Anglers Handbook en

ANGLERS’
HANDBOOK
and 2021 Summary of Regulations
Table of Contents
Minister’s Message 2
Special Management Areas 3
Regulation Changes for 2021 4
Proposed Changes for 2022 4
Catch and Release 5
Seasons, Bag Limits, and Size Limits 7
General Regulations 13
Licences 16
Nova Scotia Recreational Fishing Areas Map 20
Recreational Fishing Area 1 22
Winter Fishing Opportunities in Nova Scotia 55
The Freshwater Fisheries Research Cooperative 58
Inland Fisheries Division Activities 60
Tagged Fish 67
Definitions 68
Please Take Note ANGLERS’

HANDBOOK
This is a summary prepared for the and 2021 Summary of Regulations
information and convenience of the anglers

of Nova Scotia and has no legal force or
effect. Consult the Wildlife Act, the Fisheries
and Coastal Resources Act, and the
Federal Fisheries Act and regulations when
interpreting and applying the law. These
regulations can change at any time. On the Cover: The Dort family
releasing an Atlantic salmon.
Photo by: Mark Dort
• 2 2 1
Message from Honourable Keith Colwell,
Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture
2020 was a challenging year for anglers in Nova
Scotia. COVID-19 interfered with many things,
including the opening of the 2020 fishing season.
Nova Scotians have been making important sacrifices
and following the advice of public health officials. I
thank everyone for their patience last spring as we
worked together to keep everyone safe.
Despite a delay the in season opening and the
cancellation of some school programs and derbies,
2020 was a good year for sportfishing in Nova Scotia.
Over 75,000 General and Salmon Fishing Licences
were sold. This level of participation is the highest
in 35 years. We hope to continue this trend as more
Nova Scotians discover the joys of sportfishing.
In response to the challenge of in-person licence
sales due to COVID-19, the Department implemented an on-line licensing system so
anglers could purchase a licence at home, or on their mobile device. This system will
be improved for 2021 and anglers will have the option to purchase a paper licence from
a vendor or on-line.
Sportfishing generates more than $66 million annually in Nova Scotia. A new Survey
of Recreational Fishing in Canada will be conducted at the end of the 2021 season. The
survey provides us with important information, and I encourage you to take part if you
are selected to participate.
We continue to work with fishing guides, hotels, and tourism associations to create
fishing packages and a new website that will showcase the fantastic fishing and
outdoor activities we have to offer, once travel is possible.
Anglers tell us they are concerned about aquatic invasive species. In 2020 my staff
successfully eradicated illegally stocked smallmouth bass from a lake in the St. Mary’s
River watershed—a project that sent a clear message that we will not tolerate these
illegal introductions. Illegally introducing fish into the wild is a serious offence which
can permanently devastate trout and salmon populations. Anyone convicted of this
offence is subject to a fine of up to $100,000.
By contributing to the Sportfishing Habitat Fund, anglers have helped to restore 1.2
million square metres of fish habitat and contributed to many worthy projects. We are
excited to work with the Nova Scotia Salmon Association and other partners on a long-
term restoration plan for trout and salmon on eight acidified rivers in Nova Scotia.
I would like to thank the other volunteer organizations that have helped deliver
promotional programs, stocked fish, collected broodstock, and helped with our trout
management projects. Your contributions make a difference.
Whether you are an experienced angler or a beginner, I urge you to put safety first.
Please use personal floatation devices when you are on the water and check the
conditions before heading out. Please enjoy the season.
2 • 2 2
COVID-19
Nova Scotians need to follow current social distancing guidelines when
fishing to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. This means limiting your
contact with other people, staying 2 metres (6 feet) away from them,
adhering to group gathering limits, and practising good hygiene.
Anglers need to determine if they can go fishing within those guidelines.

This information is provided as general guidance and is considered accurate
as of March 2021. Changes to restrictions continue to evolve. Stay informed
by visiting novascotia.ca/coronavirus for the most up-to-date public health
information before you go fishing. This could also affect programs and
services offered by the department. Check the Department of Fisheries &
Aquaculture website https://novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing for updates.
Special Management Areas

Special Management Areas have been fisheries seem to benefit most from
used to reduce harvest and improve changes in regulations and the need
angling opportunities for both trout and for a consistent approach in regulation
smallmouth bass. Anglers have reported design has been requested by anglers.
that some speckled trout fisheries have In response, the Inland Fisheries Division
changed and overfishing is one of the has implemented some changes to sea
factors believed to be responsible for run trout fisheries that are currently under
declines in fisheries in some areas. Other special management.
important factors include habitat loss
and competition with aquatic invasive Anglers have identified potential locations
species such as smallmouth bass and for Special Management Areas through
chain pickerel. the Recreational Fishery Advisory Council
process. Anglers who are interested in
Studies in Nova Scotia and in other regulation changes or other issues related
provinces and states indicate that special to management of fisheries are
management regulations have been encouraged to participate in the
successful in improving recreational Recreation Fishing Advisory Councils
fisheries by increasing the number of (see page 20 for more info).
larger fish caught by anglers. Since the
establishment of the Special Management For additional information, please
Area initiative, provincial catches, review the Trout Management Plan and
catch and releases, and licence sales additional reports and publications
have increased. Regulations in Special available on our website
Management Areas may affect bag www.novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing
limit, season length, length limit of fish or by contacting the Inland Fisheries
retained, and gear type. Sea run trout Division, (902) 485-5056
• 2 2 3
Regulation Changes for 2021
The regulation changes for 2021 are primarily focused on standardizing and presenting
a consistent approach to fisheries management. Included in this year’s changes are:
Location, County Changes or additions
West River, Antigonish Co. Fly fishing only - The Beaver River (West
River System), downstream from the
outlet of MacEacherns Lake to the Bridge
at Addington Forks. Not including the
Cameron Lakes.
Mill Lake and Cox Flowage, Halifax Co. Open Season for Landlocked Salmon.
(Apr 1-Sep 30)
Lake (Grey) Trout - All locations Reduced bag limit for Lake (Grey) Trout to
Zero (0) fish per day, province wide. Catch
and Release, only.
Dobson Lake, Guysborough Co. Closed to all angling for all species.
Proposed Changes for 2022

The following regulation changes are being considered for 2022. Several were
submitted by anglers and sportfishing organizations through the Recreational Fishing
Advisory Councils (RFACs). See page 20 for more info on RFACs.
Location, County Changes or additions
Musquodoboit River, Halifax Co. Change of the upstream boundary of the

Special Trout Management Area from the
Highway 224 bridge to the confluence
(joining) of the North and South Branches
of the Musquodoboit River in Dean.
Wallace River, Cumberland Co. Change of Special Trout Management

Area boundaries and permitted gear type.
Smallmouth Bass Management Review smallmouth bass regulations

in western Nova Scotia.
4 • 2 2
Catch & Release
Photo: Mark Dort
Conservation minded anglers are becoming more aware of the increased pressures
and stress on Nova Scotia’s fisheries resources. Studies have shown that adopting
proper catch and release techniques, and careful handling helps to ensure fish
health and survival.
1) Using artificial flies and lures increases 5) Do not lift the fish out of the water by
the chances of survival. Live bait is often the tail. This can damage the spine of
swallowed deeply which increases the the fish.
risk of injury to the fish. Cut the line if a
hook is swallowed deeply, the fish will 6) Avoid squeezing the fish between the
work the hook out with time. pectoral (chest) fins, this is where the
heart is situated.
2) Using circle hooks or barbless hooks
can reduce harm to released fish. 7) Do not touch the gills and avoid
placing fingers under the gill plate.
3) Do not play a fish until exhaustion. Use
equipment heavy enough to play a 8) Take the time to revive the fish.
fish rapidly. Support the fish by placing a hand under
the belly and keep the fish underwater.
4) Keep air exposure to a minimum. If in moving water, face the fish into the
Avoid beaching a fish as this will remove current while continuing to support it.
the protective coating and can lead to Keep a relaxed grip on the tail and when it
infection later. is ready, the fish will swim away.
• 2 2 5
Nova Scotia’s
Conservation
Off icer Service
Our Vision
The responsible use of fish, wildlife, natural environments
and other resources for today and the future
Our Mission
To conserve, protect and promote our fish, wildlife,
natural environments and other resources through safety,
education and law enforcement
Call 1-800-565-2224 to report illegal activity

novascotia.ca/nse/conservation-enforcement
Seasons, Bag Limits, and Size Limits
For all species, the possession limit is the same as the bag limit, regardless of the
number of days of fishing. The daily bag limits apply in the aggregate. This means
that the number of fish that may be retained in any one day applies regardless of
the number of areas fished. Caught and released fish are not considered as part of
the bag limit, except for Atlantic Salmon. All season dates are inclusive.
SPECKLED (BROOK) TROUT, BROWN LANDLOCKED SALMON

TROUT, AND RAINBOW TROUT CLOSED ALL YEAR.
Season: Apr 1 to Sep 30 Except for the following waters and dates:
Sep 1 to Sep 30, No speckled trout may Apr 15 to Sep 30, Gabarus Lake, Cape
be retained. Breton County.
Bag limit: 5 fish, of any one species or OPEN ALL YEAR, Goose Harbour Lake,
any combination of Brook Trout, Brown Guysborough County.
Trout and Rainbow Trout species. Apr 1 to Sep 30, Lake Charles, Lake
Williams, Lake Thomas, Fletchers Lake,
EXCEPTIONS: Shubenacadie Grand Lake, Little Grand
Specific bag limits, size limits, Lake, Scraggy Lake, Lake Charlotte, Mill
gear restrictions, and seasons are Lake and Cox Flowage, Halifax County.
in effect on several waters that are Bag limit: 2 fish. Minimum size limit, not
listed in each Recreational Fishing less than 35 cm (13.8 in.), measured from
Area. From Sep 1 to Sep 30, no the end of the nose to the fork of the tail
speckled trout may be retained, and (see diagram page 67). All salmon over
the use of natural bait is prohibited 63 cm (24.8 in.) must be released. It is no
for all trout species in all waters, longer required to tag landlocked salmon
including Special Management between 48cm and 63cm.
Areas, exceptions are listed under
Recreational Fishing Areas. WHITE PERCH, YELLOW PERCH,
BROWN BULLHEAD, AND
WHITE SUCKER.
LAKE (GREY) TROUT
Open season coincides with an open
Season: Apr 1 to Sep 30
season for a sportfish: salmon, trout,
CATCH AND RELEASE, only.
or smallmouth bass. Extended seasons
specific to perch are listed in each
Note: Lake (grey) trout are found in
Recreational Fishing Area.
Sherbrooke Lake, Lunenburg County and
Bag limit: 25 fish.
Dollar Lake, Halifax County. Trout found
in other lakes are normally speckled
CHAIN PICKEREL
(brook) trout.
The season for chain pickerel varies in
each RFA. Please refer to the season
SMALLMOUTH (BLACK) BASS
listed specific to each RFA. In areas open
The season and bag limit for smallmouth
for chain pickerel, Bag limit: 100 fish
bass varies in each RFA. Please refer to
the season and bag limits listed specific
to each RFA.
• 2 2 7
ENFORCEMENT AND MANAGEMENT
The management of marine and sea going (anadromous) Atlantic salmon, striped
bass, eel, shad, mackerel, sturgeon, gaspereau, Atlantic whitefish and smelt is the
responsibility of the Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The Nova Scotia Department of
Fisheries and Aquaculture manages all other freshwater fish species. Enforcement
of sportfishing and salmon fishing regulations falls under the jurisdiction of the
Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Nova Scotia Environment. (see page 21).
LAKE WHITEFISH
The open season coincides with an open STRIPED BASS
season for a sportfish: salmon, trout, or GULF REGION
smallmouth bass. Bag limit: 8 fish. The tidal and non-tidal waters of the
Northumberland Strait from the New
PRIVATE PONDS AND Brunswick border to Cape North.
U-FISH OPERATIONS
There are no bag limits, season At the time this handbook was printed,
restrictions, gear or size regulations information on management measures
for fish caught in a legally constructed and seasons for Southern Gulf Striped
private pond or a licenced commercial bass was not available. Please consult
U-fish operation; however, a receipt from the Fisheries and Oceans Canada Gulf
the pond operator is required during Region’s Internet page for details about
transportation and storage of the fish. Striped bass regulations at
www.glf.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Gulf/FAM/
ATLANTIC SALMON Recreational-Fisheries/Striped-Bass
The Summary of Salmon Fishing Recreational-Fisheries or search by
Regulations is available upon request keywords: ‘’DFO Gulf Region recreational
or with the purchase of an Atlantic fisheries”.
salmon licence.
WARM WATER PROTOCOL

