consultation review is available through the internet at:

www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/english/consult/decision.htm

The department undertakes consultation with First Nations in ongoing bi-lateral and/or multi- First Nation processes. Fisheries and Oceans Canada has met with a number of First Nations bands and groups from west and east Vancouver Island and the lower and upper Fraser River.

Initial consultations started in October 2000 with some groups to discuss preliminary post- season information and to begin discussions and provide preliminary information on the 2001 season.

In December and January consultations included a detailed review of the 2000 season and preliminary discussion on the 2001 salmon outlook and First Nations fishing plans.

Consultations during the February to April time period were mainly focused on developing First Nations fishing plans, as well providing information on proposed recreational and commercial fishing plans that have the potential to impact on First Nations fisheries. The implementation of selective fishing techniques was also discussed in some areas where these measures are required to protect stocks of concern.

First Nations have raised a number of concerns over the course of consultation on the 2001 fishing plan. These concerns include:

a) Concerns for early-timed chinook stocks; especially stocks returning to the Nicola and Chilcotin Rivers. b) Low water in the Fraser River and warm water temperatures will cause high pre-spawn mortalities during early Stuart and early summer migration. Therefore management measures to protect these stocks need to be considered. c) Late run sockeye stocks returning in 2001 are forecast to return in low numbers. At the same in recent years we have experienced significant levels of pre-spawn mortality. Many First Nations have raised questions about how to provide protection for this important stock.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 29 of 70 d) It is expected that there will be significant numbers of summer run sockeye returning in 2001. First Nations have raised concerns about minimizing impacts on the other early and late timed sockeye stocks while harvesting the expected surplus of summer run sockeye. Concerns for these other stocks may lead to shortfalls in obtaining food, social and ceremonial use requirements.

Bilateral and multi-First Nations consultations with Fisheries and Oceans Canada will continue to occur in-season to develop fishing plans and seek co-operation where specific stock and conservation concerns may exist. 10.2. Recreational Consultation in Southern B.C. Recreational consultation took place as a bilateral process between recreational representatives and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Generally the process begins at small local area boards comprised of local representatives from the recreational fishing community and the department. Issues of concern and recommendations are then forwarded to subcommittee groups (North and South) comprised of representatives from local area boards. Finally the larger and more regional issues are tabled at the main Sport Fishing Advisory Board (SFAB) comprised of members of the subcommittees province-wide. The SFAB mainly deals with fishing plan recommendations and issues that affect recreational fishers on a province-wide basis. Most local fishing plan recommendations and issues are dealt with primarily through the local board or at the sub-committee level.

The SFAB process provides the department with fishing plan recommendations for the recreational fishery.

The local committees, subcommittees and the main SFAB meet with the department at least twice a year. The main SFAB normally meets in the November and December and again in the April and May time period. The local and subcommittee meetings precede the main SFAB meeting dates.

This process was used in planning for the 2001 salmon season. 10.3. Commercial Consultation in Southern B.C. Consultation with this sector generally occured as a multi-stakeholder process (the Southern B.C. Advisory Committee) with representatives meeting twice a year to review the previous season and develop a fishing plan for the upcoming year. These consultations are followed up by bilateral meetings to discuss outstanding issues and completion of fishing plans.

This committee has representation from WCVI community organizations, salmon processors, recreational organizations, the Province of British Columbia and First Nations, as well as advisors representing Area B, Area D, Area E, Area G and Area H licence holders. The Area B advisors include representatives from the processing sector, the Fishing Vessel Owners Association of B.C., the Native Brotherhood of B.C., the Aboriginal Vessel Owners

Page 30 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Association and the Seafood Council. The Area D Salmon Gillnet Association and the Pacific Gill Net Association (PGA) primarily represent Area D. Area E is represented by the Area E Association and the PGA. Area G is represented by a number of different groups, including the Area G Troll Fishery Association, Pacific Trollers Association (PTA), the Westcoast Sustainability Association, the UFAWU, and representatives from the processing sector and the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council (NTC). The Gulf Trollers Association represents Area H.

Southern B.C. Advisory meetings were held in January and April 2001. In January, the 2000 season salmon catch and escapements were reviewed, 2001 salmon forecasts were reviewed, and breakout discussions by gear type were held. The breakout discussions focused on reviewing problems that occurred in the 2000 season, solutions to the problems and issues for the upcoming season.

The April meeting was held to discuss 2001 catch monitoring requirements and development of the 2001 fishing plans. Fishing plans developed are subject to in-season changes in response to salmon run strength, timing and conservation objectives for stocks of concern.

In-season advisory committees are established to discuss any requirements for in-season changes to the fishing plan.

11. 2001 SOUTHERN B.C./FRASER RIVER FIRST NATIONS FISHING PLAN

First Nations access to salmon for food, social, and ceremonial purposes is managed through Communal Licences. These licences set out the species and target harvest levels by First Nations group. Dates, times and locations where harvesting may occur, acceptable gear types, and other conditions are described in these licences. Communal Licences can be amended in-season for resource conservation purposes.

The Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy (AFS) seeks to provide for the effective management and regulation of the First Nations fisheries through negotiation of mutually acceptable and time-limited Fisheries Agreements. If an agreement cannot be mutually concluded, a communal fishing licence to fish for food, social and ceremonial purposes similar to previous arrangements is issued.

Anticipated harvest targets for Communal Licences in the Fraser River and South Coast of B.C. are outlined below. Note that actual numbers of fish on communal licences are still in negotiation, therefore the numbers listed below are subject to change. Actual catches will be dependent on, among other factors, in-season assessments of actual stock strength and management measures taken to ensure conservation of individual stocks.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 31 of 70 11.1. Communal Licence Harvest Targets South Coast Lower Fraser Middle/ Total Upper Fraser Sockeye · Fraser River 250,000 400,000 400,000 1,050,000 · Non-Fraser 20,000 1,000 0 21,000 River Coho 43,000 0 0 43,000 Pink 60,000 0 0 60,000 Chum 155,000 6,500 500 162,000 Chinook 34,000 12,000 18,000 64,000

Total Salmon 562,000 419,500 418,500 1,400,000 11.2. Pilot Sales Through agreements made between Fisheries and Oceans Canada and certain First Nations groups, communities are authorized to sell specified amounts of fish subject to conservation needs and to agreed monitoring, enforcement and management regimes. Pilot sales only apply where agreements setting out the regimes are in place. These agreements are negotiated on an annual basis and are consistent with the Allocation Policy. Pilot sales are a matter of Ministerial policy.

Harvest limits set out in pilot sales agreements are negotiated based on historical catches and Departmental management strategies. In addition, allocations to the groups involved in pilot sales have been augmented in the Fraser and Somass River fisheries through retirement of a number of commercial salmon fishing licences. In all areas, the total amount of harvest depends on the strength of the fish stocks. Monitoring of First Nations fisheries is carried out by trained First Nations fishery guardians in co-operation with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 11.2.1. Lower Fraser River Pilot Sales Fisheries Pilot sales agreements with Lower Fraser River First Nations have generally been divided into fisheries above and below the Port Mann Bridge, but include those First Nations located on the Fraser River from the mouth to Sawmill Creek.

There have been no pilot sales agreements in place with First Nations’ communities upstream of the Port Mann Bridge since 1998. Below the Port Mann Bridge, agreements have been in place on an annual basis since the early 1990’s, with the exception of 1998.

First Nations below the Port Mann Bridge include Musqueam, Tsawwassen, and Burrard. First Nations above the Port Mann Bridge include Kwayquitlam, Katzie, Chehalis, Peters, Yale and bands of the Sto:Lo Nation.

Page 32 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Sockeye stocks in 2001 are expected be strong enough to support pilot sales fisheries, however, opportunities may be limited due to weak co-migrating returns.

Negotiations regarding possible pilot sales fisheries in the lower Fraser River are currently underway. Details of final arrangements will be available in season if agreements are reached. 11.2.2. Somass Food and Sale (Pilot Sale) Fishery This fishery involving the Hupacasath and Tseshaht First Nations began in 1992 and harvests sockeye, coho chum and chinook salmon annually, dependant on run sizes and conservation concerns. The long-term objective for sockeye is to harvest an average of 55,000 sockeye. This is achieved through the Somass Sockeye Management Plan that allocates more sockeye at higher run sizes. Allocations for other species are negotiated annually based on forecasts.

The fishery takes place in upper Alberni Inlet and the tidal portion of the Somass River utilizing gill nets and drag (beach) seines. No power assisted fishing gear is permitted and net length is regulated by area: maximum 20 fathoms in the lower river, maximum 40 fathoms inside Polly Point and maximum 100 fathoms seaward to Ten Mile Point. All fish caught must be validated at designated landing sites. A fishery management and enforcement committee develops a management plan at the beginning of the season meets regularly to make inseason changes based on run size estimate and catch-to-date.

Sockeye catch in this fishery has averaged approximately 41,000 since its inception. Recent year returns have been below average. The chinook catch has averaged over 10,000 but due to recent conservation concerns, no pilot sales fishing opportunities for chinook have been provided in the past two years.

A pilot sales fishery on Somass sockeye is anticipated in 2001, negotiations are currently underway for this fishery and plans will be finalized prior to the commencement of the fishing season.

12. SOUTHERN B.C./FRASER RIVER RECREATIONAL FISHING PLAN

The recreational harvest of salmon is regulated by the British Columbia Sport Fishing Regulations, 1996 made under the Fisheries Act. The regulations are summarized in the 2001 to 2003 British Columbia Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Guide and 2001 to 2003 British Columbia Freshwater Salmon Supplement which lists closed times/area, daily limits and size limits (where applicable). Unlike the commercial fishery, recreational fisheries are open unless closed by Variation Orders.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 33 of 70 Information in Variation Orders, including changes to this 2001 fishing plan, will be communicated through Fishery Notices, media reports, telephone information lines and postings on the Pacific Region Fisheries and Oceans web site at: www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

In-season information can also be obtained by calling the Talking Yellow Pages numbers (refer to the department Contacts section of this plan).

For more information on tidal water fishing for salmon, see the 2001/2003 British Columbia Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Guide, available free of charge with the purchase of a B.C.TWSF licence, or online at: www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/english/recreation/sfg0001/default.htm

The fishery notice system can also be accessed online at: www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fnsreports/rptmain.cfm

12.1. Key Information for 2001 Conservation measures for the protection of coho stocks of concern will be similar to those implemented in the 2000 fishery (i.e. Special Management Zones, barbless hooks in all salmon fisheries, non-retention of coho except in areas and during times where stocks of concern are not impacted).

Conservation measures for WCVI chinook will be similar to those implemented in 2000 and in some cases more restrictive. 12.2. Special Management Measures for West Coast of Vancouver Island Chinook Conservation concerns for chinooks that originate from the WCVI will require continued management measures in 2001 to protect these stocks. The management objective in 2001 is to minimize mortality on WCVI chinook in all Canadian fisheries (i.e. exploitation rate up to 5% on these stocks). Conservation measures for this stock will affect fisheries in northern B.C. from June to September, and will affect fisheries along the Northwest coast of Vancouver Island from mid July through September, and in the Southwest coast of Vancouver Island from August through mid-October. These new measures are subject to change in-season if additional conservation concerns develop.

Page 34 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan On the WCVI, a “conservation corridor” will continue to be implemented in Areas 21 to 24 (from Carmanah Point to Estevan Point) to protect WCVI chinook. Due to the presence of WCVI chinook, fishing for all species of salmon will be prohibited as of specific dates within this conservation corridor. The inner boundary of this conservation corridor is generally defined as the surfline, and the outer boundary of the conservation corridor is generally a line one nautical mile seaward of the surfline, with the exceptions described below. The actual surfline is as defined in the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations. No salmon fishing will be permitted within this conservation corridor in 2001 during the time period the corridor is in effect in each area.

In Areas 25 to 27 there will be no conservation corridor, however restrictions in these Areas will include specific closed areas and non-retention of chinook over 77 cm in length in the near shore areas that are open to salmon fishing.

The following describes the boundaries of the conservation corridor in Areas 21 through 24. 12.2.1. Details of Conservation Corridor 12.2.1.1. Description of Outer Boundary

The outer limit of the “conservation corridor” is defined as a line that:

Begins at 48°35.900’N 124°46.000’W seaward of Carmanah Point Then to 48°42.383’N 125°06.422’W seaward of Pachena Point Then to 48°46.610’N 125°14.210’W seaward of Cape Beale Then to 48°54.572’N 125°33.622’W seaward of Amphritrite Point Then to 49°05.100’N 125°54.647’W seaward of Cox Point Then to 49°10.283’N 126°04.792’W seaward of Blunden Point Then to 49°16.473’N 126°15.140’W seaward of Rafael Point Then to 49°20.008’N 126°17.188’W seaward of Sydney Islet Then to 49°23.807’N 126°24.483’W seaward of Hesquiat Point Then to 49°21.620’N 126°28.478’W southerly of Matlahaw Point Then to 49°22.280’N 126°33.767’W seaward of Estevan Point

This line is approximately one nautical mile seaward of the surfline. The surfline is defined in the Pacific Fishery Management Area Regulations.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 35 of 70 12.3. Chinook Bag limits and Additional Closed Area Restrictions

12.3.1. Area 20 (Subareas 20-1 to 20-3) Two per day all year except between August 1 to September 30, two per day, but only 1 over 77 cm west of Sombrio Point. Spot closure boundaries near the entrance to Port San Juan are still under discussion and will be finaized in-season. This closure will take effect August 1 to September 30. 12.3.2. Areas 21 and 22 Two per day until August 1 then no salmon fishing in the Chinook Conservation Corridor until October 15. In Areas 21and 22 where salmon fishing is permitted the daily limit is two but none may be over 77 cm. 12.3.3. Areas 23 and 24 Two per day until August 1 then no fishing for chinook shoreward of the conservation corridor until October 15. Regular time and area closures also in effect. 12.3.4. Areas 121, 123 and 124 Two per day to August 1 then two per day, only one over 77 cm (August 1 to September 30) seaward of the corridor. Corridor in effect from August 1 to October 15 (includes Pacheena Bay). 12.3.5. Areas 25 to 27 Two per day until July 15, then in the areas open to retention of salmon the daily limit is two, but no fish may be over 77 cm until October 1, except in a portion of Subarea 25- 4 where one fish over 77 cm will be permitted in the daily limit of two. In Area 25 a series of no salmon-fishing areas and spot closures will be implemented in Nootka Sound until August 7, and in Esperanza Inlet and inside waters until October 1. In Kyuquot Sound (Area 26) a spot closure will be implemented adjacent to the Northwest side of Spring Island. The inner part of Area 26 is closed to salmon as of August 1. In Quatsino Sound inside Cliff Point chinook retention is prohibited after August 1. Also a Spot Closure will be implemented within a half-mile radius of the light on Kaines Island from July 15 to September 30. 12.3.6. Areas 125 to 127 Up to July 15, the daily limit is two chinook over 45 cm. From July 15 to September 30 the daily limit outside of a line one mile beyond the surfline is two but only one over 77 cm. Inside the line the daily limit is two but none may be over 77 cm.

