Anglers' Guide 2025-2026 - DFO Angling Enforcement Efforts for Salmon and Trout (NL)

DFO Angling Enforcement Efforts for Salmon and Trout (NL)

In 2024, approximately 60,000 hours were spent on salmon and trout enforcement. Additional compliance and enforcement efforts were provided by Aboriginal inland fisheries enforcement programs.

During the 2024 angling season, a total of 129 salmon and trout violations were detected as a result of DFO’s enforcement efforts. These include charges laid, warnings, seizures from persons unknown (e.g. abandoned nets), and cases that are still under investigation. A total of 25 salmon nets, 69 salmon and trout, 29 rods and reels, 2 boats with motors, 1 rubber dingy and 1 ATV were seized.

DFO receives valuable information from the public and other enforcement agencies, as well as partners. DFO’s association with Crime Stoppers aids in encouraging the public to report poaching and other illegal activity on the rivers. Callers are anonymous and tipsters can earn a cash reward if the tip leads to a conviction.

In 2024, Crime Stoppers Newfoundland and Labrador received 40 tips from the public about illegal fishing activity, 22 of which were directly related to salmon and trout.

Another 37 tips were received from the public through the DFO Tips Line, 12 of which were directly related to salmon and trout.

These tips are an invaluable source of information for fishery officers and guardians, and sometimes lead to charges being laid and convictions being handed down by the courts.

Conservation and Protection, Fisheries and Oceans Canada can be reached directly by calling 1-833-DFO-TIPS (336-8477)