Please visit the following link
www.glf.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Gulf/FAM/
Recreational-Fisheries/Salmon to see
if there are any closures in effect on
the Margaree River. The purpose of the
protocol is an in-season conservation
measures for Atlantic salmon during
environmentally stressful conditions in
the Margaree River.
For changes to angling seasons, please

contact the Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(DFO) at 902-224-2017.
8 • 2 2
STRIPED BASS SHAD
MARITIMES REGION No closed season for angling in tidal
The inland and coastal waters of Nova Scotia, waters. For inland (non-tidal) waters,
from Cape North Maritimes Region along the open season coincides with an open
the Atlantic coast and the waters of the Bay season for a sportfish: salmon, trout, or
of Fundy, to the New Brunswick border. Bag smallmouth bass. Bag limit: 5 fish.
limit: 1 fish, with a minimum size limit,
not less than 68 cm (26.8 inches) overall GASPEREAU
length, not more than 150 cm (59.1 inches) No closed season for angling in tidal
overall length, measured from the tip of waters. For inland (non- tidal) waters,
nose to the tip of tail. Tidal waters open all the open season coincides with an open
year, except closed Apr 1 to Jun 30 on the season for a sportfish: salmon, trout, or
Annapolis River from Hebbs Landing near smallmouth bass. Bag limit applies to
the confluence of Ray Brook (grid reference netting and angling. For dip netting, no
0313214 4964708, map 21A/14) upstream license is required, but yearly and weekly
to the highway bridge at Lawrencetown. The times apply. Bag limit: 20 fish.
open season for striped bass in inland waters
corresponds to the open season for sportfish SMELT
(salmon, trout, and smallmouth bass) in Except in waters closed to angling for all
those waters. fish species, tidal waters are open Aug 1
to May 31 (closed Jun 1 to Jul 31).
Shubenacadie River from a point 200 m Kennetcook River, Gaspereau River,
upstream from the Highway 102 bridge in Meander River, Herbert River, St. Croix
Enfield, N.S., to a point 25 m downstream River and Avon River, Hants County, dip
from the Highway 2 bridge in Enfield. Closed netting permitted Apr 1 to Jun 15 except
to all angling for all species April 1 to May 9. closed Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Other areas, dip-netting permitted Apr
From May 10 to Jun 10, the daily fishing 1 to Jun 15 except closed Fridays,
quota for striped bass in the waters of Saturdays, and Sundays. Fishing for smelt
Grand Lake and the Shubenacadie River by dip net and spear is prohibited from
downstream to its confluence with the Jan 1 to Dec 31 (all year), in all inland
Stewiacke River, and the Stewiacke River and tidal waters flowing into Jeddore
downstream from the highway bridge (Pollock Harbour and Musquodoboit Harbour,
Bridge) in Stewiacke East to its confluence Halifax County, Lingan Bay, Cape Breton
with the Shubenacadie River, will be zero (0) County, Bain's Brook, at New Campbelton,
fish per day (hook and release only). Victoria County, and Morrison's Brook at
New Harris Forks, Victoria County. Bag
From May 10 to Jun 10, only artificial fly, limit: 60 maximum possession, not more
and unbaited lure with a single hook may than 30 of which may be harvested by
be used when angling in the waters of the dip net.
Shubenacadie River downstream from Grand Lake, Halifax County, open Jan 1
the CN Railway Bridge at East Milford to to Sep 30, bag limit reduced to 24 smelt
its confluence with the Stewiacke River, by angling.
and Stewiacke River downstream from
the highway bridge (Pollock Bridge) in
Stewiacke East to its confluence with the
Shubenacadie River.
• 2 2 9
EEL
No closed season in tidal waters. For NOTE: Special provisions and winter
inland (non-tidal) waters, the open seasons may be in place for trout,
season coincides with an open season smallmouth bass, white perch, yellow
for a sportfish: salmon, trout, or perch and chain pickerel in selected
smallmouth bass. The waters along the waters. Consult each Recreational
Northumberland Strait and Gulf of St. Fishing Area for expanded angling
Lawrence from the New Brunswick border opportunities for some of these
to Cape North, minimum size limit, not species. The Datum type used for grid
less than 53 cm (21 in) measured from references to identify boundaries for
the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail. specific fishing areas is NAD 27.
The inland and coastal waters of Nova
Scotia, from Cape North along the Atlantic Inland waters: The boundary between
coast and the waters of the Bay of Fundy, inland and tidal waters is defined under
to the New Brunswick border, minimum Schedule II of the Maritime Provinces
size limit, not less that 35 cm (13.8 in) Fishery Regulations. A list of the inland
measured from the tip of the nose to the water boundaries for the major rivers
tip of the tail. Bag limit: 10 fish. in Nova Scotia can be found at www.
novascotia.ca/fish/. For the locations
of other inland water boundaries not on
the list, please consult the local office
of the Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Photo: Pat Taylor
10 • 2 2
Licence of a Lifetime
The Super Licence includes Fishing and
Small Game & Deer Hunting
ou could spend the rest of our life fishing and
hunting all over Nova Scotia—Free!
Announcing the 2021 Licence of a Lifetime Lottery from the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and
Hunters. This year, we will be awarding two (2) lifetime licences to two (2) lucky applicants.
hat s right, you could hunt and fish from Sydney to armouth, from mherst to anso all over
the province, every year, for the rest of your life. And best of all, you’ll never have to buy another
Fishing*, Small Game** or Deer‡ hunting licence.
Again this year you can buy a ticket as a gift for a friend or relative by entering their name in the
“Gift for” section of the ticket at the time of purchase. A great stocking stuffer for Christmas.
PRICES FOR 2021 TICKETS: $2 each or 3 for $5

It’s easy to enter: just copy and complete the attached form and mail it along with your entry fee
To NSFAH, PO Box 654, Halifax NS, B3J 2T3. We will fill out your tic ets and send you the stubs.
Enter as often as you like, and good luck!
Please send me #_________ Tickets.
Name:
Address:
ity own ostal ode
elephone Wildlife esources ard
A Gift for: Phone number:
ou may pay by he ue enclosed payable to Nova Scotia ederation of nglers and unters
redit ard No e piry cvv

Security ode
Rules ec , 0 entries postmar ed after

pen to Nova Scotia residents only. Dec 23, 2021 will be included in next
ntry forms are to be completely filled out in in year’s draw.
or typed. ll entry fees are non-refundable do not send cash
he licencee is sub ect to the laws respecting hunting a e che ue or money order payable to Nova Scotia
in the same manner as with any hunting licence. ederation of nglers and unters, . . o ,
his licence is not transferrable, and may be alifa , N.S. .
cancelled, suspended, or forfeited in accordance with raw date is ec 0, 0 .
the law. * Not including salmon—sponsored by the Nova Scotia
Incomplete, illegible, or improperly filled out entries epartment of isheries and uaculture
will not be accepted, and entrants will not be notified ** Not including migratory birds
or have fees refunded. ‡ The Deer and Small Game Licences are sponsored by
ll entries must be postmar ed no later than the Nova Scotia Department of Lands & Forestry.
FP AD
Photo: Sackville Rivers Association
The ASCF is a non-profit organization established through a grant from the

Government of Canada. Income generated by this trust fund supports
projects and activities contributing to conservation of wild Atlantic salmon
and salmon habitat.
The Foundation helps achieve healthy and sustainable wild Atlantic salmon
stocks in Atlantic Canada and Québec through active working partnerships
among volunteer conservation groups, Indigenous organizations, governments,
and others.
Nova Scotia projects funded by the ASCF in 2020 were led by:
Cheticamp River Salmon Association $13,548 Nova Scotia Salmon Association $20,460
Dalhousie University $100,155 Sackville Rivers Association $18,000
Inverness South Anglers Association $13,750 St. Mary’s River Association $23,000
Margaree Salmon Association $18,000
For more information, including details of these projects, please visit our website:
www.salmonconservation.ca
General Regulations
GUIDES • use a gaff of any kind to land a
Non-residents do not need a guide to sportfish caught by angling.
fish in Nova Scotia. However, guided • angle for Atlantic salmon except with
fishing trips can significantly increase an artificial fly.
your angling experience. Consider hiring
a professional guide for your next trip. • angle in non-tidal waters with more
than 1 fishing line or with a fishing line
FISHING METHODS AND EQUIPMENT having more than 3 separate hooks.
No one is allowed to: • angle in tidal waters for sportfish
• possess fish that were caught by any with more than 1 fishing line or with a
person while fishing for recreational fishing line to which more than 3 hooks
purposes or sport purposes and that are attached.
have been skinned, cut, packed or
otherwise dealt with in such a manner • angle in tidal waters for non-sportfish
that (a) the species cannot be readily with more than 5 fishing lines or with a
determined; (b) the number of fish fishing line to which more than 6 hooks
cannot be readily determined; (c) where are attached.
weight is used to determine catch • keep any sportfish if it is hooked in
limits, the weight of the fish cannot be any part of the body other than the
readily determined; and (d) where size mouth. The fish shall immediately be
limits are applicable, the size of the returned alive to the water from which
fish cannot be readily determined. it was taken.
• possess live fish of any species except • angle in non-tidal waters unless an
under circumstances outlined in the open season for sportfish is in effect in
Live Fish Possession Regulations those waters.
http://www.novascotia.ca/JUST/
• angle for sportfish during that part of
Regulations/regs/fcrlivefish.htm.
the day beginning 2 hours after sunset
• use an artificial light or flame of any and ending 2 hours before sunrise.
kind (including light emitting lures), This does not apply when angling for
for fishing in non-tidal waters, or while smallmouth bass or brown trout during
fishing for salmon in tidal waters. any of the night fishing seasons listed
• use a set-line or trawl for fishing in for each Recreational Fishing Area.
non-tidal waters. • fish caught out of season must be
• fish in non-tidal waters by jigging, released immediately and with the
snaring, spearing, or using a bow and least amount of harm.
arrow, or assist in landing any fish • fish with an artificial fly that has more
caught by such means. than 2 hooks.
• use dynamite or any other explosive • fish for, kill, or retain any spent or slink
for fishing or destroying fish, or use salmon or salmon fry, parr, or smolt
anything that might cause unnecessary (see drawings page 50).
destruction of fish.
• fish within 23 m (26 yds) downstream
of any fish ladder or leap.
• 2 2 13
ACCESS TO WATER not be construed to give the right to build
Certain rights and responsibilities of any fires upon such lands.
anglers and protections for landowners are
provided in the Angling Act. Any resident SPECIAL NOTES
of the Province has the right to go on foot No one is allowed to fish within the
along the banks of any river, stream or posted boundaries of a licensed
lake, upon and across any uncultivated aquaculture site or a privately owned
lands and Crown lands for the purpose of fish pond without permission of the
lawfully fishing with rod and line in such owner. Angling is not permitted in many
rivers, streams or lakes. Uncultivated municipal watersheds or water supply
land means land that is in its natural wild areas. Please check with your local
state, and includes also land that has been municipal authority before venturing into
wholly or partially cleared, but is otherwise these areas.
in its natural state. The rights of anglers
under the Act therefore does not extend MISCELLANEOUS
to cultivated land such as farmland. • Any fish taken by recreational fishing is
The rights of anglers under the Act also for domestic use only and may not be
does not in any way limit or restrict the sold or bartered.
right of any owner or occupant of land to • No person who is fishing for personal
compensation for actual damages caused use or sport purposes may waste
by any person going upon or across such any fish that is suitable for human
lands for the purpose of angling and shall consumption.
Some things will

always be essential.
July 3 to 11, 2021 ∙ catchfishing.com ∙
14 • 2 2
Wild, native fish thriving
in Nova Scotia waters.
The Nova Scotia Salmon Association represents the
interests of native trout and Atlantic Salmon in Nova Scotia.
We rally the actions of passionate anglers and

conservationists to ensure the survival and sustainability of
our native fish, rivers and recreation.
We need your voice. Join us for free today.