These measures are subject to change in-season if additional conservation concerns develop.

Conservation measures to protect the early-timed (i.e. early Stuart and early summer stock groupings) and late timed Fraser River sockeye stocks may also be required.

Page 36 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan This will likely require non-retention of sockeye in most Southern B.C. waters until late July and possibly late August (details to be announced in-season).

Some spot closures remain in effect in southern B.C. waters. See the British Columbia Tidal Waters Sport Fishing Guide for further details concerning all of these spot closures, and in-season announcements for confirmation of the spot closures that are removed for 2001. 12.4. Selective Hatchery Mark Coho Fishing Opportunities Selective hatchery mark coho fisheries in the recreational fishery are planned in some of the outside marine areas targeting on coho stocks present which have a hatchery mark (removed adipose fin). Selective hatchery mark fisheries also will occur in some terminal areas where there is a surplus of coho or a surplus is expected. Terminal surpluses are usually in areas where there are hatchery facilities.

Selective hatchery mark coho fishing opportunities will be similar to those that were implemented in 2000. On the WCVI, effective August 1, the retention of two hatchery mark (adipose clipped) coho will be permitted in Areas 123 to 127 outside of the conservation closure. In the Johnstone Strait and Strait of Georgia area, effective August 1, the retention of two hatchery mark coho will be permitted in Areas 13 and 14. In Juan de Fuca Strait (Area 20), effective October 1, the retention of two hatchery mark coho will be permitted. Consideration may be given to an earlier start date (July 1) and expansion of areas after further analysis of coho distribution information. Further details on this fishery will be announced in- season.

In the Fraser River, a selective hatchery mark coho fishery during daylight hours only is being considered for both the tidal and non-tidal waters. Analysis of a number of options continues and details will be confirmed in-season. 12.5. Terminal Coho Fishing Opportunities

12.5.1. Johnstone Strait, Strait of Georgia and Fraser River There will also be opportunities for fisheries on surplus hatchery mark coho in several terminal areas such as Burrard Inlet, Sechelt Inlet, Halfmoon Bay, the mouth of Chapman Creek in the vicinity of the mouth of the Qualicum River, and possibly Bute Inlet. Opportunities for coho will also be available in several non-tidal waters including Capilano River, Chehalis River, Chilliwack River, and in Chapman Creek. In non-tidal waters, there are specific regulations for salmon by river and/or tributary which are available in the Salmon Supplement to the Freshwater Synopsis published by the department. 12.5.2. West Coast Vancouver Island Local WCVI coho stocks are showing signs of improvement. The 2001 return is expected to provide some limited fishing opportunities to most Areas.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 37 of 70 In portions of Area 20 (Port San Juan only), and Areas 23, 24, 25 and 27 where salmon fishing is permitted the daily bag limit will be two coho effective July 1. In Areas 23, 24 and 25, of the two coho daily bag limit, only one coho can be a wild (unmarked) coho.

13. SOUTHERN B.C./FRASER RIVER COMMERCIAL FISHING PLAN

Openings indicated in this plan are not guaranteed and are dependent on the actual abundance of salmon that return in 2001. Catches are limited by conservation concerns, domestic allocations and stock abundance. In-season changes will be announced by Notices to Industry.

In 2001, there continues to be conservation concerns for Thompson River and Strait of Georgia coho stocks. In addition, serious conservation concerns exist WCVI chinook stocks.

As in 1999 and 2000, management measures to protect stocks of concern will include closure of fisheries in areas and times where stocks of concern are prevalent, and mandatory selective fishing techniques will continue to be implemented.

There will be continued coho non-retention and non-possession during all commercial fisheries. It is illegal to land coho from all areas. In some fisheries, fishers may be required to release live chinook and/or steelhead. These details will be announced in weekly Fishery Notices.

Due to serious conservation concerns, no targeted fisheries on WCVI chinook stocks will take place in 2001, and restrictions on commercial fisheries that incidentally impact WCVI chinook are expected.

Fraser River sockeye are expected to return much stronger than the previous three years and should provide for commercial fishing opportunities. However, the conservation of Thompson River coho and early and late run Fraser River sockeye will restrict the window of time in which fishing on summer stocks can occur. Water-level concerns may also have some impact on the commercial opportunities available.

In 2001, Fisheries and Oceans will once again be seeking the co-operation of fishers in minimizing fishing activities in Robson Bight. This is part of a long-term management plan to afford protection to the killer whale populations that frequent this area during periods from mid May to early October. Fishers are requested not to moor in the Bight area until 24 hours prior to any fishery being announced for that respective gear type. Information on this management initiative can be obtained from Department charter vessels on the grounds and from Fisheries and Oceans Canada offices. 13.1. Selective Fishing Measures Fishers have been involved in a range of projects to test and evaluate the selectivity of various fishing techniques and gears since 1998. In 2001, selective fishing techniques will continue to be required by the conditions of licence in all southern B.C. salmon fisheries.

Page 38 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 13.1.1. Seine Selective Fishing Measures Seine vessels participating in the southern B.C. seine fisheries will be required as a condition of licence to:

a) Take on board an observer, as defined in the Fishery (General) Regulations, if requested to do so by the Regional Director-General of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. b) Brail all sets with the exception of Area B seine fisheries in Area 21 and Subareas 121-1 and 121-2 (Nitinat), and late chum cleanup in Area 14. c) Sort all fish caught before they are placed in the hold. d) Use a standardized brailer. In 2001, seines will be given the option of two brailer types, the standard brailer or a side-purse brailer. The specifications for the side- purse brailer are the same as allowed in 2000, and will be described as a condition of licence. e) Release all prohibited species to the water with the least possible harm. f) Use revival tanks to revive non-retention species (especially injured or stressed fish) prior to release. For large catches of by-catch species where it is not possible for all fish to be put in a revival tank, maximum use of these tanks is encouraged to assist in the recovery of stressed fish. g) Participate in a mandatory logbook program and fleet phone-in catch reporting program. This program will be used to assist in tracking target species catch as well as by-catch encounters.

In 2001, based on selective fishing experiments conducted to date, 15% release mortality for seines will be applied to seine fisheries in the South Coast. The only exception will be in Area 21 (Nitinat) where 20% will be applied due to weather factors and because vessels will be permitted to ramp their catch. 13.1.2. Gill Net Selective Fishing Measures Gill net vessels participating in fisheries in southern B.C. will be required as a condition of licence to:

a) Take on board an observer, as defined in the Fishery (General) Regulations, if requested to do so by the Regional Director-General of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. b) Sort all fish caught immediately; (suggest cutting meshes to release prohibited species or fish that are going to be released, i.e. coho, chinook or steelhead). c) Release all prohibited species to the water with the least possible harm. d) Area E and Area D are required to have 60-minute maximum duration of sets. The only exception to this fishing practice will be in the Fraser River and late chum fisheries in Area 14 and Area 21 (see Conditions of Licence for details).

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 39 of 70 e) Use revival tanks to revive non-retention species (especially injured or stressed fish) prior to release. In 2001 two different types of revival tanks are permitted. The revival tank shall meet the specifications for one of the two options. f) Participate in a mandatory logbook program and fleet phone-in catch reporting program. This program will be used to assist in tracking target species catch as well as by-catch encounters. g) Area D gill net fishers will be permitted to use 90 mesh deep nets during the Johnstone Strait sockeye and chum fisheries (July 1 to December 31). During this time period, gill net mesh may be either traditional multi-strand, “Alaska Twist”, or a combination of the two. h) Area D gill net fishers will be required to use the new modified revival tank and 45 minute sets in Subareas 11-1, 11-2 and 12-12 from July 1 to December 31. i) During Barkley Sound/Alberni Inlet sockeye fisheries, gill net mesh may be traditional multi-strand, “Alaska Twist” or a combination of the two. If 60 mesh deep gill nets are not effective in catching sockeye in Alberni Inlet (Subareas 23-1 to 23-3), in-season consideration will be given for the use of up to 120 mesh deep nets. j) During Barkley Sound/Alberni Inlet sockeye fisheries, gill nets are encouraged to place a minimum of five additional white floats approximately 12 inches in diameter spaced evenly along their corklines. The purpose is to make the nets more visible and to reduce the incidence of recreational boaters running into nets. k) Only 60 mesh deep traditional mullti-strand nets will be permitted in the mainland inlets (Area 12 and 13). l) For Nootka chum fisheries only 60 mesh deep traditional multi-strand nets will be permitted. Consideration is being given to testing 60 mesh Alaska Twist nets in 2001 in Nootka and Strait of Georgia terminal chum fisheries to compare chum rates of catch and by-catch rates on non-target species. m) Area E fishers at Nitinat will be permitted to use either traditional multi-strand or “Alaska Twist” mesh for chum fisheries. The department intends to implement a minimum depth weed-line for Nitinat fisheries in 2001. Fleet representatives and the Province will be consulted and a decision announced by late spring. n) In 2001, based on selective fishing experiments conducted to date, a 60% release mortality rate will be applied to gill net fisheries in the South Coast. For vessels operating with the revised revival tank and reduced set times, a 40% assigned mortality is being considered. 13.1.3. Troll Selective Fishing Measures Troll vessels participating in the Area G and Area H fishery will be required as a condition of licence to:

a) Take on board an observer, as defined in the Fishery (General) Regulations, if requested to do so by the Regional Director-General of Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Page 40 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan b) Use single barbless hooks during all fisheries. “Barbless hook” includes a barbed hook, the barb of which has been compressed so that it is in complete contact with the shaft of the hook. c) Release all prohibited species to the water with the least possible harm. d) Use revival tanks to revive non-retention species (especially injured or stressed fish) prior to release. In 2001 two different types of revival tanks are permitted. The revival tank shall meet the specifications for one of the two options. e) Participate in a mandatory logbook program and fleet phone-in catch reporting program. This program will be used to assist in tracking target species catch as well as by-catch encounters. f) A satellite catch monitoring experiment is currently being developed for Area G troll fisheries in 2001. The objective of this experiment is to develop technology that will improve catch reporting capabilities for this fleet particularly during fisheries off the WCVI.

In 2001, based on selective fishing experiments conducted to date, 15% release mortality rate will be applied to troll fisheries in the South Coast. 13.1.4. Revival Tank Design and Other Selective Fishing Measures The purpose of the revival tank is to hold and revive those species of salmon, including coho and steelhead, which the vessel is prohibited from retaining.

The minimum revival tank requirements for seine vessels are:

a) construction of non-transparent material; b) minimum inside dimensions of 90 cm x 49 cm and must be designed to hold a minimum of 250 litres of water. c) a tight fitting lid; d) a pump capable of continuously delivering clean seawater to the tank; and e) the revival tank must be filled with water and there must be a constant exchange of sea water at any time the vessel is fishing or has prohibited species on-board.

In 2001, two different types of revival tanks are permitted for all gill net and troll vessels participating in commercial salmon fisheries. The revival tank shall meet the specifications for one of the two options listed below:

Option 1 (same requirements as 2000):

a) constructed of non-transparent material; b) minimum inside dimensions of 90 cm x 40 cm x 40 cm; c) a tight fitting lid; and d) designed so as to receive a continuous flow of oxygenated water to the tank

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 41 of 70 Option 2 (new option for 2001):

a) constructed of non-transparent material; b) minimum inside dimensions of 100 cm x 40 cm x 40 cm; c) minimum of two separate compartments 20 cm in width; d) a tight fitting lid made of non-transparent material; e) a pump capable of continuously delivering a minimum flow rate of 0.6 litres per second to each compartment of the tank; f) a separate inlet and outlet for each compartment; and g) each compartment shall have a release mechanism that would allow revived fish to released with being handled.

The revival tank(s) and equipment must be kept clean and in operable condition and shall be used for no other purpose than that outlined above.

Construction drawings, additional details of the specifications and instructions for achieving the most effective results with the new revival tank design summarized in Option 2 above are available from the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/fishmgmt.htm 13.2. Harvest Plan Details The following section outlines the details of anticipated fishing opportunities for the commercial fleet in southern B.C. Commercial openings will occur only if sufficient TAC is available for the commercial fleet, and if managers are confident that harvest levels will be as consistent as possible with allocation policies and conservation objectives. Fishery openings, timings and duration listed below are not guaranteed, and are subject to change based on in-season abundance and timing information. 13.2.1. South Coast Net 13.2.1.1. Johnstone Strait - Areas 11 to 13

Anticipated Opportunities for Johnstone Strait Net Fisheries – Area 11 to 13

Effective Date Area Action Early to Late July Areas 11 to 13 All areas remain closed to protect Fraser River Early Stuart and early summer run stocks and Nimpkish River sockeye.

Early August to Mid Area 12 Area 12, mainland inlet pink: Troll and August seine test vessels may be employed to identify any surplus pink stocks and potential fishing opportunities. Boundaries

Page 42 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Effective Date Area Action to be determined in-season; coho sensitive areas will remain closed.

Late July to Early Areas 11 to 13 Possible gill net opening for two to four August days. Window closures are being considered to protect early summer stocks. I f implemented, these window closures will be determined pre-season. Fishing duration will be determined by in-season abundance, TAC and conservation requirements. The fishing area may be reduced to avoid coho encounters. Exact boundaries to be determined in-season.

Possible seine opening for one to two days (first week of fishing) on summer run sockeye stocks. The amount of fishing time to be determined by in-season abundance estimates, available TAC and conservation requirements. The fishing area may be reduced to avoid coho encounters. Exact boundaries to be determined in-season.

All gill net and seine fishing will begin below Lewis Point to protect Nimpkish sockeye stocks until the end of July

Early August to Mid Areas 11 to 13 Possible gill net opening for two to five August days (second week of fishing) on summer run sockeye stocks. The amount of fishing time to be determined by in-season abundance estimates, available TAC and conservation requirements.

