Anglers' Guide 2026-2027 - Additional Resources
Additional Resources
Protect Fish and Fish Habitat When Using Your ATV
Every year, an increasing number of people in Newfoundland and Labrador are enjoying the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), whether it’s to explore the outdoors, haul a load of wood, carry gear to the cabin, or travel to a favourite hunting or fishing spot. An ATV is a great way to travel, but operators should be aware of the potential impacts they can have when crossing rivers and streams.
Below are some fish friendly practices to keep in mind while riding your ATV
A good rule of thumb for ATV riders, as well as operators of any off-road vehicles, is to stay out of the water.
- Steer clear of wetlands, shorelines and waterbodies
- Avoid driving your ATV along beaches and streambanks
- Stick to established hard roads and trails
- Cross streams at bridges only
If you must cross a stream:
- Cross where the approach is stable and has a low slope
- Cross at right angles to the stream
- Limit ATV crossing of a stream to a single location
- Cross where the streambed is made of bedrock or large rubble
- Reduce your speed when crossing
- Avoid areas with vegetated, silty or sandy bottoms
- Keep your ATV in good repair, free of mud, oil and other harmful substances that could impair water quality
- Cross streams during periods of low flow and when water levels are not greater than the ATV axle height
- Do not skid or drag anything across the ford are/stream bottom
All fish are protected under Canada’s Fisheries Act. For further information or to report activity that may result in impacts to fish and fish habitat, please contact the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) at (709)772-4140, by email: DFO.fppnl-ppptnel.MPO@DFO-MPO.GC.CA , or the nearest DFO Detachment Office.
For urgent environmental emergencies, the National Environmental Emergencies Centre (NECC) is available 24/7 by phone 1-866-283-2333/1-800-563-9089 (Newfoundland & Labrador) or by email at cnue-neec@ec.gc.ca.
Safe Boating Messages
All pleasure craft equipped with motors 10 hp or more require either a Pleasure Craft Licence.
Everyone who operates a motorized pleasure craft must carry proof of competency on board, i.e, your Pleasure Craft Operator Card. This includes all motorized boats, no matter the size or horsepower of the engine, including boats with electric motors.
Are you ready for a safe boating trip?
- Always wear your Personal Flotation Device (PFD).
- Check the weather forecast, and ensure your boat is suitable for the environment and conditions.
- Ensure your boat has all the required safety equipment and you know how to use it.
- Leave a sail plan with someone responsible; include details about where you are going and when you’ll be back.
- Be cold water aware. Dress appropriately and in layers.
For Further Safe Boating Information contact Transport Canada, Office of Boating Safety at 1-800-230-3693, obs-atl-bsn@tc.gc.ca, or Office of Boating Safety