Important Restrictions and Guidelines for Boating and Fishing in Victoria Harbour

Overview

Victoria Harbour, located in Canada, is a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. However, it is essential to be aware of the various restrictions and guidelines in place to ensure the safety of all users and protect the marine environment. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the important rules and regulations set by Transport Canada and other authorities for Victoria Harbour. It also highlights specific restrictions for Esquimalt Harbour and the Strait of Georgia.

Victoria Harbour Boating and Fishing Restrictions

Victoria Harbour is subject to specific navigational restrictions and guidelines set by Transport Canada. It is crucial for all boaters and fishermen to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure safe and responsible use of the harbour. The following are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Fishing, including the placement of traps, is strictly prohibited in navigational channels. This rule is in place to maintain safe navigation for all vessels. It is essential to exercise extreme caution while boating in these areas and adhere to Transport Canada’s navigational procedures.

2. Navigation channels must be kept clear of buoys and lines. Any fishing gear that obstructs safe navigation can be removed under the Navigation Protection Act.

3. Refer to the Port of Victoria Traffic Scheme diagram provided by Transport Canada for a detailed understanding of the harbour’s traffic scheme and vessel navigation restrictions. The diagram can be downloaded from Transport Canada’s official website.

4. For a comprehensive list of vessel and navigation restrictions, please review the full text available on Transport Canada’s website. This document provides detailed guidelines on safe boating practices and procedures in public ports, harbours, and anchorages.

Esquimalt Harbour Fishing Closure

Esquimalt Harbour, located in Subarea 19-2, has been closed to all fishing since May 10, 2016, due to a fuel spill. This closure was recommended by Island Health as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the marine environment and human consumption of seafood. The closure will remain in effect until further testing confirms the safety of all species in the area.

Esquimalt Harbour and Approaches Navigation Restrictions

In addition to the fishing closure, Esquimalt Harbour and its approaches are subject to specific navigation restrictions. It is essential for boaters and fishermen to review these guidelines to ensure safe navigation in the harbour and surrounding areas. The following points should be noted:

1. Detailed harbour and vessel navigation restrictions can be found on Canadian Hydrographic Service Chart 3419. This chart provides a visual representation of the restricted areas and navigational requirements.

2. To access more detailed information, visit the official website of Esquimalt Harbour (www.esquimaltharbour.ca). This website provides comprehensive information on harbour regulations, navigational guidelines, and use requirements.

3. Exercise caution while navigating in Esquimalt Harbour and its vicinity. Adhere to all navigational and use requirements to ensure the safety of all users and the protection of the marine environment.

Strait of Georgia Dive Closures

Certain areas of the Strait of Georgia, specifically designated as Area 19, are closed to the harvest of all marine life by divers. This closure is in place to preserve the unique underwater habitat in these waters. It is essential for divers to respect these closures and refrain from harvesting marine life in the designated areas.

Coastwide Gear Restrictions for Crab Fishing

Crab fishing is a popular activity in the coastal waters of Canada. To ensure sustainable crab populations and responsible fishing practices, the following gear restrictions are in place:

1. Fishers are permitted to use a maximum of two ring nets, dip nets, traps, or a combination of these per fisher. It is crucial to properly mark all gear to ensure identification and compliance with regulations.

2. Hand picking of crabs is permitted, including by diving. However, the use of sharp-pointed instruments for harvesting crabs is strictly prohibited.

3. The use of snares in catching or attempting to catch crabs is illegal.

4. All crab traps must have a section in the top or sidewall secured by a single length of untreated cotton twine, commonly known as rot cord. This cord ensures that if the trap is lost, the section secured by the cord will rot, allowing captive crabs to escape. Traps with a rigid frame and hinged lid must also be secured by a single length of untreated cotton twine to ensure the trap lid opens freely when the rot cord is broken.

5. Crab traps are required to have two unobstructed circular escape holes or rings, measuring a minimum of 105 mm in diameter. These escape holes allow undersized or non-target species of crabs to exit the trap.

6. The primary float attached to crab traps must be cylindrical in shape, with a minimum length of 27 cm and a diameter of 12 cm. An optional secondary float may be used, which can be of any shape or size other than spherical. For prawn and shrimp traps, the primary float must be spherical, with a minimum diameter of 27 cm. Again, an optional secondary float may be used, but it should not be cylindrical in shape. All floats must be made of durable material suitable for marine waters.

Daily Limits and Time of Day Restrictions for Crab Fishing

When crab fishing in Canada, it is important to adhere to certain catch limits and time of day restrictions. The following guidelines apply:

1. The combined daily limit for Dungeness crab, red rock crab, box crab, Puget Sound king crab, and all other king crab species is four.

2. It is illegal to set or haul crab traps from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise. Overnight soaking of traps, however, is allowed during these hours.

Specific Restrictions for Crab Fishing in Sidney/Cordova Channels

The Sidney/Cordova Channels, bounded by specific geographical points, have additional gear restrictions for crab fishing. These restrictions aim to enhance visibility and improve safety in the area. The following guidelines apply:

1. Use brightly colored buoys with a diameter of 27 cm or larger in Sidney and Cordova Channels. Commercial and recreational crab fishers are currently testing larger buoys in these channels to improve visibility.

Specific Restrictions for Herring Fillets Sydney

Herring fillets Sydney are a popular seafood item. It is important to ensure that the herring fillets are sourced from reputable and sustainable fisheries. When purchasing or consuming herring fillets in Sydney, consider the following:

1. Look for herring fillets sourced from reliable suppliers who follow sustainable fishing practices. This ensures the long-term health of herring populations and the marine ecosystem.

2. Check for proper labeling and certification indicating that the herring fillets are sourced responsibly and meet quality standards.

3. When cooking or preparing herring fillets, ensure proper handling and storage to maintain their freshness and taste.

4. Herring fillets Sydney can be enjoyed in various recipes, such as grilled, baked, or pan-seared. Experiment with different flavors and cooking methods to enhance the taste of this delicious seafood.

In conclusion, Victoria Harbour and its surrounding areas have specific restrictions and guidelines in place to ensure safe and responsible boating and fishing practices. By familiarizing yourself with these regulations and adhering to them, you can enjoy your time on the water while protecting the marine environment.