The fishing area may be reduced to avoid coho encounters. Exact boundaries to be determined in-season.

Possible seine opening for one to five days (second week of fishing) on summer run

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 43 of 70 Effective Date Area Action sockeye stocks. The amount of fishing time to be determined by in-season abundance estimates, available TAC and conservation requirements. The fishing area may be reduced to avoid coho encounters. Exact boundaries to be determined in-season.

Mid August to Late Areas 11 to 13 Late run sockeye abundance will likely be August a factor in limiting seine and gill net harvest opportunities for summer run stocks during this period. Low water conditions and high water temperatures in the Fraser River may reduce the net fishing opportunities in Johnstone Straits

Southern bound pinks are expected to be harvested only incidentally during sockeye fisheries.

Late August to Early Areas 11 to 13 No surplus is forecast for Fraser River September pinks, thus no directed fishery is planned in these areas.

Early to Late Areas 11 to 13 Closed to protect Fraser River late run September sockeye and migrating coho. No directed pink fisheries are expected. No chum assessment fishery is planned for late September.

Early October Areas 11 to 13 Chum Fishery: The preseason forecast is for a below average return. The Chum management strategy for this area is under review and the outcome will guide the management process for 2001. A limited fishery is scheduled for seine, gill net and troll gear in early October (to a maximum harvest rate of 10%). Further fishing opportunities will be identified based on in- season assessment programs Chum fishing opportunities in terminal areas will be

Page 44 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Effective Date Area Action determined in-season and discussed through the advisory process.

13.2.1.2. General Provisions

Areas of high coho encounters in Johnstone Straits may be closed. These boundaries will be reviewed in order to reduce coho encounters.

For early fisheries, the areas above Lewis Point (Subareas 12-5, 12-6, 12-8 and 12-9) will be closed to protect Nimpkish sockeye. It is not anticipated that the area above Lewis Point will be opened prior to very late in July to ensure the majority of Nimpkish sockeye reach the river. The date the area above Lewis Point will be opened is to be announced in-season.

Daylight only fisheries, or shortened days, may be considered for gill net fisheries in order to minimize coho encounters. It should be noted that daylight only fisheries for gill nets will be implemented for Subareas 11-1, 11-2 and 12-12 for the 2001 season. This area will be closely monitored for coho encounters.

Subarea 12-2 will open to fishing after Adam/Eve pinks stocks have cleared this sanctuary area and migrated upstream (estimated timing will be August 20 to 25).

For early fisheries conducted below Lewis Point, the seine ribbon boundary will run from Big Bay, Hanson Island instead of Cracroft Point.

If only small TAC is available for all commercial fleets, time and effort restrictions will be used to ensure catches are within allowable limits. 13.2.2. Strait of Georgia - Areas 14 to 18 Fraser sockeye fisheries in Area 16 may occur in 2001. This area may be used to provide opportunities for Area E gill net, and/or Area B seine fishers, to assist in achieving their allocations if they are unable to achieve them in their traditional areas. Exact boundaries to be determined in-season.

No seine fisheries are planned for Subarea 18-4 (Pender Bluffs) however seine fishing opportunities in this area may be required in order to assist in achieving allocation if this is not possible in traditional areas.

The potential for terminal fall chum fishing opportunities will be initiated as appropriate through in-season consultation with the Mid Vancouver Island Chum Advisory Committee.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 45 of 70 13.2.3. West Coast Vancouver Island - Areas 21 to 27 The preseason forecast for Barkley Sound sockeye permits for a limited commercial fishery. The anticipated pattern of commercial fisheries is summarized below.

Anticipated Opportunities for WCVI Net Fisheries – Areas 21 to 27

Effective Date Area Action Mid to late June Area 23 One day daylight gill net opening in portions of 23-4, 23-5 and 23-6 is likely.

Ongoing commercial fishing opportunities subject to in-season re-forecasting of run size. First run re-forecast scheduled for the third week of June.

Openings later than July 10 will likely be inside Alberni Inlet to conserve Henderson Lake sockeye.

Late September Area 25 Possible chum fishery for gill net only, one day per week, daylight only, in Subareas 25-7 and a portion of 25-6. Terminal fisheries in Tlupana Inlet dependant on identification of surplus chums.

Early October Area 21 and 121 No chum fishery is planned due to an expected poor return. An established management plan, based on achieving weekly escapement milestones into Nitinat Lake will determine fishing opportunities.

13.2.4. San Juan and Fraser River - Area 20 and 29 Anticipated Opportunities for San Juan and Fraser River – Area 20 and 29

Effective Date Area Action Early to Late July Area 20 Remain closed to protect Fraser River Early Stuart and Early Summer sockeye stocks.

Early to Late July Area 29 Remain closed to protect Fraser River

Page 46 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Effective Date Area Action Early Stuart and Early Summer sockeye stocks.

Early August to Late Area 20 Possible demonstration seine fishery in August early August on summer run stocks with restricted fleet size, strict selective fishing techniques and monitoring. Avoidance of coho, early and late run sockeye stocks, TAC and diversion rate will be factors determining available harvest opportunities on summer run stocks during this period.

Early August to Late Area 29 Commercial gill net fisheries are planned to August target on summer run Fraser sockeye. Avoidance of coho and early and late run sockeye stocks will likely be factors in determining harvest opportunities for summer run stocks during this period.

Late run sockeye abundance and environmental conditions (low water, high temperatures) will likely be a factor in limiting seine and gill net harvest opportunities for summer run stocks during this period.

Fraser River pink salmon are expected to be harvested only incidentally during sockeye fisheries. No directed fisheries are expected.

No fishing opportunities are planned in

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 47 of 70 Effective Date Area Action Area 29 after August 31 in order to protect Thompson River coho stocks.

No seine fisheries planned for Area 29, however, seine fishing opportunities in Area 29 may be required in order to assist in achieving allocation if this is not possible in traditional areas.

Early September to Area 20 Remains closed to protect Thompson mid October River coho and late run sockeye stocks.

Early September to Area 29 Fishing opportunities will not be available mid October due to Thompson River coho conservation concerns. Also, conservation requirements are expected for late run sockeye stocks.

Mid October to Area 29 Early-timed Fraser chum stocks are early November expected to return at an average abundance. Thompson and Chilko River steelhead conservation requirements will influence gill net chum fishery timing.

Early November to Area 29 Late-timed Fraser chum stocks are late November. expected to return at low abundance. Potential gill net fishing opportunities will be determined in-season.

The Fraser River Panel, in conjunction Fisheries and Ocean Canada, will develop Fraser River sockeye and pink fishing plans for the Panel Water areas. 13.3. Area G Troll (Outside Waters)

13.3.1. Barkley Sound Sockeye Under the current sharing arrangement for Barkley Sound sockeye, the preseason forecast for Barkley Sound sockeye provides for a limited commercial troll fishery.

The first in-season run forecast is expected to be in the third week of June.

The first commercial troll fishing opportunity is likely to be during the third week June.

Page 48 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Weekly in-season fishing plan details will be determined through the in-season advisory process.

Openings later than July 10 will likely be inside Alberni Inlet to conserve Henderson Lake sockeye. 13.3.2. Fraser River Sockeye The preliminary estimate for Fraser River sockeye suggests a run size, which should allow for a significant catch for Canadian Fisheries.

The TAC will depend on run size and escapement objectives, as well as by-catch concerns. Thompson River coho, WCVI chinook and early and late run sockeye will be a primary consideration in developing fishing plans for the Area G troll fleet.

Fishing timings and duration will be subject to change based on in-season abundance and timing information.

For early fisheries, the areas above Lewis Point (Subareas 12-5, 12-6, 12-8 and 12-9) will be closed to protect Nimpkish sockeye. It is not anticipated the area above Lewis Point will open prior to very late in July to ensure the majority of Nimpkish sockeye are in the river. The date the area above Lewis Point will open will be announced in- season.

The location of the fishery will include Area 111, portions of Areas 11 and upper Area 12. Exact boundaries will be determined prior to the fishery, and following consultation with industry advisors. Boundary adjustments may be necessary in-season in order to meet coho conservation objectives.

Fraser River sockeye fisheries on the WCVI will be considered only if the diversion rate appears to be significant through Juan de Fuca Strait, and conservation objectives of minimal by-catch for coho and WCVI chinook can be addressed.

When the fishery commences, it is expected that the fishery will remain open until further notice. The timing and duration of the fishery will be subject to abundance, available TAC, and by-catch concerns.

Notification time prior to the start of the sockeye fishery will be determined through consultation with Area G advisors. 13.3.3. Fraser River Pink The projected run size for Fraser River pink salmon is less than the escapement goal of 6.0 million pink salmon. No directed fisheries are anticipated on Fraser River pinks.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 49 of 70 13.3.4. Chum (West Coast of Vancouver Island) The outlook for chum salmon is for poor returns to WCVI areas. If terminal chum opportunities are identified, consultations with industry on the details of such opportunities will take place in-season. Chum opportunities usually occur in early October. 13.3.5. Chinook This is the final phase of the Area G three year experimental pilot chinook fishery off the WCVI, which will be completed in September 2001.

A fishery is scheduled to commence on April 25 and carry on to early or mid May in the SWVI area. Due to concerns for impacts on early-timed Fraser River chinook stocks, the NWVI area will remain closed. This has been identified as an area of early timed chinook during sampling conducted in April/May 2000. A small number of assessment vessels will fish in the NWVI area to obtain samples for DNA analysis.

Fishing opportunities in 2001 will be developed to ensure that there is little or no impact on local WCVI chinook stocks and that impacts on early timed Fraser River chinook stocks are minimized.

The available harvest level for the outer WCVI area, as determined by the PST chinook modelling process, for the period October 1, 2000 to September 30, 2001 is 135,000 chinook. This harvest level includes catches from First Nations, recreational and commercial catches, however, does not include the terminal catch of local stocks. The available harvest for the Area G troll fleet for this period would be 80,000 chinook, which would provide for a remaining potential harvest of 50,000 chinook during the April to May fishery. However, due to concerns for early timed Fraser River chinook, the April to May fishery will be limited to 25,000 pieces to start. Additionally, opportunities may be available if sampling indicates that early timed Fraser River chinook stocks can be protected.

After completion of the three-year pilot, a comprehensive review of the experimental fishery is required to determine potential fishing opportunities for future years. This review will be initiated in the early summer of 2001 by departmental staff in consultation with the Area G Advisory Committee. The preliminary available TAC for the period October 1, 2001 to September 30, 2002 is estimated at 141, 000. The potential available harvest for the Area G troll fleet for this period would be 90,000 chinook. However, final catch targets may be lower than this to address domestic allocation and other conservation objectives.

Page 50 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 13.3.6. Summary of Anticipated Fishing Opportunities for Area G Troll Anticipated Opportunities for Area G Troll

Effective Date Area Action April 25 to Early WCVI, Areas 123, 124 A full fleet fishing opportunity in the May north west of Vancouver Island is planned to harvest chinook. A harvest of 25,000 chinook is available to the Area G troll fleet for this fishery. This could be increased to 50,000 subject to meeting management objectives for stocks of concern. Time and area changes may be considered in-season as stock composition information becomes available.

Mid to Late June Barkley Sound Expect to be open for sockeye (Area 23) retention one to two days for the first week. Additional opportunities will be dependent on in-season abundance estimates and available TAC. Exact boundaries to be determined through consultation.

Late July to Early Area 111, portions of Possibly open for Fraser sockeye August Area 11 and upper Area starting in late July to early August. 12. Exact boundaries to Duration dependant on abundance be determined in-season. and available TAC. This fishery is expected to target on summer run stocks.

Opportunities to harvest Fraser River sockeye on the WCVI will be dependent on diversion rate and by- catch levels on stocks of concern.

Early October WCVI, Areas 21, 121, Directed fisheries for chum in early through winter time 123 to 127. October are unlikely due to a poor period escapement forecast.

Chinook fishing opportunities after

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 51 of 70 Effective Date Area Action October 1 will be dependant on results of a review of the three-year pilot program which will identify potential available opportunities for future years as well as limitations due to domestic stock concerns and allocation considerations.

13.4. Area H Troll (Inside Waters)

13.4.1. Chinook There will be no directed chinook fishery in 2001, however chinook may be retained during directed sockeye, pink and chum fisheries. There will be chinook non-retention in effect during Mainland Inlet pink fisheries if they occur. Should unacceptable by- catch levels of chinook occur during the directed sockeye fisheries, chinook non- retention may be implemented.

The minimum size limit for troll caught chinook is 62 cm nose-fork length for Areas 12 to 18 and 29. 13.4.2. Coho There will be coho non-retention and non-possession during all commercial troll fisheries in 2001. A possible exception could be if large surpluses of hatchery stocks return to the Orford River in Bute Inlet. 13.4.3. Sockeye, Pink and Chum Anticipated Opportunities for Area H Troll

Effective Date Area Action Late July Area 12 Mainland Inlet Pinks: In-season assessment will determine if any surplus is available. A troll fishery may be conducted to assist in determining the abundance of pinks. Boundaries to be determined in-season. Coho sensitive areas will remain closed.

Late July/Early Areas 12 and 13 Fraser Sockeye Fishery: Anticipate opening August for trolling for two to four days for the first week. All fishing will occur below Lewis Point to protect Nimpkish sockeye runs. This fishery will be managed on a weekly

Page 52 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Effective Date Area Action basis; duration of two to three fishing weeks may be possible. Details on weekly fishing strategies will be determined following consultation with Area H advisors. The following Subareas are expected to open: 12- 1, 12-3 to 12-4, 13-7 (excluding Deepwater Bay), 13-8, 13-9 and 13-27 to 13-32. In order to protect Early Summer run stocks, Area 18 and 29 may remain closed at this time.

Early August/Late Areas 12, 13, 16 Weekly target catches and fishing times will August 18 and 29 be determined in-season depending on run size, diversion rates, TAC, migration timing and other fleet considerations. Fishing times are expected to be in the range of three to five days per week. The following Subareas are expected to be open: 12-1, 12-3 to 12-4 and 13-7 (excluding Deepwater Bay), 13-8, 13-9 and 13-27 to 13-32. The lower Strait of Georgia will be considered in Subareas 16-19, 16-21 (Sabine Channel) 18-4 (Pender Bluffs), 18-1, 18-11 and Area 29-1 to 29-6. Fishing opportunities in the lower Strait of Georgia will be confirmed in-season following consultation with industry and will be dependant on run size, diversion patterns and remaining Area H allocation.