NSsalmon.ca
@novascotiasalmonassociation
Photo: Tim Myers

Licences
You are required to purchase a general fishing licence or a salmon fishing licence to
angle in the waters of Nova Scotia, with the following exceptions:
If you are required to possess a licence, • Residents and non-residents with
you must carry it with you while fishing. permanent disabilities may qualify for
a General Fishing Licence at no cost
• No licence is required to angle in tidal which is available from Department of
waters; however, seasons and bag Lands and Forestry offices.
limits are still in effect. (See details for • No licence is required for recreational
each Recreational Fishing Area, and dip-netting of smelt or gaspereau.
Seasons, Bag Limits, and Size Limits Seasons and bag limits are still in effect.
(pages 7-10), for more information.)
The boundaries of tidal waters are • Lost licences can be replaced at your
defined by the Fisheries and Oceans local Nova Scotia Department of
Canada and are listed on the Nova Lands and Forestry office. 2021 fishing
Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture licences are valid from the date of issue
website. Check each Recreational to March 31, 2022.
Fishing Area for tidal water closures. • A provincial fishing licence is not valid
• No licence is required to fish in in a national park. A special licence may
legally constructed private ponds be required. Check with a federal park
or U-fish operations (commercially warden or contact one of the national
licenced aquaculture operations), parks listed on page 21.
nor do seasons or bag limits apply. • It is an offence not to have your
Permission to fish must be obtained signature and address on a licence.
from the owner.
• Non-residents may purchase a full
• Residents 65 years of age and older season licence or any number of one-
may purchase a General Fishing day general fishing licences.
Licence at a reduced rate.
• Residents and non-residents under the YOUTH LICENCES
age of 16 years do not require a licence. Residents and non-residents age 16
and 17 years are eligible for a general
or salmon fishing licence at no cost.
Licence Stubs
You are required by law to return your The information on the licence stubs
completed licence stub at the end of is used to indicate overall trends in
the fishing season. The Nova Scotia fish catches around the province. It is
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture important that you send in your licence
relies upon anglers to provide the stub even if you did not fish, so that we
information needed to manage fish can get an accurate picture of the status
populations. of sportfish catches.
16 • 2 2
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES
A SIGNIFICANT THREAT TO NATIVE SPECIES SUCH AS SPECKLED TROUT
HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES
LIVE POSSESSION AND ILLEGAL

INTRODUCTIONS
The intentional or accidental introduction of fish,
particularly smallmouth bass and chain pickerel, or
other aquatic organisms from one lake or stream to
another can negatively affect local fish populations
through competition, disease, or genetic changes.
Under the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act, no

one is allowed to possess live fish in Nova Scotia
unless authorized under the Live Fish Possession
Regulations or release live fish into the waters of the
province except under licence by the Fisheries and
Oceans Canada.
LIVE BAIT
Unwanted fish species can be accidentally spread
by releasing unused live bait therefore threatening
local fish populations. Do not discard bait unless it
was caught from the water body in which you are
fishing. It is illegal to use certain species as bait or to
Photo: Matt Szeto
possess them for bait (whether alive or dead). These
include chain pickerel smallmouth bass, goldfish,
yellow perch, brown bullhead, white perch or any fish
not taken from provincial waters.
REPORT INVASIVES
Report illegal introductions or sightings of introduced species by calling 902-485-5056 or email
inland@novascotia.ca or call 1-888-435-4040 or email XMARinvasive@mar.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
If possible please provide a date, location and picture.
Photo: Government of Nova Scotia
18 • 2 2
Nova Scotia Recreational Fishing Areas
To allow management on a regional basis, the province is divided into six Recreational
Fishing Areas (RFA’s) currently determined by County boundaries. Sportfishing
regulations in Kejimkujik and Cape Breton Highlands national parks is the responsibility
of Parks Canada.
Recreational Fisheries Advisory Council (RFAC)

The RFAC is a way for you to participate in the fisheries management process. Inland
Fisheries staff host meetings for each of the Recreational Fishing Areas, usually in
the fall, to update the public on our yearly activities and to receive feedback from you,
the angling community. This is a unique opportunity to discuss your questions,
comments, and concerns about the recreational fishery in Nova
Scotia with those charged with managing it for all of us. For more
information please contact inland@novascotia.ca or check out
our website.
Photo: Mark Dort
Report illegal fishing activities to Nova Scotia Environment at 1-800-565-2224,

Fisheries and Oceans Canada at 1-800-565-1633, or Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers
at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
20 • 2 2
Important Addresses and Phone Numbers
Department of Fisheries and Department of Environment
Aquaculture Inland Fisheries Division (Head Office)
(Provincial) Barrington Tower, 1894 Barrington Street
PO Box 700, Pictou, NS B0K 1H0 Suite 1800, PO Box 442
Phone: (902) 485-5056, Halifax, NS B3J 2P8
Fax: (902) 485-4014 Phone: (902) 424-3600
www.novascotia.ca/fish/ Fax: (Main) (902) 424-0501
E-mail: inland@novascotia.ca
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Fisheries and Oceans Canada www.inter.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Gulf/FAM/
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fisheries-peches/ Recreational-Fisheries
recreational-recreative/maritimes/index-
eng.html Gulf Region
Conservation and Protection
Maritimes Region Conservation and Detatchments
Protection Detatchments Antigonish Phone: (902) 863-1142
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/contact/regions/ Cheticamp Phone: (902) 224-2017
maritimes-eng.html Pictou Phone: (902) 485-5413
Kejimkujik National Park and Cape Breton Highlands

National Historic Site National Park
PO Box 236, Maitland Bridge, PO Box 158,
NS B0T 1B0 Cheticamp, NS B0E 1H0
(902) 682-2770 (902) 224-2306
Photo: Mark Dort
• 2 2 21
Cape Breton, Inverness,
1 Richmond and Victoria Counties
RECREATION AL FISHING AREA 1
SEASONS Lorraine Brook, downstream from the

Speckled (Brook) Trout, Brown Trout, outlet of MacVickers Lake.
and Rainbow Trout Mira River, downstream from the highway
Tidal Waters - Apr 15 to Sep 30. bridge at Victoria Bridge.
Inland Waters and the Bras d’Or Lake Salmon River, downstream from the
- Apr 1 to Sep 30 except the waters stillwater at Silver Mine.
referred to in the listings below.
From Sep 1 to Sep 30, no speckled INVERNESS COUNTY
trout may be retained, and natural The following waters are open Apr 15
bait is prohibited in all waters for all to Sep 30, closed to all angling for all
trout species, including Special Trout species Apr 1 to Apr 14.
Management Areas except the Cape Margaree River, downstream from the
Breton Highlands Management Area and highway bridges at East Margaree.
those waters with extended seasons for Southwest Margaree River, downstream
trout. The use of natural bait is permitted from the Scotsville bridge to the bridge at
year round in Bras d’Or Lakes. Margaree Forks.
Northeast Margaree River, (see Special
LANDLOCKED SALMON Trout Management Area page 24).
Apr 15 to Sep 30. Gabarus Lake, Cape Skye River, downstream from the lower
Breton County. East Skye Glen Bridge to the Highway
105 Bridge.
NOTE: The following regulations do not
RICHMOND COUNTY
apply to the lakes and tributaries of those
The following waters are open Apr 15
rivers unless specified. All season dates
to Sep 30, closed to all angling for all
are inclusive.
species Apr 1 to Apr 14.
Framboise River, including Middle River
CAPE BRETON COUNTY Framboise, Northeast Framboise River,
The following waters are open Apr 15 and Bagnells River.
to Sep 30, closed to all angling for all Grand River, downstream from the highway
species Apr 1 to Apr 14. bridge at the head of Loch Lomond.
Belfry Lake. L’Archeveque Lake.
Catalone River, downstream from the outlet Marie Joseph Brook, downstream from
of Belle Lake, including Catalone Lake. the outlet of Upper Marie Joseph Lake.
Gabarus Lake. River Inhabitants, downstream from the
Gaspereau River, downstream from the Highway 105 bridge at Kingsville.
outlet of Gaspereau Lake. River Tillard, downstream from the bridge
Gerratt Brook, downstream from the at Sporting Mountain.
outlet of Kelly Lake. Rory’s Pond.
St. Esprit Lake.
22 • 2 2
VICTORIA COUNTY WATERS CLOSED TO ALL ANGLING
Ingonish River, downstream to the Cabot FOR ALL SPECIES
Trail Highway bridge, including tributaries, (1) waters of the Baddeck River upstream
open Apr 15 to Sep 30, closed to all from the Hwy 105 bridge; (2) Northeast
angling for all species Apr 1 to Apr 14. (inside) of the East Bay Sandbar; and (3)
waters upstream from Black River bridge
Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Dundee; (4) waters upstream from
A National Parks general fishing permit Crowdis Bridge in river Deny’s Basin; and
or National Parks salmon licence as well (5) waters upstream from Mackenzie
as a park entry permit is required to angle Brook Bridge near South Side Basin of
in the park. For more information contact River Deny’s which remain closed to all
the Park Office. (see page 21). angling for all species, Jan 1 to Mar 31.
EXTENDED SEASONS FOR RAINBOW Waters inside the Boom Channel including
TROUT AND SPECKLED TROUT River Denys and all of River Denys Basin
OPEN ALL YEAR. The bag limit is are closed to trout angling, Oct 1 to Mar
reduced to two (2) trout, either species 31, CLOSED TO ALL ANGLING FOR ALL
or combined, Oct 1 to Mar 31. SPECIES Apr 1 to Apr 30.
Petite Lac, Inverness County.
Levers Lake, # 20 Dam Pond, Cape SMALLMOUTH BASS
Breton County. CLOSED ALL YEAR, except the following:
Eco-Trail Pond, Isle Madame, Apr 1 to Sep 30. Bag limit twenty-five
Richmond County. (25) bass. Blacketts Lake, Cape Breton
Dalem (Round) Lake, Victoria County. County. Lake Ainslie, Inverness County.
Grant's Pond, Victoria County.
CHAIN PICKEREL
EXTENDED SEASONS FOR RAINBOW CLOSED ALL YEAR, except the following:
TROUT AND BROWN TROUT Apr 1 to Sep 30. Bag limit 100 fish.
OPEN ALL YEAR, ANY GEAR. Blacketts Lake, Cape Breton County.
The bag limit is reduced to two (2) trout,
Oct 1 to Mar 31. Minimum size limit ANGLING SEASONS FOR OTHER
for rainbow trout is 35cm (13.8 in), SPECIES
ALL YEAR. The tidal waters of the Bras (See page 7)
d’Or Lakes, St. Patrick’s Channel, St.
Andrews Channel, and Sydney River
(between the dam and a line drawn Photo: Pat Taylor
between Point Edward and Liscomb
Point), NOT INCLUDING WATERS CLOSED
TO ALL ANGLING FOR ALL SPECIES.
NIGHT FISHING FOR BROWN TROUT

Salmon River, Cape Breton County,
downstream from the highway bridge
near Rock Elm to its confluence with the
Mira River, Apr 15 to Aug 31.
• 2 2 23
SPECIAL TROUT MANAGEMENT AREAS
MARGAREE RIVER, INVERNESS COUNTY
Upstream from the highway bridges at East Margaree to the bridges at Big
Intervale on the Northeast Margaree and to the bridge at Margaree Forks on the
Southwest Margaree and the Gallant River upstream from its confluence with the
Margaree River to the highway bridge on the East Margaree Road.
Apr 1 to Apr 14, closed to all angling for all species.
Jun 1 to the end of all fishing seasons: artificial fly only. During the artificial
fly season, angling is only permitted between the hours of 6 am and 10 pm for
all species.
Apr 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35
cm (13.8 in) total length.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released, bag limit three (3) trout
(brown or rainbow), only one (1) greater than 35 cm (13.8 in).
Northeast Margaree River, upstream from the bridges at Big Intervale. CLOSED
ALL YEAR FOR ALL SPECIES.
LAKE O’LAW BROOK, INVERNESS COUNTY

Upstream from its confluence with the Northeast Margaree River to the outlet of
First Lake O’Law.
Apr 1 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm
(13.8 in) total length.
(brown or rainbow), only one (1) may greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length .
RIVER DENYS, INVERNESS COUNTY

Including tributaries, Denys Basin and Indian Pond, downstream to a line drawn
true north from Martin Point on the western end of Boom Island to grid reference
653148 5084898 on the opposite shore across the Boom Channel.
May 1 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm
(brown or rainbow), only one (1) may greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
TROUT BROOK, INVERNESS COUNTY

From a point 96 m upstream from the Highway 395 Bridge to a point 137 m downstream
from the same bridge lying between two markers set 45m apart in Lake Ainslie.
Apr 1 to Aug 31, artificial fly only, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater
than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, artificial fly only, all speckled trout must be released, bag limit three
(3) trout (brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total
length. Upstream waters including tributaries, CLOSED ALL YEAR FOR ALL SPECIES.
contd. on page 25
24 • 2 2
GRAND RIVER, RICHMOND COUNTY
From the highway bridge at the community of Grand River, upstream to the
highway bridge at the outflow of Loch Lomond (including Black River Pond), not
including tributaries.
Apr 15 to May 31, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited.
Jun 1 to Sep 30, artificial fly only.
Apr 15 to Aug 31, Bag limit one (1) trout which must be greater than 35 cm
Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released. Bag limit one (1) trout
(brown or rainbow), which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
Downstream from the highway bridge at Grand River to a line drawn between Red Head
(grid reference 684988 5052445) and Black Point (grid reference 687315 5053249),
Apr 15 to Aug 31, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited. Bag
limit one (1) trout which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released. Bag limit one (1) trout
(brown or rainbow), which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length, single
hook lure or artificial fly.
NORTH ASPY RIVER, VICTORIA COUNTY

