Conservation & Access
The VSFGA is actively engaged in volunteer and consultative efforts in support of salmon conservation and continued access for the recreational fishery in Vancouver, British Columbia. Below are some of the key areas of focus for the association.
DNA Sampling - Avid Angler Program
Collecting DNA samples from Chinook & Coho throughout Area 28 & 29
Submission to Department of Fisheries & Oceans (DFO) Scientists for analysis
Annual reviews with DFO Scientists to discuss area results and trends
Provides critical data necessary to support science based retention & conservation opportunities for recreational fishers
Vancouver Port Authority & Capilano Fishery
Annual meetings with Vancouver Port Authority to support continued recreational fishery access to the Capilano river mouth area
Continued interaction with the Port Authority to address safety concerns between commercial & recreational vessel traffic
Highlighting the importance of the Capilano mouth public fishery to recreational sport fishers
Ensuring our membership continues to operate in a safe manner following the expectations of the Port Authority & commuicating this to the recreational community
capilano net pen project
Initiative launched to determine survivability rates between smolts released in-river verses those released from an ocean based DFO net pen
50% of hatchery smolts released in Capilano & 50% are maintained in, & ultimately released from, the ocean based net pen
VSFGA members volunteer time with DFO & Capilano Hatchery staff to feed net pen smolts twice per day while collecting water temperature & salinity data
Using coded wire tags from returning mature Chinook & Coho, survival rates are calculated
Annual results & trends are reviewed with VSFGA membership
Howe Sound Glass Sponge Reefs
Representing the Vancouver recreational sport fishery during glass sponge reef discussions
Promoting collaborative decisions that recognize the importance of public fishery opportunities within Howe Sound
Supporting & encouraging coexistence between sponge reef protection and a thriving recreational fishery
Reference Links to Sport Fishing Enhancement Organizations in BC
Public Fishery Alliance https://publicfisheryalliance.ca
Pacific Salmon Foundation https://psf.ca
Sport Fishing Institute of BC https://sportfishing.bc.ca
Sport Fishing Advisory Board https://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/consultation/smon/sfab-ccps/index-eng.html