Late run sockeye abundance will likely be a factor in limiting seine and gill net harvest opportunities for summer run stocks during this period. Low water conditions and high water temperatures in the Fraser River may reduce the troll fishing opportunities in Johnstone Strait and Strait of Georgia.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 53 of 70 Effective Date Area Action Late August/Early Areas 12, 13, 18 No surplus has been forecast for Fraser River September and 29 pinks, thus no directed fishery is planned in these areas. There is the possibility of a mainland pink fishery. Details to be determined in season.

Early Areas 12 and 13 Chum Fishery: The Chum Clockwork Fishing October/Late Strategy is under review at this time. Harvest October opportunities will be determined upon completion of this review. The preseason forecast is for a poor return in 2001. Chum fishing opportunities in terminal areas will be determined in-season and discussed through the advisory process.

Mid to Late Area 29 Area 29 will remain closed until October 15 October due to coho conservation measures. Possible fishery after October 15 if chum surplus is identified.

For early fisheries, the areas above Lewis Point (Subareas 12-5, 12-6, 12-8 and 12- 9), may be closed to protect Nimpkish Sockeye. It is not anticipated the area above Lewis Point will open prior to very late in July to ensure the majority of Nimpkish River sockeye are in the river. The date the area above Lewis Point will be opened will be announced in season.

Subarea 12-2 will open to fishing after Adam/Eve pink stocks have cleared this sanctuary area and migrated upstream (estimated timing will be August 20 to 25).

During Fraser River sockeye management, Area 29 and Area 18 will be subject to the control of the Fraser River Panel in conjunction with Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

Chum fisheries in Area 29 will be considered in Subareas 29-3, a portion of Subarea 29-4 north of the 49th parallel and Subarea 29-6 after October 15. 13.5. Catch Monitoring Programs There is a requirement to develop selective and sustainable fisheries through partnership and co- management arrangements with client groups and stakeholders. Extensive monitoring programs will continue in 2001 to assist in meeting conservation objectives. The programs will closely track the catch of both target species and encounters with non-target species, especially chinook and coho. These programs will include a mandatory logbook program, in-season

Page 54 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan (phone-in) and post-season (mail-in) catch reporting program, and on-grounds observer programs. A test fishing/avoidance program may be considered in some areas. 13.6. Salmon Logbook and Catch Reporting Requirements

13.6.1. Vessel Masters The vessel master is responsible for the provision and maintenance of an accurate record, a “log”, of daily harvest operations. This log must be completed and a copy submitted post-season in both hard copy (paper) and electronic form in an approved format as defined for the 2001 licence year by the Fisheries and Oceans Canada Salmon Catch Monitoring Data Unit. The vessel master is also responsible to report catch on an in-season basis. The in-season report contents and deadlines are specified in the Conditions of Licence.

Logbooks, in-season and post-season catch reporting services meeting Fisheries and Oceans Canada standards, are available from outside service companies who, for a fee, will provide the logbook and phone-in data entry service, thus complying with the requirements for a hard (paper) copy, and in-season and post-season electronic copy.

The completed logbook, including all original white pages, must be forwarded by December 31, 2001 to the service provider who supplied the logbook. A pre- addressed, postage paid envelope is included with the logbook for this purpose.

An electronic copy of the data contained in the completed logbook must be forwarded to the department by January 31, 2002. (The service provider who supplied the logbook will submit this report on behalf of the vessel master upon receipt of the completed paper logbook.)

As an alternative to harvest log provision through a service company, the vessel master may provide a hard copy log to the department. It must be in the same form and providing the same particulars as shown in the fishing log sample (see Appendix 2), and conform to the standards outlined in the conditions of licence. The vessel master must also provide in-season and post-season electronic copies that are required to be a true and accurate transcription of the hard copy data. The in-season and post-season electronic copies must be input directly into the department’s salmon catch database. Input into the database will require secure access to the department’s computer network. This access is available through application to the department and requires the purchase and installation of computer networking security software, plus a monthly security account maintenance fee.

Contact the Salmon Catch Monitoring Unit, at the address below, to obtain the full requirements and acceptable data format that meets the conditions of licence. The in- season electronic catch reports must be received in accordance with the deadlines as

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 55 of 70 specified in the conditions of licence. The hard copy (logbook) must be received not later than December 31, 2001, and the post-season electronic copy of the harvest log must be received by January 31, 2002. This information must be sent to the following address:

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Salmon Catch Monitoring Unit South Coast Division 3225 Stephenson Point Road Nanaimo, B.C., V9T 1K3 Tel: (250) 756-7270

Catch information must be recorded in the harvest log by midnight of the day of fishing. The logbook must be kept aboard the licensed vessel. Logbooks must be produced for examination on demand of a fishery officer, guardian or a fishery observer designated under the Fisheries Act. 13.6.2. Vessel Owners The vessel owner on record, as reported to the department’s Pacific Fishery Licence Unit, is responsible to ensure that the vessel master has completed and submitted a copy of the log data. Fisheries and Oceans Canada can only release log data to the reported vessel owner, and only upon written request. In the event that a licence is issued but not fished, the vessel master is responsible for submitting a Nil Report for the season. The Nil Report must be submitted prior to the issuing of approval for licence renewal. The blank harvest logbook identifying the vessel, licence tab number, and the year with “Nil” entered in the body of the log and signed by the vessel master constitutes a Nil Report.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada reminds fishers that harvest logs must be completed accurately during fishing operations, and submitted to the department in accordance with the timing set out in conditions of licence. Delay of completion or submission of logs is a violation of a condition of licence. 13.6.3. Confidentiality of Harvest Data Harvest data, including fishing location data supplied through latitude/longitude co- ordinates, Loran or chart records, collected under the harvest logbooks for salmon fisheries programs, are used by Fisheries and Oceans Canada for assessment, management and control of the salmon fisheries. Upon receipt by Fisheries and Oceans Canada of harvest log data and/or fishing location information, supplied by the fisher in accordance with conditions of licence, Section 20(1)(b) of the Access to Information Act, prevents the department from disclosing to a third party, records containing financial, commercial, scientific or technical information that is confidential information. Further, Section 20(1)(c) of the Act prevents the department from giving out

Page 56 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan information, the disclosure of which could reasonably be expected to result in material financial loss, or could reasonably be expected to prejudice the competitive position of the fisher. 13.6.4. Fish Slip Requirements It is a condition of licence that an accurate written report shall be furnished on a fish slip of all fish and shellfish caught under the authority of that licence. Multi-licensed vessels are reminded to ensure that when recording catch on fish slips, catches from different licence areas are recorded separately on fish slips. A report must be made even if the fish landed are used for bait, personal consumption, or otherwise disposed. The written report shall be posted not later than seven days after the offloading and sent to:

Fisheries and Oceans Canada Catch Statistics Unit Station 420, 555 West Hastings Street Vancouver, B.C., V6B 5G3 (604) 666-3784

Fish slip books may be purchased at the above address, or at most Fisheries and Oceans offices. Phone (604) 666-2716. 13.7. Marine Radio Information Updates

13.7.1. Area G Troll Broadcasts will occur every Friday at 17:30 hours starting July 20, until the Fraser sockeye fishery is complete. Proposed management actions and catch information will be broadcast to the Area G troll fleet on the following Telus marine band frequencies during the Fraser River sockeye season:

Bamfield CH 27 Pachena Point CH 87 Brooks Peninsula CH 87 Port Hardy CH 24 Holberg CH 60 Tofino CH 24 Jordan River CH 23 Victoria CH 86 Kyuquot CH 01 Winter Harbour CH 27 13.7.2. Area H Troll For the Area H troll fleet, broadcasts will occur every Friday at 16:30 hours starting July 20 until the Fraser sockeye fishery is complete. Proposed management actions and catch information will be broadcast to the Area H troll fleet on the following Telus marine band frequencies during the Fraser River sockeye season:

Port Hardy CH 24 Alert Bay CH 87 Sayward CH 28 Campbell River CH 24 Courtenay CH 23 Parksville CH 28

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 57 of 70 Nanaimo CH 87 Victoria CH 86 Richmond CH 25 Vancouver CH 24

14. EXCESS SALMON TO SPAWNING REQUIREMENTS FISHERIES

Excess Salmon to Spawning Requirements Fisheries (ESSR) fisheries may occur when salmon stocks, after passing through the various fisheries, return to their natal river and are at a level in excess of their spawning requirements. In these cases, arrangements are made to allow an ESSR harvest of these surplus fish closer to the spawning grounds.

Once an ESSR surplus has been identified, the first priority will be to use surpluses to meet outstanding First Nations requirements for food, ceremonial and social purposes. This may be done under a Communal Licence or AFS agreement.

As a second priority, the local Native band or Tribal Council may be provided the opportunity to harvest all or part of the surplus. Harvesting will be done under a Ministerial authorization or an ESSR licence. Harvesting arrangements will be formalized by an AFS Agreement. If the Native group declines or does not respond within a specified period, the ESSR harvest may be offered to a local community group. In these cases, the surplus may be offered by competitive tender for crown-owned fish. The profits from the surplus are to be put to a project supporting fisheries enhancement/management in the area

Although not planned for, ESSR fisheries have occurred on a frequent basis on hatchery surpluses at Nitinat, Robertson Creek, Qualicum, Conuma, Goldstream and other facilities in the lower Fraser River.

In addition to hatchery ESSR opportunities, surpluses to spawning requirements can also occur in natural systems. As mentioned previously, management of summer run Fraser River sockeye will be constrained by measures to protect early summer and late run sockeye returns. These measures could result in surplus summer run sockeye reaching the spawning grounds. In the event that this occurs, First Nations groups have requested harvesting opportunities pursuant to the department’s ESSR policy. The feasibility of such a proposal will be reviewed for 2001. There are a number of issues, however, that will require resolution before such a fishery could be considered. For example, there would have to be a clear demonstration that a surplus exists after other, planned harvests described in this IFMP are executed. Current in-season assessment programs may not be sufficiently robust to make surplus determinations in a timely manner. Clear escapement targets would need to be determined and harvesting activities would have to ensure that stocks of concern were not impacted. Agreement would have to be achieved as to which First Nations groups would benefit from the arrangements, and how benefits would be redirected towards enhancement or improvement of the resource (in accordance with the department’s ESSR policy). Finally, arrangements for this fishery would have to be made sufficiently early to allow a range of logistical implementation details to be worked out.

Page 58 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Discussions will be ongoing between the department and First Nations as to the feasibility of this approach.

15. ENFORCEMENT

15.1. Overview The enforcement policy and activities of the department are the responsibility of the Conservation and Protection (C&P) program within Fisheries Management. Fishery officers and marine enforcement officers working throughout Pacific Region carry out enforcement activities for the C&P program. Aboriginal fishery guardians assist Fisheries and Oceans Canada fishery officers in a number of locations where joint enforcement protocols are in place. Observers, designated by the department, complement enforcement staff by performing a monitoring, verification and sampling function. In addition, charter patrolmen who are contracted by the department under a vessel charter contract hold the “fishery inspector” designation. Their primary duty is to carry out observe, record and report activities. 15.2. Results from Previous Season At the end of each season, statistics are compiled for various enforcement actions, and compared to results from previous years.

Within the large geographical area encompassed by this IFMP, there is great diversity in the types of fishing methodologies and fishers, and consequently enforcement strategies vary significantly between coastal and interior areas. For this reason the following results have been broken into Coastal and Interior enforcement areas.

Enforcement ProfileSouthern B.C. Salmon IFMP - 2000 Category Location Persons Checked Occurrence Violations * First Nations Coastal 324 75 49 Interior 2991 420 271 Total 3315 495 320

Commercial Coastal 740 41 27 Interior 714 60 46 Total 1454 101 73

Recreational Coastal 9520 386 393 Interior 6202 381 434 Total 15772 767 827

Habitat Coastal 928 473 45 Interior 812 785 161

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 59 of 70 Enforcement ProfileSouthern B.C. Salmon IFMP - 2000 Category Location Persons Checked Occurrence Violations * Total 1740 1258 206

*It should be noted that the violation figures include all charges, warnings and seizures from unknown person. 15.3. Main Program Activities

15.3.1. Priorities for 2001 a) Habitat protection: Fishery officer’s will dedicate a large part of their time to enforcing the habitat provisions of the Fisheries Act. b) Enforcement of measures designed to protect stocks of concern, e.g. Thompson coho and WCVI chinook. c) Monitoring of mandatory selective fishing measures such as brailing, Alaska twist nets, short sets for gill nets and barbless hooks (recreational and troll). d) Illegal sales of salmon in all areas. e) Routine patrols prior to, during and after fisheries to ensure compliance with licence conditions, closed time/areas, and other provisions. 15.3.2. First Nations Where possible enforcement protocols are developed between Fisheries and Oceans Canada and First Nations groups for the management and control of both pilot sales and food, social, ceremonial fisheries. These protocols vary between individual First Nations fisheries, but where they are in place First Nations guardians work with Fisheries and Oceans Canada fishery officer’s to enforce regulations. In the case of Pilot Sales fisheries, a Mandatory Landing Program (MLP) is usually in place to monitor harvest activities. 15.3.3. Recreational Key enforcement activities in these fisheries are monitoring closed time/area, bag limits, size limits, prohibited species, licences, catch recording and selective fishing measures such as the use of barbless hooks.

In 2001, as in 2000, fishery officers will be concentrating on management measures to protect Rivers/Smith Inlet sockeye and depressed coho and other weak stocks in Northern B.C. 15.3.4. Commercial Key enforcement activities in the commercial fishery include personal and vessel licence checks, as well as net decal checks, gear compliance and compliance of selective fishing requirements. For example: barbless hooks for trollers, mandatory brailing for seines, short duration sets and Alaska twist nets for gill nets, revival tanks for all gear and non-

Page 60 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan retention of prohibited species. All gear types are required to hail, provide daily catch data and have logbooks that are maintained and updated in-season. 15.3.5. Dockside Monitoring Salmon packing vessels will be monitored on the fishing grounds and the information is documented and referred to the appropriate C&P field unit for dockside monitoring. Vessels are checked at dockside to ensure compliance with Conditions of Licence, and to verify that prohibited species (e.g. coho, chinook and steelhead) are not retained. 15.3.6. Fishery Patrol Vessels and Aerial Surveillance All at-sea and in-river patrols are conducted using C&P program vessels and Coast Guard patrol vessels. Air surveillance is done under two different programs. For shore-oriented, localized enforcement and monitoring needs, local air charters are contracted on an as-needed basis. In addition, there is a more comprehensive offshore air surveillance program. The purpose of this program is to obtain vessel counts from recreational, commercial, and in some cases, First Nations fisheries, and to detect suspicious vessels (e.g. fishing in closed areas). Aircraft are tasked on a daily basis for specific surveillance duties. Canadian Coast Guard fixed wing and helicopter craft are also employed on occasion, depending on availability. Air surveillance resources are utilised mainly during the July to September period, but at other times as required. 15.3.7. Conservation and Protection Evaluation Criteria At the end of each season, statistics are compiled on the numbers of checks conducted from various platforms (at-sea, vehicle and foot), and the number of charges resulting from these checks are recorded. Using this information, staff can evaluate whether enforcement priorities were met and whether various enforcement activities were effective. Overall compliance rates for each area and fishery are calculated in order to identify priority areas for enforcement in subsequent seasons.