Upstream from the Bay St. Lawrence Highway bridge to the Cape Breton Highlands
Park boundary.
Apr 15 to May 31, bag limit five (5) trout.
Jun 1 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm
(13.8 in) total length, single hook lure or artificial fly only, natural bait is prohibited.
(brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length,
single hook lure or artificial fly only.
BADDECK RIVER, VICTORIA COUNTY

Upstream from the 105 Highway bridge including the North Branch Baddeck River,
Peter’s Brook and Canes Pond.
Apr 1 to May 14, closed to all angling for all species.
May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) trout may be greater than
35 cm (13.8 in) total length, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited.
(brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length,
single hook lure or artificial fly only.
Oct 1 to Oct 31, rainbow and brown trout only, barbless artificial fly only, bag limit
three (3) trout (brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in)
total length.
contd. on page 26
• 2 2 25
MIDDLE RIVER, VICTORIA COUNTY
Upstream from the Highway 105 Bridge to the Cabot Trail Highway Bridge near
Finlayson, including tributaries except Indian Brook.
May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) trout may be greater than
35 cm (13.8 in) total length, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited.
(brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in), single hook
lure or artificial fly only.
three (3) trout (brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in)
total length.
Upstream from the Cabot Trail Highway Bridge near Findlayson, including
tributaries, CLOSED ALL YEAR FOR ALL SPECIES.
NORTH RIVER, VICTORIA COUNTY

Upstream from the tidal pool to a point at the benches marked by a fishery officer,
May 15 to Sep 30, artificial fly only, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be
greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
Jul 15 to Aug 31, upstream from the Little Falls pool, as marked by a fishery
officer, to the Benches, as marked by a fishery officer, closed to all angling for
all species.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released. Bag limit three (3) trout
(brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
Waters upstream from the benches marked by a fishery officer including
tributaries, CLOSED ALL YEAR FOR ALL SPECIES.
contd. on page 27
Photo: Skyler Jeddore with the new Striped Bass - Live Release record.
26 • 2 2
KEY
Cape Breton Highlands Special Trout Management Area
OPEN ALL YEAR
bag limit ten (10) speckled trout,
natural bait allowed all season.
Cape Breton
Highlands
National Park
Ingonish
Chéticamp
Cabot Trail HWY
Cabot Trail Rd.
St. Anns
HWY 105
Hunter’s
Mountain Baddeck
CAPE BRETON HIGHLANDS

This management area is the area enclosed by the following boundaries:
105 highway from the St. Anns exit (exit 11) to the Hunters Mountain exit (exit 7);
Cabot Trail Highway from the Hunters Mountain exit (exit 7) to the Victoria/
Inverness County line; Victoria/Inverness County line to the Cape Breton Highlands
National Park boundary; Cape Breton Highlands National Park boundary to the
Cabot Trail Highway at Ingonish; The Cabot Trail Highway at Ingonish to the 105
Highway at St. Anns (exit 11). OPEN ALL YEAR, bag limit ten (10) speckled trout,
natural bait allowed all season.
Note: The following waters are not included in the Cape Breton Highlands
Management Area.
Baddeck River, North Branch Baddeck River, Peter’s Brook and Canes Pond,
not including tributaries to those rivers. Barachois River, not including tributaries.
Indian Brook, downstream from the confluence of the east and west branches,
not including tributaries. Ingonish River, not including tributaries. North River,
downstream from a point at the benches marked by a fishery officer, not including
tributaries. Middle River, including tributaries. Grant's Pond.
• 2 2 27
Antigonish, Guysborough
2 and Pictou Counties
SEASONS Ecum Secum River, downstream from the

SPECKLED (BROOK) TROUT, BROWN outlet of Judd’s Pool near New Chester,
TROUT, AND RAINBOW TROUT open Apr 15 to Sep 30, closed to all
Tidal Waters - Apr 15 to Sep 30. angling for all species Apr 1 to Apr 14.
Inland Waters - Apr 1 to Sep 30 except Liscomb River, downstream from the
the waters referred to in the listings below. outlet of Big Stillwater Lake, open Apr
From Sep 1 to Sep 30, no speckled 15 to Sep 30, closed to all angling for all
trout may be retained, and natural species Apr 1 to Apr 14.
bait is prohibited in all waters for all Liscomb River, from a point 70 m
trout species, including Special Trout upstream from the highway bridge
Management Areas, except waters with at Liscomb Mills to a point 23 m
extended seasons for trout. downstream from the entrance to the fish
ladder, not including tributaries, Jun 1 to
NOTE: The following regulations do not Sep 30, artificial fly only.
rivers unless specified. All season dates PICTOU COUNTY
are inclusive. The following waters are open Apr 15
to Sep 30, closed to all angling for all
species Apr 1 to Apr 14.
ANTIGONISH COUNTY Barney’s River, downstream from the
The following waters are open Apr 15 to bridge at Avondale Crossing Road.
Sep 30, closed to all angling for all French River, downstream from the
species Apr 1 to Apr 14. confluence of the East and West branches.
Brierly Brook, downstream from the River John, downstream from the
bridge on the Schoolhouse Road. confluence of the East and West branches
Pomquet River, downstream from the 104 including the Salmon Hole.
Highway bridge. Sutherlands River, downstream from
Tracadie River, from the highway 4 bridge Park Falls.
at Monastery to a point located 400m
downstream, marked by a Fishery Officer. EXTENDED SEASONS FOR RAINBOW
TROUT AND/ OR SPECKLED TROUT
GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY OPEN ALL YEAR. The bag limit is
Country Harbour River, downstream from reduced to two (2) trout, either species or
the highway bridge on the Borneo Road, combined, Oct 1 to Mar 31.
including Country Harbour Lake to a point Cameron Lake and Gillis Lake,
300m downstream of the Iron Bridge, Antigonish County.
open May 15 to Sep 30, closed to all Goose Harbour Lake, McKeen Lake and
angling for all species Pringle Lake, Guysborough County.
Apr 1 to May 14. Dryden Lake and Gairloch Lake,
Pictou County.
28 • 2 2
NIGHT FISHING FOR BROWN TROUT WHITE PERCH AND YELLOW PERCH
James River, Antigonish County, from Apr 1 to Sep 30, except the following
the water supply dam at grid reference which are which are OPEN ALL YEAR:
568078, 5050765 downstream to its Cameron Lake, Gillis Lake, Antigonish
confluence with the West River, County, Goose Harbour Lake, McKeen
Apr 15 to Aug 31. Lake, Pringle Lake, Guysborough County.
River John, Pictou County, from the West Gairloch Lake, Pictou County.
Branch Bridge downstream to the Welsford
Bridge near Welsford, Apr 15 to Aug 31. WATERS CLOSED TO ALL ANGLING FOR
ALL SPECIES
SMALLMOUTH BASS The following waters are closed to
CLOSED ALL YEAR, except the following: all angling due to the recent
Apr 1 to Sep 30. Bag limit twenty-five introduction of Smallmouth Bass:
(25) bass. Piper Lake, Pictou County,
Lansdowne Lake and Middle River, Dobson Lake, Guysborough County.
including Middle River Reservoir,
Pictou County. ANGLING SEASONS FOR OTHER
SPECIES
CHAIN PICKEREL (See page 7)
CLOSED ALL YEAR, except the following:
Apr 1 to Sep 30. Bag limit 100 fish.
Black Lake and West Branch Lake,
Pictou County.
GUYSBOROUGH (MILFORD HAVEN) RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

Downstream from the bridge at West Interval to the Highway 16 bridge
near Boylston.
May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than
35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
ST. MARY’S RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

Upstream from the highway bridge at Sherbrooke to the 347 Bridge near Aspen on
the East River, St. Mary's and upstream to the highway bridge at Glengelg on the
West River, St. Mary's.
Apr 15 to Sep 30, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than
35 cm (13.8 in) total length, artificial fly only.
contd. on page 30
• 2 2 29
Upstream from the 347 bridge near Aspen on the East River, St. Mary’s to the
Guysborough County boundary and upstream from the highway bridge at Glenelg
on the West River, St Mary’s, to South Brook near Trafalgar:
Apr 1 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm
May 26 to Sep 30, artificial fly only.
Pools closed to all angling, Jun 15 to Sep 30, include: Cumminger Pool, Foot
Bridge Pool, Ford Pool, Indian Man Pool, McKeen Pool, Silvers Pool, Sutherlands
Pool, details of pool closures are available from DFO.
SALMON RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

From the outlet of Salmon River Lake downstream to its confluence with
Chedabucto Bay.
May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35
cm (13.8 in) total length, not including tributaries.
Jul 1 to Sep 30, downstream from a point 50 m below the Highway 16 Bridge at
Cooks Cove, artificial fly only.
(brown or rainbow), of which only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in)
total length.
Oct 1 to Oct 31, brown trout, catch and release only, barbless artificial fly.
ST. FRANCIS HARBOUR RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

From the outlet of Goose Harbour Lake downstream to its confluence with
Chedabucto Bay.
May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit one (1) trout which must be greater than 35 cm
(13.8 in) total length, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released, bag limit one (1) trout
(brown or rainbow) which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length. Single
hook lure or artificial fly.
Oct 1 to Oct 31, brown trout, catch and release only, bag limit one (1) rainbow trout
which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length, barbless artificial fly only.
contd. on page 31
30 • 2 2
EAST RIVER, PICTOU COUNTY
From a line drawn from Dunbar Point to Pine Point (including Big Gut) upstream
to the Springville Bridge on the East Branch, Apr 1 to May 14, closed to all angling
for all species. May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be
From Springville Bridge on the East Branch upstream to and including Hunters
Lake, and from the confluence of the West Branch upstream to the outflow of
West Branch Lake. Apr 1 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be
WEST RIVER, PICTOU COUNTY

Downstream from the Highway 104 bridge, Apr 1 to May 14, closed to all angling
for all species. May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be
greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length. Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must
be released, bag limit three (3) trout (brown or rainbow), only one (1) may be
SOUTH RIVER, ANTIGONISH COUNTY See map page 32

From the bridge that marks the outlet of Loch Katrine (South River Lake) to the
Sunrise Trail (old highway 104 bridge), Apr 1 to Apr 14, closed to all angling for all
species. Open Apr 15 to Oct 31.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released, bag limit five (5) trout
(brown or rainbow).
two (2) trout (brown or rainbow).
From the Sunrise Trail (old highway 104 bridge) to the Williams Point boundary of
the West River Management Area and to the outflow of Antigonish Harbour, Apr 1
to Apr 14, closed to all angling for all species.
Apr 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35
cm (13.8 in) total length.
two (2) trout (brown or rainbow).
From the dam immediately upstream from Fraser’s Mill Fish Hatchery
downstream to the bridge over the Old Pinevale Road, CLOSED ALL YEAR.
contd. on page 32
• 2 2 31
Harbour
Outflow
Harbour Centre
KEY
West/South River Special Trout Management Area
Open May 15 - Sep 30
Natural bait prohibited. Artificial fly and Lanark
unbaited lure only
Open May 15 - Sep 30
Artificial Fly only Williams
Point
Open Apr 15 – Aug 31
Antigonish South River
Bag: bag three (3) trout, only one (1) may
104 Sunrise Trail
be over 35cm (13.8 in)
Sep 1 – Sep 30 Saltsprings
Bag: bag three (3) brown or rainbow trout,
Brierly Brook Loch Katrine
only one (1) may be over 35cm (13.8 in),
(South River Lake)
natural bait prohibited West River
Open Apr 15 - Oct 31
HWY 104 Purlbrook
James River
Beaver Meadow Addington Forks Bridge
Beaver Mountain St. Joseph
St. Joseph Lake
MacEacherns Lake
WEST RIVER, ANTIGONISH COUNTY

The Ohio River, downstream from the bridge at the outlet of St. Joseph Lake, and
the Beaver River, downstream from the outlet of MacEacherns Lake (excluding
Cameron Lakes), to the bridge on the West River at Addington Forks, Apr 1 to May
14, closed to all angling for all species. May 15 to Sep 30, artificial fly only. Bag
limit one (1) trout which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
Downstream from the bridge at Addington Forks to a line drawn true north from
grid reference 583545 5054009 at Williams Point to the opposite shore, Apr 1 to
May 14, closed to all angling for all species. May 15 to Sep 30, single hook lure
or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited. Bag limit one (1) trout which must be
(brown or rainbow) which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
32 • 2 2
Restoring our Rivers
The Nova Scotia Salmon Association’

Adopt A Stream program
provides funding, training
and technical expertise
to support local community groups,
river associations, First Nation
communities and Indigenous
organizations to restore and
protect our waterways.
For more information about the program, current projects and how to get involved,
visit adoptastream.ca and nssalmon.ca.
3 Halifax and Lunenburg Counties
SEASONS unnamed tributary to Hebb Lake that

