Sport Fishing Institute of BC January 2013 Update
Posted on January 29th 2013, by Sport Fishing Institute of BC
It has been relatively quiet on the industry front over the holidays, but there have been a few developments that we'd like to report on.
2012 Big Splash
The SFI held its annual industry policy conference and fundraiser in early December and saw a large turnout of industry participants and those interested in sport fishing issues. DFO provided its annual salmon outlook which suggested that anglers can, on balance, expect similar salmon returns in 2013 as they saw in 2012.
Halibut allocation was a hot topic once again, but DFO appeared to have few answers to the many questions surrounding its plans to expand the quota-lease pilot program. Of particular interest was a presentation and panel discussion on First Nations participation in the sport fishing industry. The discussion covered the range of First nations growing involvement in the sector which can only serve to strengthen and diversify the kinds of fishing opportunities the industry offers to anglers.
CTAG Update
The Certified Tidal Angling Guide program continues to grow and assessment applications for experienced guides seeking to challenge the program are now available for the 2013 season. In addition to the range of benefits that guides will gain from CTAG certification, successful guides continue to be eligible for training tax credits.
IPHC Update
As we write this note, the annual International Pacific Halibut Commission meeting is wrapping up in Victoria. The recreational sector was well represented at this year's meeting and know that the Canadian delegation took a unanimous position ensuring that Canada is able to harvest its entire Total Allowable Catch in 2013. We still likely face difficult measures in order to ensure a long and predictable season.
The next months will be occupied by trade shows, planning and season preparation for most of those in the sport fishing industry. We wish you well in your preparations and look forward to seeing you on the water soon.
Tight Lines!
For more information contact:
Sport Fishing Institute of BC
604.946.0734
www.sportfishing.bc.ca
info@sportfishing.bc.ca
The SFI Team,
Sport Fishing Institute of British Columbia