Post-season review meetings with Conservation and Protection and Resource Management staff are held on an annual basis. From these sessions, staff identify key enforcement issues and recommend strategies for addressing these issues.

More detailed information on Pacific salmon enforcement programs is available through the Internet at:

www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/fm/Salmon/index.htm

16. POST SEASON REVIEW

Management objectives from the 2000 IFMP are reported below, along with an assessment of the success with which these objectives were met.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 61 of 70 16.1. Conservation/Sustainability

16.1.1. To maintain the goal of zero fishing mortality in Canadian fisheries on Thompson coho stocks, as in 1998 and 1999. Total impact of Canadian fisheries on Thompson coho stocks was approximately 2%. 16.1.2. To minimize the mortality of WCVI chinook stocks in all Canadian fisheries. The exploitation rate on age four and older chinook was 6.4%. This level of exploitation is consistent with the objective to minimize mortalities of WCVI chinook and is significantly less than the exploitation rate in 1999 of approximately 40%.

The 2000 preseason forecast was for a poor return of 10,400 chinook to Robertson Creek. The actual total return was 10,150 chinook.

The 2000 terminal return of chinook to the Stamp River/RCH indicator stock was estimated to be 6,440 adult (age three and older) chinook, plus 2,970 age two males (jacks). The adult return represented an 80% decline from the 1999 return level.

Returns to another 22 WCVI streams that were monitored for chinook spawning escapements declined approximately 60%, considerably down from 1999 levels. 16.1.3. To ensure conservation and protection of salmon stocks, their habitat and ecosystems through the application of scientific management principles applied in a precautionary manner based on the best scientific advice and knowledge available. Conservation and sustainable use objectives of the department were generally met in the year 2000 Pacific salmon fishery. The department successfully implemented a precautionary management approach. For example, this was reflected in the WCVI (Somass River) sockeye fishery where unexpectedly poor returns were addressed with substantial fishing restrictions. In addition, the anticipated poor returns of WCVI Chinook and Thompson coho (see above) were addressed in the fisheries management plans and actions taken.

Various activities to protect and restore fish habitat were carried out to assist stocks with conservation concerns. The Habitat Restoration and Salmon Enhancement Program (HRSEP) provided $6.7 million in 2000/01 to support more than 100 community projects designed to conserve salmon and their habitat in B.C. and Yukon. Many of these projects are designed to improve weak salmon stocks such as coho.

The Strategic Stock Enhancement Program continues to address serious conservation concerns for endangered stocks, using fish culture and salmon hatcheries, with partners such as local First Nations, community groups and the commercial fishing industry.

Page 62 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan 16.1.4. To maintain sustainable First Nations, recreational and commercial fisheries through partnership and co-management arrangements with client groups and stakeholders, and to share in decision-making, responsibilities and costs. Fishing opportunities for all sectors were generally permitted when stocks of concerns were not present and surpluses of target species were identified. Fishing opportunities were limited by concerns for a variety of stocks, including Thompson River and Strait of Georgia coho and WCVI chinook. However, Fraser River sockeye returned in numbers at the high end of the predicted range and Mainland pink salmon returns were better than anticipated.

The use of selective fishing techniques and gear in all salmon fisheries allowed harvesting opportunities on stronger salmon stocks while continuing to protect those stocks most at risk.

With respect to stakeholder input, consultation took place with all major First Nation and stakeholder groups on key management issues. Initial consultations took place early in 2000 to discuss initial forecasts and expectations for the fisheries, and continued through the spring and summer, as more information became available. Development of final fishing plans was discussed with all three harvest groups in April, May and into June 2000. Post season reviews were conducted through November and December 2000 and June 2001. 16.1.5. To maintain manageability and enforceability of the fisheries management plans. As per the preseason enforcement plan, recreational fisheries enforcement was a priority on fisheries impacting protection of WCVI Chinook and Thompson/Upper Fraser Coho. Enforcement measures concentrated on the conservation corridor on the WCVI, chinook slot limit, non-retention of coho and gear restrictions such as barbless hooks. Compliance overall remained high in most of the recreational fishery.

In the Fraser River, the primary focus on enforcement was summer run sockeye conservation, Thompson River coho red zone conservation, and Chilliwack-Vedder and Chehalis hatchery Coho. Compliance was good in the sockeye and coho red zone closures. Significant problems of snagging, over possession, improper gear, etc. were encountered in the fall Chilliwack-Vedder and Chehalis fisheries.

Officers were able to ensure good coverage of all the South Coast fisheries. Enforcement efforts concentrated on selective fishing measures such as logbooks, hail- ins, revival tanks, barbless hooks, short (hot) sets, and Alaska twist nets. Compliance has increased during the second year of new selective fishing methods as officers stepped up enforcement actions on those failing to comply. Mandatory hail-ins compliance remains quite low and more work is needed to increase compliance. On October 16, 2000, a Fraser River chum fishery encountered high numbers of coho, causing enforcement problems involving revival box and incidental release issues.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 63 of 70 First Nations enforcement efforts were concentrated in areas where interception of WCVI chinook, Thompson/Upper Fraser coho and early timed Fraser sockeye were occurring. Overall, compliance was good as the First Nations focussed their fishing priorities on more abundant stocks such as Barkley Sound sockeye, summer run Fraser sockeye and hatchery-enhanced coho. The pilot sales fishery in Alberni Inlet/Somass River continued in 2000 and, for the most part, compliance was very good. Some increased poaching occurred during the pilot sales closed time in July and changes are required in 2001.

On the Fraser River, 2000 saw a de-escalation of conflict and tensions between Fisheries and Oceans Canada and some First Nation groups. C&P staff conducted enforcement in a manner that limited confrontation but in large part, achieved conservation goals. A conflict resolution specialist was employed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada to assist in framing the issues and developing a strategy that will direct future of the department and First Nations to a more effective consultative process.

Fishery officers in all areas increased habitat site inspections and monitoring of work around streams and foreshore, taking particular interest in protecting valuable coho salmon habitat. Funding from the Habitat Conservation and Stewardship Program was secured for the next three years to add dedicated habitat fishery officers to complement the general duty officers (one in the Upper Fraser, one on Vancouver Island, and three out of the lower Fraser River). 16.1.6. To develop fishing plans and co-operative programs which will contribute to improving the knowledge base and understanding of the salmon resource. Extensive monitoring programs continued in 2001 to assist in meeting conservation objectives for Pacific Salmon, many conducted in collaboration with fishers.

For Southern B.C. First Nations fisheries, a variety of reporting programs were implemented, many in collaboration with First Nations through AFS funding and other arrangements.

For the recreational fleet, creel programs continued in areas of concentrated fishing effort. Some lodges participated in catch logbook programs.

For the commercial fleet, catch monitoring programs closely tracked the catch of both target species and encounters with non-target species, especially chinook and coho. These programs included a mandatory logbook program, in-season (phone-in) and post-season (mail-in) catch reporting program, and on-grounds observer programs.

In 2000, the department launched a new web-based database system for the entry, and processing of catch information from southern B.C. fisheries. This system greatly

Page 64 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan improved access to in-season catch information from both commercial and First Nations fisheries.

As in 1998 and 1999, emphasis was again placed on the development of selective fishing techniques and methods in collaboration with fishers and other groups (see Exploratory Fisheries below). 16.2. International Considerations and Objectives To ensure that obligations within the PST are achieved with respect to the various fishery agreements 16.2.1. Fraser River Sockeye Based on preliminary estimates of catch and the PSC staff’s in-season assessment of gross escapement to the Fraser River, the sockeye return (forecast in parentheses) was 4,541,000 (2,296,000), comprised of 366,000 (157,000) Early Stuart, 923,000 (289,000) Early Summer, 2,455,000 (931,000) Summer, and 796,000 (286,000) Late run sockeye.

Preliminary estimates of Fraser River sockeye catch totalled 2,430,000 fish: 968,000 fish in Canadian commercial fisheries (not including aboriginal pilot sales), 494,000 fish in U.S. Treaty Indian and non-Indian fisheries in Washington state, 0 in Alaska, and 834,000 fish in Canadian First Nation fisheries. The remaining catch of 147,000 sockeye was accounted for in Canadian selective fisheries (15,000), Canadian recreational fisheries (30,000), and test and charter fisheries (102,000).

Preliminary estimates of sockeye spawning escapements to Fraser River watershed totalled 2,353,000 in 2000. This escapement was 14% larger than the brood year (1996) escapement of 2,061,000. Preliminary estimates are: 90,000 Early Stuart, 574,000 Early Summer, 1,651,000 Mid-summer run sockeye and 38,000 Late run sockeye.

The mandate of the Fraser River Panel is to manage commercial fisheries in Panel Area waters to achieve a hierarchy of annual goals. In order of importance, these goals are to:

a) Achieve escapement targets for Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon that are set by Canada. b) Achieve targets for international sharing of the TAC as defined in the Treaty or by agreement by the Parties. c) Achieve domestic catch allocation goals within each country. In the process of achieving these objectives, the Panel must also consider the conservation concerns for other stocks and species of salmon when planning and conducting the fisheries.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 65 of 70 The Panel’s first task is to achieve Canada’s gross escapement targets by run timing group (Early Stuart, Early Summer, Summer and Late). Gross escapement targets include fish for spawning and for First Nation’s harvest in the Fraser River. A third category, “management adjustments”, has been added to gross escapement targets in recent years to ensure spawning escapement targets are met. These adjustments are to take into account bias in the relationship between gross escapement estimates derived in the lower river (Mission escapement estimate plus Fraser First Nations catches below Mission) or in-season predictions of enroute mortality. In 2000, the Fraser River Panel agreed to management adjustments of 50,000 Early Stuart, 83,000 Early Summer and 200,000 late-run fish.

The success of the Panel can be assessed either by an in-season lower-river gross escapement targets met the adjusted gross escapement targets, or by upriver gross escapement estimate met the unadjusted targets. By the first measure, the adjusted gross escapement target was achieved for early Stuart sockeye (only 2,000 fish under), exceeded for Early Summer (76,000 fish over) and Summer stocks (37,000 fish over), and not achieved for Late-run stocks (29,000 fish under). By the second measure, upriver estimates of gross escapement were near the target for Early Stuart (3,000 under), considerably higher than the targets for Early Summer (275,000 over) and Summer (615,000 over) runs, and substantially less than the target for Late-run stocks (247,000 under). The shortfalls in the Early Stuart and Late-run escapements were largely due to enroute mortalities. The overages in the Early Summer and Summer-run escapements were partly due to protective management actions applied to maximize the escapement to Early Stuart and Late-run escapements.

The Panel’s second priority is to achieve the goals for international allocation of the TAC, which is based upon in-season run size estimates. The final estimate of Washington catch was 494,000 sockeye (24.5% of TAC plus 26,000 payback) compared to an allocation target of 421,000 (20.4% plus 26,000 payback). This represents an overage of 73,000 fish in the United States catch. Much of the overage resulted from late season reductions to TAC. These numbers should still be considered preliminary and will be finalized prior to the commencement of the 2001 season.

Achievement of domestic allocation within Canada was difficult in 2000 due to several reasons including:

a) High uncertainty pre-season with respect to potential abundance. b) Delays in providing accurate estimates of the abundances of early Summer and Chilko sockeye. c) Substantial fishery restrictions were imposed due to the anticipated enroute mortality of Late-run sockeye.

Page 66 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Within Canadian commercial catch of 968,000 Fraser River sockeye, Area B purse seines was 91,000 fish under, Area D gill nets were 27,000 over, Area E gill nets 194,000 over, Area G trollers were 125,000 under and Area H trollers were 5,000 fish under the allocation. These estimates of overage and underage are still preliminary as catch by licence group is still under review. 16.2.2. Southern B.C. Chum Test fishing was the main in-season assessment tool for the Johnstone Straits area in 2000. Test fishing data through early October suggested a total return of 2.2 million. However, subsequent assessments suggested total returns of less than 2.0 million. As provided in the PST agreement, the harvest rate is limited to 10% for run sizes of less then three million. As per the preseason plan the following fisheries were conducted:

a) Seine fishery was conducted on October 2, 2000 for 12 hours resulting in a total catch of 129,000 chum. b) Gill net fishery starting 0800 hours October 6, for 24 hours resulting in a total catch of 9,000 chum. c) Troll fishery conducted on October 9, for 24 hours resulting in a total catch of 2,000 chum.

The total Johnstone Strait catch in 2000 was about 140,000 commercial, 13,000 in the test fisheries, 8,000 in experimental selective fisheries and 15,000 First Nations, for a total harvest of 176,000. As per the PST agreement, U.S. fisheries were managed to harvest no more than 20,000 chum salmon in U.S. Areas 7/7A. The actual U.S. harvest in 2000 in 7/7A was less than 1,000 chum. 16.2.3. Southern B.C. Chinook Harvest levels for chinook in Canadian fisheries were below levels permitted under the treaty. No issues were identified on the management of these stocks.

For fishery-specific information on arrangements see:

www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/english/release/p-releas/HQ/hq9929e.htm 16.3. Domestic Considerations

16.3.1. To consider the goals of society with respect to social, cultural and economic values of the salmon resource and the fishery. General management objectives for the Pacific Salmon fishery are laid out in the department’s New Direction Policy paper and other related documents such as the Allocation Policy for Pacific Salmon which was released in October 1999. These documents have all been subject to broad consultation with First Nations, key stakeholder and interest groups, and the general public.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 67 of 70 Advice was sought from a variety of sources during development of the specific management objectives for the 2000 IFMP. Formal scientific advice about the status of stocks and the effects of various fishing regimes was received from the PSARC. First Nations raised their concerns and interests primarily through bilateral consultations with the department. Other processes, such as work by the B.C. Aboriginal Fisheries Commission and the Fraser River Aboriginal Fisheries Forum, provided a focal point for multilateral input by First Nations on key management issues.