SPECKLED TROUT, BROWN TROUT, are downstream from a straight line
AND RAINBOW TROUT across that tributary from grid reference
Tidal waters of Halifax County (Halifax 374167 4909763 to grid reference 374183
Harbour and East) - Apr 15 to Sep 30. 4909763 as marked by a fishery officer.
Tidal waters of Halifax County (West of Angling season open only from Jul 1 to
Halifax Harbour) and Lunenburg County Sep 30, single hook lure or artificial fly,
- Apr 1 to Sep 30. natural bait is prohibited. Jan 1 to Jun 30
Inland waters - Apr 1 to Sep 30 except the and Oct 1 to Dec 31, closed to all angling
waters referred to in the listings below. for all species.
From Sep 1 to Sep 30, no speckled
trout may be retained and natural EXTENDED SEASONS FOR RAINBOW
bait is prohibited in all waters for all TROUT AND/OR SPECKLED TROUT
trout species, including Special Trout Note: these lakes are open to white
Management Areas, except for waters perch and yellow perch.
with extended seasons for trout. OPEN ALL YEAR. The bag limit is
reduced to two (2) trout, either species
LAKE (GREY) TROUT or combined, Oct 1 to Mar 31.
Apr 1 to Sep 30. All lake (grey) trout must Albro Lake, Lewis Lake and Round Lake
be released. Bag limit zero (0) lake trout. at Jerry Lawrence Park, Maynard Lake,
Penhorn Lake, First Lake, Cow Bay
LANDLOCKED SALMON Pond, Halifax County.
Apr 1 to Sep 30. Beck Lake, Hutt Lake, and Sucker Lake,
Lunenburg County.
apply to the lakes and tributaries of those SMALLMOUTH BASS
rivers unless specified. All season dates Apr 1 to Oct 31. Bag limit five (5) bass,
are inclusive. except for waters referred to in the listings
below: All waters east of the Highway
102 from Its junction with the Highway
THE FOLLOWING REGULATIONS 104, to Highway 118 to Highway 107 to
ARE IN PLACE TO PROTECT Highway 328 (Ross Road) near Upper
ENDANGERED ATLANTIC WHITEFISH Lawrencetown, CLOSED ALL YEAR, except
WHILE ANGLING OTHER SPECIES IN the following lakes: Lake Egmont, Porters
LUNENBURG COUNTY Lake, Loon Lake and Miller Lake,
The waters of Minamkeak Lake, Apr 1 to Sept 30.
Milipsigate Lake and Hebb Lake
upstream from the dam at its outlet,
including the waters joining these
lakes but not including other tributaries
to them except the waters of an
34 • 2 2
SPECIAL BASS MANAGEMENT AREAS ANGLING SEASONS FOR OTHER
SPECIES
Grand Lake (Shubenacadie), Halifax (See Page 7)
County, including those portions
occurring in Hants County. ARTIFICIAL FLY ONLY
Morris Lake, Halifax County. Fishing is permitted with artificial flies
Big Mushamush Lake, Lunenburg only in the sections of the following rivers
County. during the times listed. Other methods
Apr 1 to Dec 31, bag limit three (3) are permitted during the remainder of the
bass, maximum length 35cm (13.8 open season. If in doubt as to the extent
in.), except from May 1 to Jun 15, no of these restrictions, please contact the
smallmouth bass may be retained. local Federal fishery officer.
EXTENDED SEASONS FOR HALIFAX COUNTY

SMALLMOUTH BASS Moser River, upstream from the
Apr 1 to Dec 31. Bag limit three (3) highway bridge at Moser River, not
bass.Banook Lake and Micmac Lake, including tributaries, May 26 to end of all
Halifax County. fishing seasons.
Sackville River, from a point 50 m below
Note that all lakes with extended seasons the Shore Drive Bridge, near Bedford,
for chain pickerel are also open for upstream to a point 200 m upstream
smallmouth bass. See list below. from the Lucasville Road Bridge, not
including tributaries, Jun 1 to the end of
CHAIN PICKEREL all fishing seasons.
Apr 1 to Oct 31, except for waters Little Sackville River, from the
referred to in the listings below: All waters confluence with the Sackville River
east of the Highway 102 from Its junction upstream to the outlet of Feely Lake, not
with the Highway 104, to Highway 118 to including tributaries, Jun 1 to the end of
Highway 107 to Highway 328 (Ross Road) all fishing seasons.
near Upper Lawrencetown, CLOSED ALL West River Sheet Harbour, from the
YEAR. concrete piers located downstream of the
Highway 7 Bridge upstream to the Killag
Lake Egmont, Halifax County. Apr 1 to River, not including tributaries, May 26 to
Sep 30. Banook Lake, Micmac Lake, Red the end of all fishing seasons.
Bridge Pond, Grand Lake (Shubenacadie),
Powder Mill Lake, Morris Lake, Russell LUNENBURG COUNTY
Lake, Kinsac Lake, Fish Lake (near Gold River, from the highway 3 bridge
Oakfield), Bisset Lake, Beaver Bank Lake, upstream to the Larder River, not
Beaver Pond (near Kinsac Lake), Halifax including tributaries, May 26 to the end
County, OPEN ALL YEAR. of all fishing seasons.
WHITE PERCH AND YELLOW PERCH

The season corresponds with the open
season for smallmouth bass or trout. In
areas with extended seasons, perch may
also be retained. Bag Limit, twenty-five
(25) fish.
• 2 2 35
WATERS CLOSED TO ALL ANGLING West River Sheet Harbour, from the
FOR ALL SPECIES Highway 7 bridge downstream to the
foot bridge, closed to all angling for all
HALIFAX COUNTY species, Jun 15 to July 31.
East River Sheet Harbour from the Lake Echo, Halifax County. From the
Fisheries and Oceans Canada barrier Highway 7 Bridge to a point 500 Meters
dam upstream to Malay Falls, including downstream. Closed May 27, 2021 at
tributaries, closed Apr 1 to Apr 14. 6:00 to May 29, 2021 at 6:00.
East River Sheet Harbour, from the
Powerhouse at Ruth Falls downstream LUNENBURG COUNTY
200m, including tributaries, closed Jun 1 Gold River, from a point 200 m upstream
to Sep 30. from the Highway 3 Bridge upstream to
Ingram River, from a point 23 m the Larder River, including tributaries,
downstream from the Highway 3 bridge to closed Apr 1 to May 14.
a point 23 m upstream from that bridge, Gold River, the Dipping Pool located
including tributaries, CLOSED ALL YEAR. between the Cable Pool and the Kill Devil
Kirby River, from a point 15 m Pool, including tributaries, closed May 15
downstream from the Highway 24 bridge to Aug 15. Wallace Brook, from Petite
to 15 m upstream from that bridge, Riviere at Crousetown to a point 180 m
including tributaries, closed Jun 1 to upstream, including tributaries, closed
Sep 30. Apr 1 to Sep 30.
One of the mature adult Atlantic salmon, reared from wild smolt captured in the spring of
2018, being released to spawn in the West Sheet Harbour in October 2020. This is the result of
a collaborative effort involving the Nova Scotia Dept. of Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Nova
Scotia Salmon Association and Dalhousie University Aquaculture Centre (Truro campus).
Pictured: Audrie-Jo McConkey (Dal-AC), Darryl Murrant (NSDFA) and Dr. Eddie Halfyard (NSSA).
(Photo: K. Hunter)
36 • 2 2
Meaghers Grant
KEY
Musquodoboit
Lower Meaghers Grant River Sections
357
Gibraltar Open May 1 - Sep 30
Hill Any gear to Aug 31
Crawford’s Bridge Open May 1 - Sep 30
Saddleback Lake Fly only
357 Open Jun 1 - Sep 30
Quaver Lake Any gear to Aug 31
Paces Lake
Chapel Island
7
Chezzetcook Lake
7
Pepetswick Inlet Head of Jeddore
HWY 107
West Jeddore
Pleasant Point
Bayers Point Nauffts Point

EAST TAYLOR BAY LAKE, HALIFAX COUNTY
Including all lakes and tributaries flowing into East Taylor Bay Lake. Bag Limit two
(2) speckled trout, Apr 1 to Aug 31. Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be
released.
MUSQUODOBOIT RIVER, HALIFAX COUNTY

From the mouth of Musquodoboit Harbour to Chapel Island, Apr 1 to Apr 30,
closed to all angling for all species. Open May 1 to Sep 30, any gear to Aug 31.
From a point 300 m downstream from the Highway 7 Bridge to Chapel Island, Apr
1 to May 31, closed to all angling for all species. Open Jun 1 to Sep 30, any gear
to Aug 31.
From a point 300 m downstream from the Highway 7 Bridge (including Tom
Vaughans Pool), upstream (including Bayer Lake) to a point 100 m above
Crawfords Bridge, Apr 1 to Apr 30, closed to all angling for all species. Open May
1 to Sep 30, artificial fly only. Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released.
From a point 100 m above Crawfords Bridge upstream to the Hwy 224 Bridge in
Upper Musquodoboit, Apr 1 to Apr 30, closed to all angling for all species. Open
May 1 to Aug 31, any gear.
From the mouth of Musquodoboit Harbour upstream to the Hwy 224 Bridge in
Upper Musquodoboit, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than
35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
contd. on page 38
• 2 2 37
New Germany
Lake
KEY
LaHave River Sections Sherbrooke Lake
Morgan Falls
Morgan Falls
Single hook lure or artificial fly

only, natural bait is prohibited
Apr 1 to May 25
Artificial fly only May 26 Wentzells

Lake
to end of all fishing seasons
Lakes not included in Special Rhyno

Management Area Lake
103
CN Railway
Bridge Silver Hill Brook
LAHAVE RIVER, LUNENBURG COUNTY

LaHave River from Silver Hill Brook upstream to the South end of Wentzells Lake,
Apr 1 to May 25, single hook lure or artificial fly only, natural bait is prohibited.
From May 26 to the end of all fishing seasons, artificial fly only. Bag limit three
(3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length. Sep 1 to
Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released, bag limit three (3) trout (brown or
rainbow), only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
LaHave River upstream from north end of Wentzells Lake to south end of New
Germany Lake, West Branch of the LaHave River to Rhynos Lake, North Branch of the
LaHave River upstream from north end of Wentzells Lake to south end of Sherbrooke
Lake, Apr 1 to May 25, any gear. May 26 to end of all fishing seasons, artificial fly
only. LaHave River from Morgans Falls to a point 90 m downstream
Apr 1 to May 25, any gear. May 26 to May 31, artificial fly only. Jun 1 to end of all
fishing seasons, closed to all angling for all species.
Bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total
length. Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released, bag limit three (3) trout
Note: Does not include lakes and tributaries. Wentzells Lake, Rhyno Lake, Texas
Lake, Indian Lake, Lake Peter, Lake William and New Germany Lake are not
included in Special Trout Management Area.
Pools closed to all angling, Jun 15 to Oct 31, are: Cooks Falls, Veinotes Pool, Oak
Run, Bruhms Bridge Pool, Dauphinees Run, Wentzells Eddy, Foot of Wentzells
Lake, Cemetery Pool, Fancys Pool, details of pool closures are available from DFO.
contd. on page 39
38 • 2 2
PETITE RIVIERE, LUNENBURG COUNTY
From the Highway 331 Bridge upstream to Hebb Lake, not including Fancys Lake
or tributaries. Apr 1 to Jun 14, single hook lure or artificial fly only, natural bait is
prohibited. Jun 15 to end of all fishing seasons, artificial fly only. Bag limit three
(3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length. Sep 1 to
Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released, bag limit three (3) brown or rainbow
trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
CATCH AND RELEASE WATERS

The following lakes in Halifax County will be catch and release only: Birch Hill
Lake, Blueberry Lake, East Duck Lake, Five Island Lake, Five Island Lake Run,
Frederick Lake, Holland Marsh Lake, Hubley Big Lake, Jacket Lake, Lizard Lake,
Sheldrake Lake and Woodens River (downstream from the outflow of Hubley Big
Lake, including all lakes and tributaries). Single hook lure or artificial fly, natural
bait is prohibited.
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES

A SIGNIFICANT THREAT TO FRESHWATER AND MARINE HABITAT
HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES
INFORMATION FOR ANGLERS AND BOATERS • DRY your boots, waders, boat, tackle,
Invasive species are non-native AQUATIC
AQUATIC INVASIVE
plants and INVASIVE SPECIES
SPECIES
trailer, and other boating equipment in
animals that may A spread
SIGNIFICANT rapidly and cause
THREAT
A SIGNIFICANT THREAT TO FRESHWATER TO FRESHWATER
the sun for 5 AND MARINE
MARINE HABITAT
days (recommended)
AND HABITATto kill
harm. They pose a significant threat
HELP STOP
to
STOP THE
THE SPREAD
SPREAD OF harmfulINVASIVE
OF AQUATIC
AQUATIC speciesSPECIES
INVASIVE that were not visible at
SPECIES
HELP
biodiversity and are costly to manage and
the boat launch.
control once established.FOR
INFORMATION
INFORMATION Prevention
FOR ANGLERS
ANGLERS of new AND
AND
introductions
BOATERS
BOATERS is the highest priority.
Some aquatic
Invasive
Invasive species
species cannon-native
species are
are survive more
non-native plants
plants and
and animals
animals
than two that
weeks
that
a
may
may spread
out
spread
significant
of rapidly
water.
rapidly and cause
cause harm.
Adopting
and the
harm. They
They pose
pose
significant threat to biodiversity and are costly to
threat to biodiversity and are costly
followingamanage
recommendations
manage and control
and oncewill
control once help reduce
established.
established.
to
Prevention of
Prevention of
the risk ofnew
newspreading aquatic
introductions
introductions is the
is invasive
the highest
highest species.
priority.
priority.
Some
Some aquatic
aquatic species
species can
can survive
survive more
more than
than two
two
weeks out of water. Adopting the following
• CLEANweeks youroutboat,
of water. Adopting the following
recommendations motor, trailer,
will help
help reduceand the risk
risk of
of
recommendations will reduce the WATERCRAFTCHECK
WATERCRAFT
WATERCRAFT CHECK POINTS
CHECK POINTS
POINTS
boating equipment
spreading
spreading aquaticsuch
aquatic as species.
invasive
invasive anchors and
species.
fishing•• CLEAN
gear, centerboards,
CLEAN your
your boat,
boat, motor,rollers,
motor, trailer, and
trailer, and
and boating
boating
equipment
equipment suchsuch asas anchors
anchors andand fishing
fishing gear,
axles. centerboards,
Remove any
centerboards, animals
rollers,
rollers, and axles.
and axles. plantsgear,
and Remove
Remove that
any
any
are visible
animalsbefore
animals and
leaving
and plants
plants that
anyvisible
that are
waterbody.
are visible before leaving
before leaving
any
any waterbody. Rinse your boat and equipment that
waterbody. Rinse your boat and equipment that
Rinse normally
your boat
normally gets
and
gets wet
equipment
wet with
with hot
hot tap
that(greater than
tap water
water (greater than
40°C), or spray your boat and trailer with high
normally40°C),gets wet (250
or spray
pressure water
withpsi).
your
water (250
hotand
boat taptrailer
water with high
pressure psi).
(greater than 40°C), or spray your boat and
•• DRAIN
DRAIN water
water from
from the
the motor,
motor, live
live well,
well, bilge
bilge and
and
trailer transom
with high
transom wells
pressure
wells while
while on
water
on land
(250 psi).
land immediately
immediately before
before
leaving
leaving the
the waterbody.
waterbody.
• DRAIN• DRY
water from the motor,boat, live well,trailer, and
• DRY your
your boots,
boots, waders,
waders, boat, tackle,
tackle, trailer, and
bilge and
othertransom
other boating wells while
boating equipment
equipment in the
in on for
the sun
sun land
for 5 days
5 days
(recommended) to to kill
kill harmful
harmful species
species that
that were
were not
not
immediately before leaving the waterbody.
(recommended)
visible at the boat launch.
visible at the boat launch.
• 2 2 39
Digby, Queens, Shelburne
4 and Yarmouth Counties
Recreational Fishing Area 4
SEASONS Hidden Hills Lake and Victoria Lake,

SPECKLED TROUT, BROWN TROUT, Queens County.
AND RAINBOW TROUT Beaver Dam Lake, Shelburne County.
Inland and Tidal Waters - Apr 1 to Sep
30 except the waters referred to in the NIGHT FISHING FOR BROWN TROUT
listings below. Mersey River, Queens County,
Sep 1 to Sep 30, no speckled trout may downstream from Lake Rossignol to the
be retained, and natural bait is prohibited dam at Cowie Falls, Apr 1 to Oct 31.
in all waters for all trout species, including
Special Trout Management Areas, except SMALLMOUTH BASS
waters with extended seasons for trout. Apr 1 to Oct 31, bag limit five (5) bass,
except the Special Bass Management
Areas and Extended Seasons.
SPECIAL BASS MANAGEMENT AREAS
are inclusive. Salmon River Lake, Digby County.
Ten Mile Lake, Little Ten Mile Lake,
SPECIAL TROUT MANAGEMENT AREAS and the Mersey River, Queens County.
Kemptback Lake, Ogden, Parr, and
First, Second, Third, and Fourth Petes Lakes and Lake Vaughan
Christopher lakes, Queens County. Reservoir, Yarmouth County.
Apr 1 to Aug 31, bag limit two (2) Apr 1 to Dec 31, bag limit three (3)
trout. Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled bass, maximum length 35cm (13.8
trout must be released. in.), except from May 1 to Jun 15 no
Big Meadow Brook, Tusket River, smallmouth bass may be retained.
Yarmouth County. Upstream from Night fishing is only permitted during
Highway 203 near East Kemptville, the open season in Salmon River Lake,
Apr 1 to Sep 30. Catch and release Ogden, Parr, and Petes lakes and the
only, single hook lure or artificial fly, Mersey River, downstream from Lake
natural bait is prohibited. Rossignol to the dam at Cowie Falls.
EXTENDED SEASONS FOR RAINBOW EXTENDED SEASONS FOR

TROUT AND/OR SPECKLED TROUT SMALLMOUTH BASS
OPEN ALL YEAR. The bag limit is Apr 1 to Dec 31. Wentworth Lake,
reduced to two (2) trout, either species or Digby County. Doctors Lake, Lake
combined, Oct 1 to Mar 31. Milo, Middle Lake and Raynards Lake,
Everitt’s Lake, Digby County. Yarmouth County.
40 • 2 2
CHAIN PICKEREL, WHITE PERCH AND QUEENS COUNTY
YELLOW PERCH Medway River, from a point 100m
Apr 1 to Oct 31, except the following downstream from the highway bridge on
which are OPEN ALL YEAR: the Old Westfield Road near Harmony Mills
Annis River and Kiack Brook, Yarmouth upstream to, but excluding McGowan Lake,
County, including all lakes and tributaries. including tributaries, Jun 1 to Dec 31.
Walls Lake, The Ponds in Port Latour, Medway River, the “Lake Pool”, upstream
Bakers Flats on Cape Sable Island, and from the highway bridge at highway 210
Lake George, Shelburne County. at Greenfield, to a straight line drawn from
Louis Lake, Queens County. grid reference 352032 4903571 to grid
Meteghan River, Digby County, including reference 352155 4903817 (immediately
all lakes and tributaries. above the small island at the outlet of
Ponhook Lake), Jun 15 to Dec 31.
ARTIFICIAL FLY ONLY Medway River, from the highway 210
Fishing is permitted with artificial flies bridge at Greenfield downstream to the
only in the sections of the following rivers highway 103 bridge, Jun 15 to July 31.
during the times listed. Other methods
are permitted during the remainder of the YARMOUTH COUNTY
open season. If in doubt as to the extent of Tusket River, from the highway bridge
these restrictions, please contact the local crossing the canal at the southern end
Federal fishery officer. of Lake Vaughan Reservoir downstream
to the powerhouse dam, including
QUEENS COUNTY tributaries, Apr 1 to Jun 30.
Medway River, from the Highway 103
bridge upstream to McGowan Lake, not ANGLING SEASONS FOR OTHER
including Ponhook Lake or tributaries, May SPECIES
26 to the end of all fishing seasons. (See page 7)
Mersey River, from the upstream
abutment of the highway bridge on Bridge NOTE: Kejimkujik National Park & National
Street in Milton to the dam at Cowie Falls, Historic Site. A National Parks general
May 26 to the end of all fishing seasons. fishing permit as well as a park entry
permit is required to angle in the park. For
WATERS CLOSED TO ALL ANGLING more information contact the Park Office
FOR ALL SPECIES (See page 21).
DIGBY COUNTY
Salmon River, downstream from the Photo: Pat Taylor
Route 1 Highway Bridge approximately
500 m to a line drawn across the Salmon
River from grid reference 726822
4881333 to grid reference 726803
4881420, including tributaries,
May 1 to Dec 31.
• 2 2 41
5 Annapolis, Hants and Kings Counties
SEASONS SMALLMOUTH BASS
SPECKLED (BROOK) TROUT, BROWN Apr 1 to Oct 31, except Special Bass
TROUT, AND RAINBOW TROUT Management Areas and Extended Seasons.
Inland and Tidal Waters - Apr 1 to Sep Annapolis County, bag limit five (5) bass.
30 except the waters referred to in the Kings County, bag limit five (5) bass.
listings below. Hants County, bag limit twenty-five
Sep 1 to Sep 30, no speckled trout (25) bass.
may be retained, and natural bait is
prohibited in all waters for all trout
species, including Special Trout SPECIAL BASS MANAGEMENT AREAS
Management Areas, except waters with Black River Lake, Little River Lake,
extended seasons for trout. Methals Lake, and Aylesford Lake
Aylesford Lake (including Loon Lake),
NOTE: The following regulations do not Kings County.
apply to the lakes and tributaries of those Panuke Lake, Hants County.
rivers unless specified. All season dates Apr 1 to Dec 31, bag limit three (3)
are inclusive. bass, maximum length 35 cm
(13.8 in.) except from May 1 to Jun 15
no smallmouth bass may be retained,
EXTENDED SEASONS FOR RAINBOW
night fishing is permitted.
TROUT AND/OR SPECKLED TROUT
The bag limit is reduced to two (2) trout,
either species or combined, Oct 1 to Mar 31. EXTENDED SEASONS FOR
Rumsey Lake, Annapolis County, May 15 SMALLMOUTH BASS
to Oct 31. Gaspereau Lake, Kings County.
Sunken Lake, Kings County, May 15 to Apr 1 to Dec 31.
Oct 31 and Jan 1 to Mar 31.
Silver Lake near Lakeville, Kings County, CHAIN PICKEREL, WHITE PERCH AND
Apr 1 to Sep 30 and Jan 1 to Mar 31. YELLOW PERCH
Meadow Pond, Hants County, Apr 1 to Oct 31, except in the following
OPEN ALL YEAR. which are OPEN ALL YEAR:
Note: not all lakes contain rainbow trout. Lily Lake (Cogmagun Pond),
Hants County.
NIGHT FISHING FOR BROWN TROUT Lake Paul, Lake George, Nicholas Lake,
Cornwallis River, Kings County, and North River Lake, Kings County.
Apr 1 to Oct 31.
WHITE PERCH AND YELLOW PERCH
Apr 1 to Oct 31, except in the following
which are OPEN ALL YEAR:
Springfield Lake, Annapolis County.
Woodward Sandford Lake, Hants County.
42 • 2 2
CORNWALLIS RIVER, KINGS COUNTY
Downstream from the South Bishop Road bridge to the Highway 101 Bridge, Apr 1 to Aug
31, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited, bag limit one (1) trout (either
brown or speckled) which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length. Sep 1 to
Sep 30, all specked trout must be released, bag limit one (1) brown trout which must be
greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length, single hook lure or artificial fly.
Entire river Oct 1 to Oct 31, brown trout only, catch and release, artificial fly only.
THE UPPER MEDWAY SPECIAL TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA, ANNAPOLIS COUNTY

The following lakes and the waters that connect these lakes within the Upper
Medway Lakes Wilderness Area: Lake of Five Hardwood Hills, Small Spectacle
Lakes, Alma Lake, Croker Lakes, Mistake Lake, Hendry Lake, Handshaw Lakes,
Birch Lakes, Medway Lake, McVicker Lake, Frog Lake, Bear Lake, George Lake,
First Lake, Lohnes Lake, Gull Lake, Upper Gull Lake, Allison Lake, Rocky Lake,
Thomas Lake, Gang Lake, Elder Lake, Sunrise Lake, First Branch Lake. Apr 1 to
Aug 30, Bag limit (2) trout, Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released,
bag limit (2) trout (brown or rainbow), natural bait is prohibited.
Graywood
1
2
THE UPPER MEDWAY SPECIAL
8
TROUT MANAGEMENT AREA 4
15
7 5
Milford 20
16 6
21
17
South Milford 13 8
12
22
18
10
8 9
23 19
11
24
KEY TO THE LAKES
1 Lake of Five Hardwood Hills 9 Medway Lake 17 Upper Gull Lake
2 Small Spectacle Lakes 10 McVicker Lake 18 Allison Lake
3 Alma Lake 11 Frog Lake 19 Rocky Lake
4 Croker Lakes 12 Bear Lake 14 20 Thomas Lake
5 Mistake Lake 13 George Lake 21 Gang Lake
6 Hendry Lake 14 First Lake 22 Elder Lake
7 Handshaw Lakes 15 Lohnes Lake 23 Sunrise Lake
8 Birch Lakes 16 Gull Lake 24 First Branch Lake
• 2 2 43
Gaspereau River, White Rock Pond, from a
NOTE: Kejimkujik National Park and point 152 m downstream from the bridge
National Historic Site A National Parks at White Rock (Deep Hollow Road Bridge),
general fishing permit as well as a park downstream to the first highway bridge
entry permit is required to angle in the upstream from the White Rock Power
park. For more information contact the Station, Open Apr 1 to Sep 30 (Apr 1 to
Park Office (See page 21). May 1, single hook lure or artificial fly).
Gaspereau River, from a point 152m
WATERS CLOSED TO ALL ANGLING downstream from the highway bridge at
FOR ALL SPECIES White Rock (Deep Hollow Road Bridge) to
point 213m upstream from that bridge,
KINGS COUNTY including tributaries, CLOSED ALL YEAR.
Gaspereau River, from the White Rock
power station upstream to the first ANGLING SEASONS FOR OTHER
highway bridge, including tributaries, SPECIES
CLOSED ALL YEAR. (See page 7)
KEY
Gaspereau River
Closed all year
Open Apr 1 to Sep 30 (Apr 1 to May 1,
single hook lure or artificial fly).
Black River Rd.
White Rock Rd.
Deep Hollow Rd.
White Rock
Pond
White
Rock
Deep Hollow
Rd. Bridge White Rock
Power Station
44 • 2 2
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Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters

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to air their concerns. The NSFAH has been that voice since 1930. Your support is needed to assure that
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To join NSFAH, visit www.nsfah.ca/membership/ OR complete the form below and mail to: NSFAH, PO
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Individual membership $25.00. Family Membership $35.00 (spouse + children under 18)
Membership Application (Photocopy and mail)
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Credit Card No. ________________________________ Expiry Date: Month: ________ Year: _____
CSC _________________ (Security Code) Signature: ____________________________________
Nova Scotia F
N Federation of • 2 2 45
6 Colchester and Cumberland Counties
SEASONS Great Village River, downstream from

SPECKLED (BROOK) TROUT, BROWN the confluence with Spencers Brook,
TROUT, AND RAINBOW TROUT including tributaries.
Tidal Waters - Apr 15 to Sep 30. North River, downstream from the
Inland Waters - Apr 1 to Sep 30, except confluence of the West Branch North
the waters referred to in the listings below. River, including tributaries.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, no speckled trout may Portapique River, downstream from
be retained, and natural bait is prohibited the confluence with Matheson Brook,
in all waters for all trout species, including including tributaries.
Special Trout Management Areas, except Salmon River, downstream from the
in waters with extended seasons for trout. confluence with Greenfield Brook,
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Shinimicas River, downstream from the
No. 6 Highway bridge, including tributaries,
are inclusive.
open Apr 15 to Sep 30, closed to all
angling for all species Apr 1 to Apr 14.
COLCHESTER COUNTY River Hebert, downstream from the bridge
The following waters are open Apr 15 near the tree nursery in the Chignecto
to Sep 30, closed to all angling for all Game Sanctuary, including tributaries,
species Apr 1 to Apr 14. open May 15 to Sep 30, closed to all
French River, downstream from the 246 angling for all species Apr 1 to May 14.
Highway Bridge at Oliver.
Waugh’s River, downstream from the 256 EXTENDED SEASONS FOR RAINBOW
Highway Bridge at The Falls. TROUT AND/OR SPECKLED TROUT
OPEN ALL YEAR. The bag limit is
The following waters are open May 15 reduced to two (2) trout, either species or
to Sep 30, closed to all angling for all combined, Oct 1 to Mar 31.
species Apr 1 to May 15. Angevine (Dewars) Lake, Harrison Lake,
Chiganois River, downstream from and Isaac Lake, Cumberland County.
the CN Railway bridge at Belmont, Deyarmont Lake, Colchester County.
Debert River, downstream from the CN SMALLMOUTH BASS
Railway bridge, including tributaries. CLOSED ALL YEAR, except the following:
Economy River, downstream from Apr 1 to Sep 30, bag limit twenty-five
the confluence with Callaghan Brook, (25) bass.
including tributaries. Angevine Lake, Big Lake, and Mattatall
Folly River, downstream from the CN Lake, Cumberland County.
Railway bridge, including tributaries. Round Lake, Colchester County.
46 • 2 2
SPECIAL BASS MANAGEMENT AREAS WHITE PERCH AND YELLOW PERCH
Apr 1 to Sep 30, except in the following:
Shortt’s Lake, Colchester County, Smiths Lakes and Long Lake,
Apr 1 to Dec 31, bag limit three (3) Cumberland County, Jan 1 to Sep 30.
bass, maximum length 35cm (13.8 Angevine (Dewar) Lake, Harrison Lake,
in.), except from May 1 to Jun 15 no and Issac Lake, Cumberland County,
smallmouth bass may be retained. OPEN ALL YEAR.
Shortt’s Lake, Colchester County, OPEN
CHAIN PICKEREL ALL YEAR.
Apr 1 to Sep 30. Bag limit: 100 fish.
except the following: Shortt’s Lake, ANGLING SEASONS FOR OTHER SPECIES
Colchester County, OPEN ALL YEAR. (See page 7)
KEY
Stewiacke River Sections
Apr 15 - Aug 31, any gear except Upper Stewiake
May 10 - Jun 10 and Sep 1 - Sep 30,
single hook lure or fly only Upper Stewiake
289
298 Bridge (see inset)
May 10 - Jul 15, single hook lure or fly only
Jul 16 - Sep 30 fly only
Apr 1 - Aug 31, any gear
Sep 1 - Sep 30, natural bait
prohibited
CN Bridge
McKay Siding
CN Train Tracks Stewiake East

Fort Ellis HWY 102 Bridge
Stewiake East
HWY 2 Bridge
Stewiake
STEWIACKE RIVER, COLCHESTER COUNTY

Downstream from the CN railway bridge near McKay Siding, Apr 1 to Apr 14,
closed to all angling for all species.
Apr 15 to May 9 and Jun 11 to Aug 31, any gear permitted.
May 10 to Jun 10, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait prohibited.
Upstream from the CN railway bridge near McKay Siding to the highway bridge
farthest upstream in Upper Stewiacke, not including tributaries, Apr 1 to May 9,
closed to all angling for all species.
contd. on page 48
• 2 2 47
STEWIACKE RIVER, CONTINUED
May 10 to Jul 15, single hook lure or artificial fly, natural bait is prohibited.
Jul 16 to Aug 31, artificial fly only.
May 10 to Aug 31, Bag limit one (1) trout which must be greater than 35 cm
(either brown or rainbow) which must be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
Upstream from the highway bridge farthest upstream in Upper Stewiacke,

Apr 1 to Aug 31, any gear permitted.
Sep 1 to Sep 30, all speckled trout must be released.
Night angling for brown trout is permitted from the Lansdowne bridge downstream
to the bridge in Stewiacke East during the open season.
MACCAN RIVER, CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Downstream from the highway 2 bridge at Southampton, Apr 1 to May 14, catch
and release only, artificial fly only. May 15 to Aug 15, bag limit three (3) trout,
only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length, any gear permitted.
Aug 16 to Sep 30, catch and release only, artificial fly only.
RIVER PHILIP, CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Downstream from the Mountain Road Bridge (Spencers Bridge) in the Community
of River Phillip.
Apr 1 to May 14, catch and release only, artificial fly only.
May 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout, only one (1) may be greater than 35
cm (13.8 in) total length, any gear permitted.
Night angling for brown trout is permitted upstream from the Mountain Road
Bridge (Spencers Bridge) not including tributaries, May 15 to Aug 31.
WALLACE RIVER, CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Downstream from the Highway 4 Bridge at Wentworth Center, Apr 1 to Apr 14,
closed to all angling for all species. Apr 15 to Aug 31, bag limit three (3) trout,
only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
(brown or rainbow) only one (1) may be greater than 35 cm (13.8 in) total length.
48 • 2 2
CANADA’S AQUATIC SPECIES AT RISK
Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA), created in 2003 to prevent Canadian wildlife
species from becoming extinct, includes prohibitions that make it illegal to kill, harm,
harass, capture or take a species listed as endangered or threatened under SARA or to
destroy their critical habitat. Fines up to $1,000,000 are possible for offences.
In Nova Scotia, the inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic salmon and the Atlantic whitefish are
listed as endangered and protected under SARA. It is important that anglers do not
target catch or retain either of these species.
Inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic salmon:
This population occupies rivers that empty into the upper Bay of Fundy (blue area on
map). The main characteristic identifying the difference between an Atlantic salmon
and a Brown trout are shown below. Other difference are found on pages 0 and 70.
Atlantic Salmon
Brown Trout (mouth extends beyond eye)

Illustrations by: J. O. Pennanen/Atlantic Salmon Federation©
Atlantic whitefish: The Petite Rivière Watershed in

Lunenburg County (red area on map) is home to the only
known population of Atlantic whitefish. Atlantic whitefish
differ from the more common Lake whitefish in that the
Atlantic whitefish jaw extends to its snout, has a smaller
pectoral fin ray and smaller scales than the Lake whitefish. Atlantic whitefish
Please report any sightings of Atlantic whitefish to
Fisheries and Oceans Canada at 902-354-6030.
If you catch an Atlantic whitefish or Inner Bay of Fundy Salmon, release it
immediately in the location of capture with the least amount of harm possible.
TO REPORT A FISHING VIOLATION, CALL 1-800-565-1633; OR, REPORT
ANONYMOUSLY TO NS CRIME STOPPERS AT 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
For more information / Pour obtenir plus de renseignements

www.sararegistry.gc.ca or www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/species-especes/
• 2 2 49
50 • 2 2
community nutrition and economic well being,
without jeopardizing the integrity, diversity or
productivity of our native environment.
The Constitution of Canada has entrenched
Aboriginal and Treaty Rights within the laws of
Canada. As a result of this, the courts have upheld
the rights contained in the Treaty of 1752 and the
underlying Aboriginal right that the Mi’kmaq have
to harvest natural resources in Nova Scotia under
Dear Friends: their traditional authority and guidelines.
It is with great pleasure and pride that we intro- Article 4 of the Treaty of 1752 states in part:
duce to you in this insert the Mi’kmaq concept “It is agreed that the said Tribe of Indians
and tradition of NETUKULIMK. (Mi’kmaq) shall not be hindered from, but have free
liberty of hunting, fishing and fowling as usual…”
Grand Council of Mi’kmaq
On October 1, 1993 the Premier of Nova Scotia,
The Mi’kmaq Aboriginal people of Nova Scotia have
the Honourable John Savage formally proclaimed
been harvesting animal, fowl, fish and plant life for
on behalf of Nova Scotia ‘the Government of Nova
over 10,000 years. We have managed this harvest
Scotia recognizes all Treaties which were signed in
within our own communities since time immemo-
good faith between the Crown and the Mi’kmaq”.
rial and continue to do so today. Our past, present
and future Mi’kmaq society and economy is based In Nova Scotia there are some 70,000 sportfisher-
on the use of the natural resources. Conservation men and some 77,000 sport hunters within the non-
and management of these resources have and native community. The total Aboriginal harvesting
still are an important part of Mi’kmaq culture. We community represents ½ of 1 per cent of the total
have an intimate knowledge of the land, waters and non-native population hunting and fishing today.
natural life in and around Mi’kma’ki, our traditional We have made our peace and friendship and we
territory, part of which is present day Nova Scotia. have agreed to co-exist and co-share. Today it is
After European contact some 500 years ago, the time to work together to ensure that all our chil-
Mi’kmaq and the British established formal agree- dren will have the same right or privilege to access
ment for a co-existence and friendship relation- animal, fowl, fish, and plant life in the future.
ship through a series of Nation to Nation Treaties. For more information about our work and con-
“When the English began to make their new cerns about our natural environment contact:
homes in our land our fore fathers protected
the liveli-hood and survival of the Mi’kmaq by The Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq
signing Treaties with their Kings. Throughout the Main Office
seasons the Treaties have remained.” 57 Martin Crescent, PO Box 1590
Truro, NS, B2N 5V3
Grand Chief Donald Marshall Sr. Tel. 902.895.6385, Toll Free. 1.877.892.2424
October 1, 1986 Fax. 902.893.1520
Today the Mi’kmaq harvest the natural Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources
resources through a concept known as Netuku- 4102 Shore Road, Eskasoni, NS, B1W 1M4
limk. Netukulimk includes the use of the natural Tel (902) 379-2163, Fax (902) 379-2250
bounty, provided by the Creator, for the self-
Native Council of Nova Scotia
support and well being of the individual and the
129 Truro Heights Road, P.O. Box 1320
community at large. Without limiting the mean-
Truro, NS, B2N 5N2
ing of the concept of Netukulimk, the objective Toll Free: 1-800-565-4372, Direct: 902-895-1523
includes achieving adequate standards of Fax: 902-895-0024
• 2 2 51
NOVA SCOTIA SPORTFISH HABITAT FUND
In 2020, the Nova Scotia Sportfish Habitat
Fund raised $288,700 through a $5.91 levy
on fishing licences. A total of $230,000
was provided to the Nova Scotia Salmon
Association’s Adopt-A-Stream Program
which funded fish habitat restoration
projects undertaken by 17 community
and First Nation groups throughout the
Lake O Law barrier free site.
province. These projects resulted in the
Completed 2020. Photo: Erin Gillis
restoration of approximately 121,000
square meters of spawning, rearing, over-wintering, and cool water summer refugia
habitat for salmon and trout. Habitat connectivity was an important component of
several projects and passage was improved to 75 km for migrating fish. Other work
focussed on bank stabilization to reduce sedimentation and protecting and restoring
riparian habitat by planting trees along rivers and streams.
In addition to these projects, the Nova Scotia Salmon Association received
$15,000 for a liming project on the West River Sheet Harbour and $20,000 for
catchment liming by helicopter in the same watershed, the Port Morien Wildlife
Association received $12,500 to develop a barrier free sportfishing site at Bernard
Croak Memorial Park in Cape Breton County and Bass Barn Charters and Tours
received $11,200 to install a boat launch in Five Islands, Colchester County.
To learn more about the Fund visit our website:
http://novascotia.ca/fish/funding-programs/
19 Hampton Court Bridgewater, NS. B4V 8W6
52 • 2 2
Guide to
Campfire
Safety
When campfires escape,
they can destroy valuable
resources, habitat and homes.
75% 17 270
of the province is
covered by forests
campfires is the annual
average reported number
hectares is the
average area of land
that cause wildfires* destroyed per year*
Building STEP
ONE:
?
Is burning allowed?
Check the daily burn restrictions at
novascotia.ca/burnsafe or 1 855 564 2876
Choose a safe site
Use a fire pit if available or Keep a 3 metre clearance Prepare the site by scraping the
build on bare rock, soil/sand around and above your fire ground down to bare soil (1m radius)
Burning Campfires should be less than 0.5m high x 0.5m wide.