Recreational input was received mainly through Sport Fishing Advisory Board meetings and processes. Advice on management measures and objectives was received from the commercial sector mainly through the South Coast Advisory Board, the Central Coast Advisory Board and other advisory processes.

The Pacific Fisheries Resource Conservation Council continued to provide input on key management issues in the fishery. 16.4. Aboriginal Fisheries

16.4.1. To ensure that, subject to conservation needs, first priority is accorded to First Nations to provide opportunities to harvest fish for food, social and ceremonial harvest purposes. In managing fishing during the 2000 season, this priority was recognized in all fisheries. There are a vast range of fisheries in the south coast and Fraser River and various approaches are taken depending on the fishery to ensure that the First Nation priority is met. A summary of the most prominent fisheries is as follows. First Nations fishers were provided directed fishing opportunities on Fraser sockeye in Johnstone Strait, on the WCVI, on the Sunshine Coast and off the mouth of the Fraser River. First Nations food, social and ceremonial fisheries took place in outer Barkley Sound for Somass River sockeye and, as planned, a sockeye food and pilot sale fishery took place in the Somass River. Fraser River First Nations enjoyed strong in-river sockeye fishing opportunities for food, social and ceremonial purposes. Limited terminal coho salmon opportunities were also provided to First Nations where abundance permitted. Due to conservation concerns with WCVI chinook only very limited opportunities to harvest chinook salmon were provided to First Nations on the WCVI. Food, social and ceremonial opportunities for chinook and other species were largely maintained elsewhere. 16.5. Recreational Fishery

16.5.1. To ensure that after conservation needs are met, and priority access for First Nations food, social and ceremonial needs are addressed, recreational anglers will be provided: priority for directed fisheries on chinook and coho salmon, and predictable and stable fishing opportunities for sockeye, pink and chum salmon.

Page 68 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Consistent with the priorities described above, the south coast recreational fishery experienced some increased fishing opportunities in 2000. Coho selective mark fisheries for hatchery stocks were provided on WCVI and in lower Johnstone Strait and Upper Georgia Strait (Areas 13 and 14). A number of terminal opportunities for coho were permitted, including Alberni Inlet on Stamp/Somass River stocks. Recreational fishing opportunities for Fraser River sockeye and Mainland Inlet pink salmon occurred in the Johnstone Strait area. In the Strait of Georgia, many of the chinook salmon spot closures were rescinded after a science review of their effectiveness and consultations with the recreational fishing community. 16.6. Commercial Fisheries

16.6.1. To ensure that, after conservation needs are met and priority access for First Nations food, social and ceremonial needs are addressed, commercial fishers will be provided with opportunities to harvest surplus salmon. This includes implementing harvest measures that will ensure adequate escapement of salmon stocks that are expected to return at low abundance. Commercial fishers will be provided access to sockeye, pink and chum salmon, in a quantity that is 95 percent or higher of the combined commercial and recreational catch. There were modest commercial fishing opportunities, including sockeye, for Area B seine, Area D gill net, Area G and Area H troll fleets in Johnstone Strait and two pink opportunities for all three gear types in the mainland inlets. The Area E gill net fleet was also provided good fishing opportunities for sockeye and limited access to chinook in the Fraser River. Other commercial sockeye opportunities were provided on the WCVI, but the returns to the Somass River were significantly lower than anticipated. Low average returns resulted in only limited commercial fisheries on chum salmon in 2000. 16.7. Exploratory/Experimental Fisheries

16.7.1. To continue to encourage and support the development of selective fishing practices in all harvest sectors and to allow selective fishing opportunities where stocks at risk are not prevalent. As in 1999, the 2000 fishing season had a great deal of activity around the development of selective fishing methods and technology. In 2000, over 30 experimental pilot projects tested innovative ideas and gear modifications in gill net, seine, troll, recreational and First Nations salmon fisheries. Many of these new gear modifications and fishing methods are currently being adopted. In addition to funding for experimental projects, funds were used to support scientific research, monitoring by independent on- board observers to ensure that data and conservation objectives are attained, increased enforcement to ensure compliance with selectivity practices, and training support for fishers and anglers.

2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Page 69 of 70 17. NEWS RELEASES

To view the salmon updates for the 2001 season please visit our website at:

www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/english/main/release.htm

18. ATTACHMENTS

Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Appendix 2: Logbook Samples Appendix 3: WCVI Chinook Escapement Strategy and Rebuilding Plan Appendix 4: Thompson River Coho Escapement Strategy and Rebuilding Plan Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye Management Decision Rules Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas

Page 70 of 70 2001 Southern B.C. Salmon Integrated Fishery Management Plan Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan

1. OBJECTIVES AND PURPOSE

In 1999, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans approved and publicly released “An Allocation Policy for Pacific salmon” (Fisheries and Oceans Canada, October 1999). This policy outlines seven principles that guide the distribution of salmon among competing uses (including conservation) and harvestable surpluses of salmon among competing users of the resource.

This plan for the 2001 salmon fishery reflects the seven principles contained in this current allocation policy for pacific salmon. The plan outlines in more specific detail the operational procedures that will guide allocation in the 2001 fishery. It also outlines the outcomes that are anticipated to result from the application of these operational procedures given present conservation concerns and expectations of fish abundance.

The purpose of the plan is to:

a) Assist stakeholders to plan and prepare for the upcoming pacific salmon fishing season. b) Clarify for both the public and stakeholders the department's operational procedures with respect to allocation of pacific salmon. c) Ensure consistency in the procedures followed by departmental staff with respect to the implementation of the approved allocation policy for pacific salmon. 1.1. Conservation Conservation of pacific salmon stocks is the primary objective and will take precedence in managing the resource. Conservation will not be compromised to achieve salmon allocation targets.

To reflect this principle, the general management approach is to establish objectives in the form of exploitation rate ceilings or escapement targets that are appropriate to the conservation status of given salmon stock groupings. For stock groupings of significant conservation concern, management measures will strive to minimise the exploitation rate in order to reduce the risk of stock extirpation and facilitate necessary stock re-building.

Specific stocks of significant conservation concern in 2001 are Thompson River coho, West Coast of Vancouver Island (WCVI) chinook, Rivers Inlet sockeye and Smith Inlet sockeye. Directed fisheries on these stocks of concern will not be permitted and further restrictions will be applied as necessary to reduce their by-catch in fisheries targeted at other species and stocks.

Upper Skeena River coho are re-building primarily due to improvements in marine survival and the conservation measures implemented from 1998 to 2000. In 2001, to ensure continued rebuilding of these stocks restrictions on directed commercial fisheries for upper Skeena coho will

Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Page 1 of 11 remain in place, but directed First Nations food, social and ceremonial fisheries and recreational fisheries will be allowed to proceed. Commercial fisheries that harvest this stock grouping as by-catch will be adjusted in light of in-season indicators of abundance to the extent possible.

The specific management regimes and contingency plans for all of these stock groupings will be detailed in the 2001 Integrated Fisheries Management Plans (IFMP) for pacific salmon.

To further support the achievement of conservation objectives, salmon will be set aside in- season, for conservation related test fisheries necessary to determine the timing and general health of salmon stocks and to identify/confirm harvest levels. These assessment fisheries will only be pursued when they will not directly interfere with the achievement of conservation objectives. These fisheries will also be limited to the minimum fishing required to provide, with an acceptable degree of scientific confidence, the information necessary for the better conservation and protection of fish and the proper management and control of fisheries. Interim guidelines and procedures for the approval of conservation related assessment fisheries and for the designation of persons and vessels for the purpose of fishing will be made available prior to the fishing season. 1.2. First Nations After conservation needs are met, First Nations food, social and ceremonial requirements and treaty obligations to First Nations have first priority in salmon allocation.

To reflect this principle, the general management approach that will be followed has both pre- season and in-season elements.

Pre-season, the amount of fish required to meet First Nations food, social and ceremonial needs and treaty obligations will be considered prior to planning for other (commercial and recreational) fisheries. Specifically, given the exploitation rate ceilings and escapement targets appropriate to the conservation status of the various stock groupings, and the forecast abundance of the stock grouping, First Nations is given priority to any projected harvestable surpluses. In the event that anticipated surpluses above conservation requirements are small, commercial and recreational fisheries are carefully planned in light of First Nations projected needs and in close consultation with First Nations.

In-season adjustments to fisheries will further support the achievement of this priority. In the event that harvest from test fishing or on-going commercial, recreational or First Nations fisheries indicate that abundance is substantially below anticipated levels, any necessary in- season adjustments to fishing will be made in accordance with this First Nations priority. Specifically, adjustments will affect commercial and recreational fisheries prior to First Nations fisheries. The relative priority between commercial and recreational fisheries will be guided by other elements of the allocation policy specific to those sectors.

Page 2 of 11 Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan 1.3. Recreational and Commercial Allocation After conservation needs are met, and priority access for First Nations is addressed, recreational anglers will be provided with:

a) Priority to directed fisheries for chinook and coho salmon. b) Predictable and stable fishing opportunities for sockeye, pink and chum salmon.

After conservation needs are met, and priority access for First Nations is addressed:

a) The commercial sector will be allocated at least 95% of the combined commercial and recreational harvest of sockeye, pink and chum salmon. b) The commercial harvest of chinook and coho salmon will occur when abundance permits.

There are continuing conservation concerns with Thompson River coho, a number of other south coast coho stocks and WCVI chinook. In addition, there are continuing efforts to rebuild upper Skeena coho stocks. In 2001, as in recent years, these concerns will result in a number of fishing restrictions. However, these restrictions will differentially impact commercial and recreational fisheries. Attempts will be made to balance the need to maintain recreational fishing time and fishing opportunity for chinook and coho salmon with the need for commercial access on a non-retention basis to allow the prosecution of directed fisheries on other more abundant salmon species.

No directed commercial fisheries on coho are anticipated in 2001. With minor exceptions (McLoughlin Bay and Cumshewa Inlet), there will be non-retention of coho by-catch in commercial fisheries targeted at all other species. Similarly, there will be no directed commercial fisheries for WCVI chinook salmon. In addition, commercial fisheries will be closed when coho stocks of concern and/or WCVI chinook salmon are present in unacceptably large numbers. This determination will remain a matter of judgement by fisheries managers in- season.

In the recreational fishery, a number of special management zones will be identified throughout the south coast, where recreational fishing for coho and possession of coho is prohibited (although, as in past years, the selective retention of hatchery marked coho may be permitted in some areas and at some times). In addition, a conservation corridor, where recreational salmon fishing is prohibited, will be maintained off the WCVI during the migration period for WCVI chinook salmon.

Outside of these restricted areas, directed recreational fisheries for coho and chinook salmon will be maintained subject to daily bag limits appropriate to the relative abundance of the stocks and the provision of reasonable fishing opportunities. In 2001, anticipated recreational limits are two per day and a possession limit of four for both chinook and coho salmon. Reduced limits

Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Page 3 of 11 and/or additional restrictions on retention size will be applied as necessary on a local basis to meet conservation objectives and to address First Nations needs. Coho limits may also be increased in selected areas depending upon abundance, but in keeping with the allocation policy, limits will not exceed four per day and eight in possession.

Due to the overall low impact of recreational fishing on sockeye, pink and chum salmon stocks, in 2001 retention of these species in the recreational fishery is anticipated in most tidal and some non-tidal areas subject to possession limits of:

a) Tidal Waters: a daily limit of four salmon with a possession limit of eight salmon. b) Non-Tidal Waters (adults): a daily limit of two salmon with a possession limit of four salmon.

Specific recreational closures, reduced limits or non-retention of these species by recreational fishers will be applied on a local area basis as necessary to meet conservation goals and address First Nations needs. Also, recreational limits may be increased in selected areas if in-season abundance is greater than anticipated.

Details of the management regimes including the identification of special management zones for coho and the conservation corridor for WCVI chinook will be outlined in the 2001 IFMP for pacific salmon. 1.4. Selective Fishing To encourage selective fishing:

a) A portion of the total available commercial catch will be set aside for existing commercial licence holders to test alternative, more selective harvesting gear and technology. b) Over time, commercial allocations will favour those that can demonstrate their ability to fish selectively.

For the last two years, up to 5% of the total commercial catch has been made available to commercial licence holders to experiment with alternative fishing gear and technology. In addition, considerable funding has been made available through the Canadian Fisheries Adjustment and Restructuring program (CFAR) to assist proponents in the development and testing of more selective fishing techniques and technology.

In 2001, up to 5% of the total available commercial catch will continue to be made available to further test selective fishing opportunities. The calculation and allocation of the 5% available catch will be according to the following procedures:

Page 4 of 11 Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan a) The 5% available commercial catch will be estimated on a coast-wide basis using pre- season forecasts broken down by species but will not be further broken down (e.g. by gear type or area). b) This forecast of available catch by species will be allocated through a formal structured process of rating and ranking selective fishing project proposals by a selection committee made up of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, provincial government, First Nations and commercial harvester representatives. c) The amount allocated to individual projects will generally be sufficient to cover estimated project expenses such as vessel costs, fuel and equipment. Additional project expenses such as observers, data analysis and reporting for the projects will be considered for funding out of other departmental (CFAR) resources.

In 2001, it is anticipated that proposals will be accepted for a narrower range of activities than in past years. Previous efforts have now clearly identified the priorities requiring further work and this has been reflected in the project selection criteria and the rating and ranking process for project acceptance.

At this time, no selectivity adjustments will be made to target allocations for commercial troll, gill net and seine gear. In keeping with the recently released “Policy for Selective Fishing in Canada’s Pacific Fisheries”, by January 2003 selective fishing standards and time lines for adherence will be established, in consultation with harvesters, for each of these commercial fisheries. Where these established standards are not met within the established time frames, and by-catches prevent the achievement of conservation objectives, fishing opportunities will be subsequently curtailed. The Allocation and Licensing Board, when established may be tasked with providing advice on these matters. 1.5. Commercial Gear Allocations Target allocations for the commercial sector will be:

a) Established on a coast-wide basis by gear, with the catch expressed on a sockeye equivalent basis. b) Subject to adjustments over time to account for conservation needs, including selective fishing, and possible changes resulting from the voluntary salmon Licence Retirement Program.

Coast-wide commercial sector target allocations for the 2001 salmon fishery are unchanged from 2000. These specific target allocations are 38% gill net, 22% troll and 40% seine expressed on a sockeye equivalent basis. These target allocations reflect the initial target allocations established in the allocation policy (34% gill net, 24% troll and 42% seine) with adjustments (consistent with the approach outlined in the allocation policy) to account for changes in fleet distribution resulting from the 1999/2000 voluntary Salmon Licence Retirement Program.

Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Page 5 of 11 After addressing conservation requirements, First Nations allocation priorities, the recreational priority to directed fisheries on chinook and coho salmon and selective fishing goals, these coast-wide target allocations have been used to shape the development of pre-season fishing plans and associated licence area allocations by gear and species.

Although best efforts will be made to achieve these coast-wide allocation targets, no guarantees are offered that target allocations will actually be achieved in any given year. The achievement of these targets will depend upon the ability to fish selectively and the conservation needs of the resource. In the event that target allocations are not achieved, no compensatory adjustments will be made to future allocations. Specifically, as in 2000, “catch up/make up” adjustments to future target allocations will not be considered in the event that a gear type does not meet its target allocation.

The following specific operational guidelines for 2001 are noted:

a) Individual licence holders and groups of licence holders will not be permitted to make their own allocation transfer arrangements. b) As in 2000, there will be no directed commercial fisheries for Fraser River sockeye or Fraser River pink salmon in the north (i.e. area licence categories A, C and F). c) Harvest from both full and limited fleet exploratory and assessment fisheries intended to obtain information that will benefit a specific fleet will be considered part of the allocation of the fleet conducting the exploratory fishery. d) Harvest from experimental or demonstration fisheries, designed to test (new or modified) more selective fishing gear and methods, will be considered part of the 5% allocation set aside to encourage selective fishing. e) The target allocations for gill net D and gill net E area licences will attempt to equalise the relative average catch per licence in sockeye equivalents. f) The target allocations for troll G and troll H area licences will attempt to equalise the relative average catch per licence in sockeye equivalents. g) If after spawning escapement objectives are met, and despite best efforts, it becomes apparent that an area licence group is unable to achieve its target allocation, subject to conservation requirements, uncaught balances will be given first to the same gear type in a different licence area and, second to different gear types in a manner that reflects their relative target allocations;

It is noted that these are not fixed entitlements but are a projection of available fishing opportunities given present forecasts of stock abundance and best efforts to achieve coast-wide target allocations by gear type. These represent the intentions of fisheries management if abundance is as expected and all other things are equal. However, in many cases in-season adjustments will be necessary to address conservation concerns or other unforeseen events.

Page 6 of 11 Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan 1.6. Pilot Sales and Excess Salmon to Spawning Requirements Fisheries: In 2001, First Nations will continue to be eligible to participate in pilot sales fisheries in Skeena River (ESSR), the Lower Fraser River and Alberni Inlet on the WCVI. The program will not be expanded beyond these three geographic areas.

Individual First Nations sales fisheries in all three areas will be conditional on formal agreements between First Nations and Fisheries and Oceans Canada with respect to the provisions for the pilot sales fishery. These agreements will set out, among other things, agreed upon harvest allocations, harvesting arrangements and provisions for catch monitoring and enforcement.

Pilot Sales fisheries on the Skeena River will continue to be managed in accordance with present ESSR policy. As with other ESSR fisheries, fishing opportunities on the Skeena River will depend upon the identification of surpluses after other fisheries (First Nations, recreational and commercial) have been accommodated. Skeena River fisheries will continue to be managed to minimise the surpluses to ESSR fisheries while addressing conservation concerns.

In the Lower Fraser and Alberni Inlet, Fisheries and Oceans Canada will continue to work with First Nations to implement operational regimes that will accord pilot sales fisheries in these areas the same priority as commercial fisheries. Specifically, the following operational guidelines will be followed:

a) No priority will be accorded to either the pilot sales fisheries or regular commercial fisheries with respect to the commencement and timing of fishing.

The commencement and timing of the fisheries will be determined by practical management considerations including stock abundance, migration rate and timing, harvest objectives and the capacity of each fleet. These considerations may imply that the fishery (commercial or pilot sales) with lower impact on the target stocks may precede the other (particularly in a typical run with lower abundance during its early stages). Similarly, regular commercial fisheries in marine areas (on the same stock or stock timing group) may precede regular commercial fisheries and/or pilot sales fisheries in more terminal (estuarine or in-river) areas.

a) Continued efforts will be made to make pilot sales fisheries and regular commercial fisheries equally selective.

Pilot sales fisheries using the same gear and fishing methods will ordinarily be subject to the same selective fishing requirements as regular commercial fisheries (for example, subject to non- retention of coho and the use of recovery boxes). Where different gear and methods are used, demonstrated ability to harvest selectively will be taken into account. More selective fisheries (commercial or pilot sales) may be allowed to proceed when others are closed to protect co- migrating non-target species.

Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Page 7 of 11 2. 2001 ANTICIPATED COMMERCIAL ALLOCATIONS BY LICENCE AREA AND SPECIES

This section describes anticipated licence area allocations for each gear type and for each species of salmon. These anticipated licence area allocations are intended to guide fishing arrangements at the local level and are not fixed entitlements. Application of these sharing arrangements is subject to meeting all conservation objectives, First Nations obligations, international commitments, deliverability and manageability constraints and other management considerations including all conservation measures currently in effect. Where appropriate (e.g. Skeena, Nass and Fraser River sockeye), the potential harvest identified is a range that reflects the most recent PSARC approved forecasts for each stock grouping at a 50% and 75% probability level. In other cases, the potential harvest represents the informed point estimate of fisheries managers based upon historic average return rates and available PSARC approved analysis. 2.1. North Coast

2.1.1. Sockeye Areas Potential Seine A Gillnet C Troll F Harvest (pieces) 1, 3-5 and 101 to 1,150,000 to 24% 74% 2% 105 2,450,000 6 to 8 3,000 25% 75% 0% 9 to 10 0 Fraser River N/A N/A N/A Sockeye 2.1.2. Pink Areas Potential Seine A Gillnet C Troll F Harvest (pieces) 1, 2 (even), 3 to 5 2,000,000 70% 20% 10% and 101 to 105 6 to 10 450,000 87% 8% 5%

a) A troll catch of Skeena/Nass/SE Alaska pink salmon in Area 1 will be explored in 2001. b) Troll opportunities will be provided in Areas 6-10 in the 2001 season. 2.1.3. Chum Areas Potential Seine A Gillnet C Troll F Harvest (pieces)

Page 8 of 11 Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Areas Potential Seine A Gillnet C Troll F Harvest (pieces) 1,2,101 to 111, 115,000 52% 28% 20% 130 and 142 3 to 5 65,000 45% 55% 0% 6 to 10 560,000 51% 44% 5%

a) Allocation arrangements in Areas 6 to 10 have been adjusted from the 1991-1994 plan to reflect recent actual catches. Troll opportunities will be provided in 2001. 2.1.4. Coho Areas Potential Seine A Gillnet C Troll F Harvest (pieces) 1 to 10 5,000 45% 45% 10%

a) There are no directed coho fisheries on the North Coast of B.C., and there is non retention of coho in all fisheries targeted at other species except for a few defined locations such as Cumshewa Inlet and near McLoughlin Bay (surplus hatchery production). 2.1.5. Chinook Areas Potential Seine A Gillnet C Troll F Harvest (pieces) 1 to 10 45,000 0% 50% 50%

a) There are no directed chinook fisheries on the North Coast of B.C. for the seine fleet. Directed gill net fisheries occur in Areas 4 and 8 and there is some by-catch in other north coast fisheries. Troll fishing plans are tentative and are subject to further consultation and analysis. 2.2. South Coast

2.2.1. Sockeye Areas Potential Seine B Gillnet D Gillnet E Troll G Troll H Harvest (pieces) Area 23 30,000 50% 34% 16%

Fraser 1,300,000 44% 14.5% 20.5% 11% 10% River to

Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Page 9 of 11 Sockeye 5,700,000

a) Area 23 sockeye: If due to manageability concerns the seine target catch can not be harvested, efforts will be made to redistribute the foregone harvest to the Area D and G fishing fleet as per the terms set out in Principle 7 of the Allocation Policy for Pacific Salmon. 2.2.2. Pink Areas Potential Seine B Gillnet D Gillnet E Troll G Troll H Harvest (pieces) Fraser 300,000 60% 4% 1% 22% 13% River Mainland 0 73% 9% 0% 0% 18% Inlets (A12)

a) Mainland inlet sharing arrangements will apply only if unanticipated harvest opportunities arise. 2.2.3. Chum Areas Potential Seine B Gillnet D Gillnet E Troll G Troll H Harvest (pieces) 11 to 19 150,000 63% 19% 12% 0% 6% and 28 to 29 21 to 22 0 49% 49% 2% 23 to 27 20,000 0% 98% 0% 2% 0%

a) The Chum Clockwork Management strategy is under review and will likely be completed prior to the 2001 chum season. Available TAC’s will be directly affected by the outcome of this review. b) The catch in Areas 12 and 13 (not including Bute Inlet) should be 18% gill net/82% seine, with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to manage the fishery so as to allow gill nets to obtain their 18% allocation. The chum clockwork assessment fishery will not take place this year and any surplus will be harvested after October 1, 2001. c) Nitinat Chum (Areas 21 and 22) sharing arrangements provide an opportunity for area G licence holders to harvest stocks produced in the geographical area for which they are licensed. For the 2001 season, area G trollers will continue to be allocated a small portion of these local stocks. d) The following guidelines will apply to the Nitinat chum net allocations (Area 21 to 22) reflect allocations of 50% gill net/50% seine for up to 400,000 pieces. As in

Page 10 of 11 Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan the past, the gill net fleet will attempt to take their portion of 400,000 pieces before the seine fishery commences. Available harvest beyond 400,000 would be opened to both gears simultaneously, however no surpluses are expected in 2001. e) For the WCVI chums (i.e. Nootka Sound) seine opportunities will be considered when large TAC’s are identified. 2.2.4. Coho Areas Potential Seine B Gillnet D Gillnet E Troll G Troll H Harvest (pieces) 11 to 20 0 0 0 0 0 0 and 29 21 to 27, 0 0 0 0 0 0 121 and 123 to 127

a) There are no directed coho fisheries on the South Coast of B.C., and there is non- retention of coho in all fisheries targeted at other species. 2.2.5. Chinook Areas Harvest Seine B Gillnet D Gillnet E Troll G Troll H Forecast (pieces) 11 to 20 5,500 5% 80% 15% and 29 21 to 27 78,000 100% and 121 to 127

a) Troll area H catch of chinook is by-catch taken during sockeye fishery. b) Areas 21-27, 121 and 123 to 127: Approximately 3,000 chinook were harvested in a limited November 2000 through March 2001 assessment fishery. A further 25,000 piece harvest is anticipated in the spring of 2001. Another 50,000 chinook may be harvested by the area G troll fleet after October of 2001, subject to a review of the results from three-year pilot project. c) All catch during the calendar year of 2001 will be accounted for in the 2001 allocation plan.

Appendix 1: 2001 Pacific Salmon Allocation Implementation Plan Page 11 of 11 Appendix 2: Salmon Logbook Examples

Appendix 2: Salmon Logbook Examples Page 1 of 3 Page 2 of 3 Appendix 2: Salmon Logbook Examples Appendix 2: Salmon Logbook Examples Page 3 of 3 Appendix 3: West Coast of Vancouver Island Chinook Stock Status and Rebuilding Prospects

1. WEST COAST OF VANCOUVER ISLAND CHINOOK STATUS

In 2000, the terminal return of chinook to the Stamp River/RCH indicator stock was estimated to be 6,440 adult (age 3 and older) chinook, plus 2,970 age two males (jacks). The adult return represented an 80% decline from the 1999 return level and one of the lowest returns since the inception of the indicator stock program in 1985. The egg deposition by natural spawners in the Stamp River was estimated to be approximately 10 million, well below the 50 million base level (Figure 1).

Returns to another 22 West Coast of Vancouver Island (WCVI) streams that were monitored for chinook spawning escapements, including seven Pacific Salmon Treaty indicators (Figure 2), also declined considerably from 1999 levels. Over all these systems, the decline was approximately 60%. The overall age composition was very similar to that in the Stamp River/RCH terminal run.

The returns in 2000 confirmed the extremely low survival of three consecutive brood years, including 1995, 1996 and 1997 (Figure 3). Based on age two “jack” chinook returns, an improvement in survival is evident for the 1998 brood.

In 2000 the total fishing mortality on age four and older RCH/Stamp chinook in all BC recreational fisheries was estimated at approximately 6% .

2. OUTLOOK FOR 2001

In 2001, the number of spawning females, and the resulting eggs, is expected to be less than levels in 2000. The resulting level of egg deposition to the Stamp River/RCH will be substantially below the base period level (approximately 20% of base). The expected number of eggs would be the lowest on record since 1985, when the indicator stock program began. The more serious concern for conservation is the expected returns of females to the naturally spawning chinook populations along the WCVI. It is expected that only 20% of the 2001 returns will be females. This suggests that many chinook populations along the WCVI will have less than 100 females. Severe restrictions are required to ensure sufficient female spawners in WCVI rivers.

However, due to a large age three component the total return of chinook to the WCVI rivers is expected to increase by more than double relative to 2000. For year 2000, the total return of Stamp River/RCH chinook to the terminal area of Barkley Sound is forecasted to be 14,000 chinook with a mean absolute percent error of 10%. The age structure of the return is projected to be 78% age three, 9% age four, and 13% age five; with an expected sex ratio of 20% females.

Appendix 3: WCVI Chinook Stock Status and Rebuilding Prospects Page 1 of 4 3. MANAGEMENT

The Stamp River/RCH indicator stock provides the basis for determining management actions to achieve conservation requirements for WCVI chinook stocks in general. A minimum escapement level was established for spawners in the Stamp River. The intent of achieving this minimum level through management of ocean and terminal fisheries is to provide a safe level of natural spawners in the other WCVI populations. The minimum escapement level for the Stamp River was determined as (due to variation in age composition and sex ratio between years, the level has been expressed as eggs required):

a) 50 million eggs for natural spawning in the Stamp River. b) 9.3 million eggs for Robertson Creek Hatchery. c) A 1:1 sex ratio for spawning guidelines within the hatchery. d) An expected 20% pre-spawning mortality.

The upper end of the management range was set at double the spawners during the base period (immediately prior to the Pacific Salmon Treaty, 1984 for the Stamp River spawners, and the 1979 to 1982 average for the escapement indicator stocks). These management “target zones” are shown in Figures 1 and 2.

At the run sizes predicted for Stamp River/RCH chinook in 2000, the minimum escapement level will not be met. As a result, impact in Canadian fisheries will be limited to 5%.

Due to the far-northerly distribution of WCVI chinook, Canada’s ability to conserve WCVI chinook can be limited by the large proportion of the catch that can occur in Alaska.

4. OUTLOOK BEYOND 2001

The occurrence of three consecutive brood years with poor survival will require reduction in fishery impacts through 2002. Improved survival of the 1998 brood, which will be age four in 2002, may result in significant improvements. Predictions of 2002 returns will be available in early 2002.

WCVI chinook populations are capable of rebuilding in short periods. Examination of historic returns and survival rates (Figures 1-3) indicates that poor returns generally do not perpetuate into the future. Within a single life cycle, poor returns rebounded to fishable levels. This capability for rebuilding is mainly a result of:

a) The multiple age structure of returns, spread over three to four years. b) High fecundity (number of eggs) in the larger fish. c) The intrinsic productivity of WCVI chinook as indicated by some very high survival rates.

In addition, this capability for rebuilding is dependent on the following factors:

Page 2 of 4 Appendix 3: WCVI Chinook Stock Status and Rebuilding Prospects a) Availability of suitable freshwater habitat. b) Sufficient spawners to produce smolts. c) Condition of the ocean and early marine survival rate; an. d) Exploitation rates in ocean fisheries.

With current restrictions on fisheries to ensure sufficient spawners, and recent improvements in ocean conditions and marine survival rate, it is probable that WCVI chinook could quickly rebuild above base levels (probably with one cycle).

Figure 1: Chinook Eggs Deposition in the Stamp River, 1985 To 2000

250.0

200.0

150.0

100.0

Millions of Eggs Management Target Zone 50.0

0.0 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 Return Year

Figure 2: Chinook Escapement to Seven PSC Escapement Indicator Stocks

16000

14000

12000 Target Escapement Level

10000

8000

6000 Base Level Total Escapement

4000

2000

0 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 Return Year

Appendix 3: WCVI Chinook Stock Status and Rebuilding Prospects Page 3 of 4 Figure 3: Robertson Creek Hatchery Chinook, Cohort Survival Rate to Age Two

Most recent brood years are based on incomplete returns from brood.

20% 18% 16% 14% 12% 10% 8% 6% 4% 2% 0% 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 Brood Year

Page 4 of 4 Appendix 3: WCVI Chinook Stock Status and Rebuilding Prospects Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules

1. FRASER RIVER SOCKEYE

1.1. General Fraser River sockeye are managed (for the past 16 years) in four stock aggregates. These are, Early Stuart, Early Summer, Summer, and Late Run. Table 1 gives a summary of the sockeye stocks within each aggregate. 1.2. Escapement Strategy Escapement targets are set for each stock aggregate. Two levels of escapement targets have been used to sustain Fraser River sockeye stocks. These are long term “Interim Escapement Goals” and annual escapement plans that work toward meeting the long-term interim goals. 1.2.1. Interim Escapement Goals In 1987, Interim escapement goals (see Table 1) were established as targets to be reached in three to six cycles (12 to 24 years). These targets are part of the long-term plan to rebuild Fraser River sockeye stocks. 1.2.2. Annual Escapement Plans Recognizing that not all the long-term interim escapement goals can be achieved in the short term and that not all cycle years are the same, annual escapement plans are developed that work toward the long-term interim goals.

For 2001, the escapement plan incorporates a combination of fixed escapement goals with variable harvest rates at differing run sizes. To facilitate an increase in sockeye salmon production in the Fraser River, the maximum harvest rate from previous years was reduced from 75-85% to 65-70%. This change is the result of a scientific review of historical catch and escapement information for the four stock groups. Table 2 describes the process used to establishment Fraser River sockeye escapement targets and management priorities. Table 3 summarizes the 2001 escapement plan which wherever possible reflects advice received from stakeholders. 1.3. Priorities and Constraints

1.3.1. Other Stocks Fraser River sockeye harvest plans will take into consideration conservation objectives for other stocks. In 2001, sockeye fisheries will be constrained by the need to meet conservation objectives for Thompson River coho and WCVI chinook.

Fisheries management regimes will be designed to minimize impacts on Thompson River coho in a manner similar to the past three years, which

Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules Page 1 of 8 have resulted in exploitation rates of between 2% to 3% in Canadian fisheries.

Similar to 2000, management regimes will be developed that limit the overall exploitation of WCVI chinook in all Canadian fisheries to 5% or less. 1.3.2. Fraser River Sockeye Stocks In working toward achieving the annual escapement goals and long-term rebuilding objectives and to provide for sustainable harvesting practices, the following priorities and constraints have been identified for the 2001 season:

1.3.2.1. Early Stuart Stock Aggregate

If the Early Stuart run size is less than 75,000, all fisheries will close. At higher levels of abundance, the objective is to follow the 2001 escapement plan, which attempts to maintain the brood year escapements as a minimum.

1.3.2.2. Early Summer Stock Aggregate

"Window" closures are being considered as an in-season management action because of the relatively low forecast for this stock aggregate. These closures will be based on historical migration timing. If the “window” closure approach is adopted details will be provided prior to the 2001 season.

1.3.2.3. Summer Run Stock Aggregate

In the last few cycles this stock aggregate has consistently reached both annual and long-term interim escapement goals. Based on the pre-season forecast for strong returns, there is a high probability that a 65-70% harvest rate will still provide for meeting the annual and long-term escapement goals. Fisheries management regimes will be implemented that work toward maximising the harvest of available summer run surpluses, but that also work towards meeting critical escapement objectives for early summer and late run sockeye.

1.3.2.4. Late run stock aggregate

In recent years, there has been a persistent problem of early entry into the Fraser River and subsequent pre-spawning mortality of late run sockeye. The early entry into freshwater in conjunction with the identification of a microscopic organism found in these sockeye populations was determined to be the cause.

Page 2 of 8 Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules It is uncertain whether this phenomenon will continue, but the Fraser River Panel and the department will continue to manage late run sockeye in a risk averse and precautionary manner. In order to ensure that escapement targets are met, extensive fishery closures are being considered as a possible management tool. 1.4. Management Adjustments

1.4.1. Management Adjustments to Mission Hydroacoustic Estimates Hydroacoustic abundance estimates at Mission, on the lower Fraser River, are a major component of the in-season management program carried out by the Pacific Salmon Commission (PSC). The sockeye passing Mission, referred to as gross escapement, include individuals which are subsequently removed as catch or die from other causes as well as those that eventually reach the spawning grounds.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada independently estimates in-river catch above Mission and spawning escapements. For Early Stuart and Early Summer stocks there is a considerable discrepancy between the number of sockeye that pass Mission and the final catch and escapement estimates. There is no evidence of consistent bias for Summer sockeye, and insufficient data exists to compare the estimates for the Late run. The causes for these discrepancies between Mission and in-river abundance estimates are difficult to verify, but adverse migratory conditions and biases in stock identification are probable factors.

Regardless of the causes, a management adjustment to the Early Stuart and Early Summer run stock aggregates will be made to allow for additional sockeye (beyond the 2001 escapement goal) to pass through the mission echo sounding site. The details for determining specific management adjustments for 2001 are not yet finalized. However, these adjustments will be made prior to the season to ensure that the number of fish reaching the spawning grounds meets escapement objectives. 1.4.2. Management Adjustments Due to Fraser River Environmental Conditions Fraser River sockeye stocks faced extremely high water flow in 1997 and 1999, and low flows combined with high temperatures in 1998. Early Stuart and Early Summer runs in particular have experienced significant en-route and pre-spawning mortality due to these extreme environmental conditions. Concerns are growing that dry weather and low winter snow packs throughout B.C. could once again result in below-normal flows and higher-than-normal temperatures in many streams and rivers this spring and summer.

The department’s Environmental Watch Program collects water level and water temperature data throughout the Fraser River watershed beginning in early June. For the 2001 season, precautionary management

Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules Page 3 of 8 adjustments may be necessary to achieve escapement targets. Management actions will depend upon:

a) Weekly Environmental Watch reports provided by Fisheries and Oceans Canada Science Branch. These reports will also be posted on the web-site located at:

www.sci.info.pac.dfo.ca/fwh/Ewatch_home.htm

b) Daily scientific assessments of environmental conditions conducted by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and communicated to the Bilateral Fraser River Panel meetings.

Table 1: Fraser River sockeye interim spawning escapement goals by cycle year.

Stock Stock 1997 1998 1999 2000 group Early Stuart Early Stuart 500,000 200,000 280,000 200,000 Early Summer Bowron 45,000 45,000 45,000 45,000 Fennel 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 Gates 21,000 21,000 21,000 21,000 Nadina 35,000 35,000 35,000 35,000 Upper Pitt 69,000 69,000 69,000 69,000 Raft 13,000 13,000 13,000 13,000 Scotch 84,000 84,000 84,000 84,000 Seymour 117,000 117,000 117,000 117,000 Miscellaneous Subtotal 399,000 399,000 399,000 399,000 Summer Chilko River 100,000 600,000 600,000 600,000 Chilko Lake 224,000 224,000 224,000 224,000 Quesnel system 2,200,000 2,200,000 250,000 250,000 Late Stuart 500,000 300,000 200,000 50,000 Stellako 100,000 300,000 300,000 300,000 Sub-total 3,124,000 3,624,000 1,574,000 1,424,000 Late Adams 100,000 2,300,000 2,300,000 100,000 Lower Shuswap 50,000 1,200,000 1,200,000 50,000

Page 4 of 8 Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules Stock Stock 1997 1998 1999 2000 group Birkenhead 300,000 300,000 300,000 300,000 Weaver 50,000 50,000 50,000 50,000 Cultus 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 Portage 8,000 8,000 8,000 8,000 Miscellaneous 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 Sub-total 664,000 4,014,000 4,014,000 664,000 Total 4,687,000 8,237,000 6,267,000 2,687,000

Table 2: Process for establishment of Fraser River sockeye escapement targets and management priorities.

Produce forecasts of a) These are done at both the 50% and 75% returns. probability levels. b) For planning purposes harvest management contingencies are developed for both forecast levels. c) To initiate the season the 75% probability forecast is used as a reference point.

Set escapement a) Based on rebuilding plan projections and targets: schedule of escapements at ranges of run sizes; strategy based on 65% to 75% harvest rate range. b) Apply harvest rates to the forecast to derive the escapement target. c) Compare to brood year escapement to ensure it is not stepping back, except in the case where the brood year exceeded the interim goal and except in extraordinary instances. d) If the forecast is less than the lowest step in the rebuilding schedule, then apply a harvest rate without going below the brood year escapement.

Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules Page 5 of 8 Set floors and ceilings a) Floors and ceilings provide a range of of escapement. acceptable escapements if actual runs are different from forecast. b) Floors were based on the rebuilding schedule or brood year escapement, which ever was less. c) The approach provides flexibility to adjust to lower than anticipated run sizes but maintains the rebuilding objective. d) If runs are not rebuilding to the level expected by the rebuilding plan, then a minimum level was chosen to provide for an increase in stock size. e) Special case situations will be dealt with separately. f) The ceiling is the interim goal plus 30%.

Identify priorities. a) Based on current production levels and potential for increases in production judgement as to how to make tradeoffs between stocks and generally achieve rebuilding objectives

Page 6 of 8 Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules Table 3. Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon escapement target plan (in thousands) for 2001.

2001 Plan Cycle year adult escapement estimates Forecast Escapement Harvest rate Harvest rate Interim Stock group Return (a) Range of returns target plan at forecast 1981 1985 1989 1993 1997(b) goal

Sockeye

Early Stuart 0 - 75 0% 138 238 385 688 266 500 258 76 - 380 0 to 30% 19% 420 381 - 760 30 to 65% 37% >760 0-75 65-70%

Early Summer 0 - 105 - Max 15% 85 46 63 86 89 400 107 / 202 106 - 254 89 15 to 65% 17%, 56% >254 - 65-70%

Summer 0 - 4,463 - 0 to 30% 1,054 1,738 2,557 5,072 3,807 3,124 6,159 4,464 - 8,926 3,124 30 to 65% 49% 11,714 >8,926 - 65-70% 65-70%

Late 0 - 217 - Max 15% 114 59 59 356 90 664 273 / 528 218 - 528 185 15 to 65% 33%, 65% >528 - 65-70%

Totals 6,797 3,605 47% 1,391 2,081 3,064 6,202 4,252 4,688 12,864 4,640 64% 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 Pink 4,049 / 5,468 0 - 7,059 - Max 15% 7,060 - 17,143 6,000 15 to 65% 12,949 10,775 7,291 2,890 3,453 >17,143 - 65-70% a. At the 75% and 50% probability levels that the actual run size will exceed the specified forecast. b. Near final and subject to change.

Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules Page 7 of 8 1. FRASER RIVER PINK

1.1. General Fraser River pinks are managed as part of the aggregate of Southern Bound pink stocks. Southern Bound pinks stocks include Strait of Georgia, Fraser River and some Washington State pinks runs. Historically, Fraser River pinks are the major component of these stocks. 1.2. Escapement Strategy Despite the historical trend of strong returns on odd year cycles, the Fraser River pink forecast for 2001 indicates that the run size will be lower than the escapement target (See Table 3). It is expected that there will be no directed commercial fisheries on this stock group. Some incidental catch of pinks will be permitted during fisheries that target Fraser River sockeye stocks. 1.3. Priorities and Constraints The Fraser River pink harvest plan will take into consideration the conservation objectives for Thompson River coho, which have been identified as a stock of significant concern requiring special management attention.

Due to the overlap of migration timing with Late Run sockeye, it is anticipated that conservation measures taken to protect Late Run sockeye will serve to minimize any harvest of Fraser River pinks.

Page 8 of 8 Appendix 5: Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Management Decision Rules Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas

Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas Page 1 of 8 Page 2 of 8 Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas Page 3 of 8 Page 4 of 8 Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas Page 5 of 8 Page 6 of 8 Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas Page 7 of 8 Page 8 of 8 Appendix 6: Maps of Commercial Salmon Licence Areas