Small hot fires are easier to cook over and put out.
Use fire starters, kindling and dry wood.
Doing it safely
Never leave your Keep a pail of water Watch children and If it’s windy, do not
campfire unattended and a shovel nearby pets around fire have a campfire
Extinguishing Always put out your campfire before leaving the area.
Your fire is out when the ash doesn’t hiss, no smoke comes
from the ashes and the remnants are cold to the touch.
Cold to the touch means you’re done
Pour a lot Stir in the water Add water and stir until
of water on it with a stick or shovel the ash is cold to the touch
March 15–October 15 campfires are not allowed between 8am-2pm.

Check the daily burn restrictions at novascotia.ca/burnsafe or 1 855 564 2876
Abide by local municipal bylaws. To learn more visit novascotia.ca/campsafe
* Reported Nova Scotia average.
• 2 2 53
NOVA SCOTIA SPORTFISH REGISTRY
LIVE RELEASE CATEGORY
Species Length x Girth Year Angler Location County
Brown Trout 29.0 in X 15.5 in 2016 Dan Boudreau River John Pictou
Smallmouth Bass 23.0 in x 17.0 in 2007 Kevin Corkum Big Mushamush Lake Lunenburg
Speckled Trout 16.0 in x 8.0 in 2013 Neil Graham River Denys Inverness
Striped Bass 51.5 in x 28.5 in 2020 Skyler Jeddore Gull Cove Cape Breton
CATCH AND KEEP CATEGORY
Species Weight Year Angler Location County
Brown Trout 18.20 lbs 2007 Charlie LaHey Mira River Cape Breton
Chain Pickerel 6.94 lbs 2016 Christopher Wood Harris Lake Yarmouth
Landlocked Salmon 4.40 lbs 1988 H. Macdonald Grand Lake Halifax
Rainbow Trout 10.20 lbs 2002 Reggie MacLeod Bras d'Or Lake Cape Breton
Smallmouth Bass 4.50 lbs 1990 Robert Hasenack Kinsac Lake Halifax
Speckled Trout 6.75 lbs 1945 Alex Stephens Blackett's Lake Cape Breton
Striped Bass 57.90 lbs 2008 Christian LeVatte Bras d'Or Lake Cape Breton
White Perch 2.22 lbs 2013 Sawyer Olmstead Reiners Pit Colchester
Yellow Perch 1.20 lbs 2013 Ryan Gould Fish Lake Halifax
YOUTH LIVE RELEASE CATEGORY
Species Length x Girth Year Angler Location County
Brown Trout 20.0 in x 10.5 in 2013 Alex Graham South River Antigonish
Smallmouth Bass 20.0 in x 14.0 in 2009 Ian Keefe Mattatall Cumberland
Speckled Trout 16.7 in x 10.3 in 2009 Josh MacMillan West River Antigonish
Rainbow Trout 23.0 in x 13.5 in 2020 Riley MacKinnon Bras d'Or Lake Cape Breton
YOUTH CATCH AND KEEP CATEGORY CATEGORY
Species Weight Year Angler Location County
Brown Bullhead 1.08 lbs 2007 Alex Cunningham Raynards Lake Yarmouth
Brown Trout 6.69 lbs 2018 Matthew Musgrave Bras d'Or Lake Cape Breton
Chain Pickerel 3.99 lbs 2007 Marcel Boudreau Hibbards Lake Yarmouth
Rainbow Trout 8.38 lbs 1993 Katie Wareham McAskills Brook Cape Breton
Speckled Trout 3.40 lbs 2009 Aidan Doucet Lochabor Lake Antigonish
Yellow Perch 0.76 lbs 2016 Sarah Henderson Mersey River Queens
SMALLMOUTH BASS TOURNAMENT ANGLING (weight for 5-fish bag limits; all fish released)
Weight Year Angler Location County
19.54 lbs 2014 Cody Lohnes, Rob Weagle Big Mushamush Lunenburg
17.26 lbs 2009 Rob Mailman, Peter Lavender Mersey River Queens
15.60 lbs 2008 Rod Goodwin, Ian Ross Ogden, Parr, Petes Lakes Yarmouth
15.56 lbs 2003 Conrad Corporon, Bernard Corporon Lac d'en Bas Digby
15.51 lbs 2005 Jim Langthorne, Ian Langthorne Kempt Back Lake Yarmouth
Nova Scotia Sportfish Registry PO Box 700 Pictou NS B0K 1H0 Phone: (902) 485-5056
Fax: (902) 485-4014 E-mail: inland@novascotia.ca Website: http://novascotia.ca/fish/
54 • 2 2
STAFF PROFILE, INLAND FISHERIES DIVISION, NSFA
Katlyn Boudreau is a Fisheries
Technician at the Dept. of Fisheries
and Aquaculture Fraser’s Mills
Fish Hatchery. She is pictured here
preparing to spawn an Atlantic salmon
from the West River Antigonish.
Katlyn is a graduate of the Nova
Scotia Community College Natural
Resources Environmental Technology
Program and the Holland College-
Atlantic Police Academy (Conservation
Enforcement) Program and has worked
at the hatchery since 2017.
She hails from nearby East Tracadie.
Katlyn is an outdoor enthusiast who
enjoys gardening, hunting and fishing;
having been introduced to these sports
at a young age by her family.
Katlyn takes great pride in her work at
Fraser’s Mills and says that she has been
fortunate to have been mentored by her
very experienced colleagues there. When
not busy at the hatchery, she may be found volunteering with the Tracadie and District
Volunteer Fire Department or promoting her mothers home-made pickles and baked goods.
WINTER FISHING OPPORTUNITIES IN NOVA SCOTIA

For those who love the outdoors, winter fishing is an ideal recreational sport. Fishing licences
for 2021 are valid until Mar 31, 2022. If you anticipate taking part in a winter fishery, please
keep your licence and return your completed licence stub at the end of March.
Season: Jan 1–Mar 31. Anglers are reminded that the following waters are open for angling
in the winter regardless of ice cover; please check ice thickness before venturing out to fish.
Waters open for trout are also open for perch species.
SPECKLED TROUT: BAG LIMIT 10 FISH

Cape Breton Highlands Special Trout Management Area.
RAINBOW TROUT & BROWN TROUT: BAG LIMIT TWO FISH

The tidal waters of the Bras d’Or Lakes, NOT INCLUDING: (1) waters of the Baddeck River
upstream from the Hwy 105 bridge; (2) Northeast (inside) of the East Bay Sandbar; and
(3) waters upstream from Black River bridge in Dundee; (4) waters upstream from Crowdis
Bridge in River Deny’s Basin; and (5) waters upstream from MacKenzie Brook bridge near
South Side Basin of River Deny’s, which remain closed to all angling. Waters inside the Boom
Channel including River Denys and all of River Denys Basin are closed to trout angling from Jan
1 to Mar 31.
• 2 2 55
SPECKLED TROUT AND RAINBOW TROUT
The daily bag limit for speckled and rainbow trout is two (2) fish.
County Lake Speckled Trout Rainbow Trout
Antigonish Cameron Lake 3 3

Antigonish Gillis Lake 3 3
Cape Breton Levers Lake 3 3
Cape Breton No. 20 Dam (Beacon Street) Pond 3 3
Colechester Deyarmont Lake 3
Cumberland Angevine (Dewars) Lake 3 3
Cumberland Isaac Lake 3
Cumberland Harrison Lake 3 3
Digby Everitts Lake 3 3
Guysborough Goose Harbour Lake 3 3
Guysborough McKeen Lake 3
Guysborough Pringle Lake 3
Halifax Albro Lake 3 3
Halifax First Lake 3
Halifax Cow Bay Pond 3
Halifax Round Lake 3 3
Halifax Lewis Lake 3 3
Halifax Maynard Lake 3 3
Halifax Penhorn Lake 3 3
Hants Meadow Pond 3 3
Inverness Petit Lac 3 3
Kings Silver Lake 3 3
Kings Sunken Lake 3 3
Lunenburg Sucker Lake 3 3
Lunenburg Hutt Lake 3
Lunenburg Beck Lake 3
Pictou Gairloch Lake 3 3
Pictou Dryden Lake 3
Queens Hidden Hills Lake 3 3
Queens Victoria Lake 3
Richmond Eco Trial Pond (Isle Madame) 3 3
Shelburne Beaver Dam Lake 3 3
Victoria Dalem (Round) Lake 3
Victoria Grants Pond 3
56 • 2 2
SMALLMOUTH BASS, CHAIN PICKEREL, WHITE PERCH, AND YELLOW PERCH
The daily bag limit for Smallmouth Bass varies by RFA. The daily bag limit for Chain
Pickerel is one hundred (100). The daily bag limit for White Perch and
Yellow Perch is twenty-five (25).
NOTE: The daily bag limit for smallmouth bass is the same as during the summer season. Please refer to the
bag limits listed in each RFA.
White and yellow perch may be harvested (25 fish, each species, per day) in all waters open to winter angling
for trout.
Chain White Yellow

County Lake Pickerel Perch Perch
Annapolis Springfield Lake 3 3
Colchester Shortts Lake 3 3 3
Cumberland Long Lake 3 3
Cumberland Smiths Lake 3 3
Digby Meteghan River, including all lakes and tributaries 3 3 3
Halifax Morris Lake 3 3 3
Halifax Russel Lake 3 3 3
Halifax Grand Lake (Shubenacadie) 3 3 3
Halifax Fish Lake 3 3 3
Halifax Bissett Lake 3 3 3
Halifax Powder Mill Lake 3 3 3
Halifax Micmac Lake 3 3 3
Halifax Red Bridge Pond 3 3 3
Halifax Beaver Bank Lake 3 3 3
Halifax Beaver Pond (near Kinsac Lake) 3 3 3
Halifax Kinsac Lake 3 3 3
Hants Lily Lake (Cogamun Pond) 3 3 3
Hants Woodward Sanford Lake 3 3
Kings Lake George 3 3 3
Kings Nicholas Lake 3 3 3
Kings North River Lake 3 3 3
Kings Lake Paul 3 3 3
Queens Louis Lake 3 3 3
Shelburne Walls Lake 3 3 3
Shelburne Lake George 3 3 3
Ponds in Port LaTour and Bakers Flats,
Shelburne 3 3 3
Cape Sable Island
Yarmouth Annis River 3 3 3
Kiack Brook (Near Belleville South),
Yarmouth 3 3 3
including all lakes and tributaries
• 2 2 57
THE FRESHWATER FISHERIES RESEARCH COOPERATIVE
The freshwater fishery in Nova Scotia has experienced several changes associated with habitat loss,
exploitation, and negative impacts of aquatic invasive species. In response, the Inland Fisheries
Division has expanded research initiatives related to fish ecology, water quality, habitat, fisheries
management, and Atlantic salmon enhancement by creating the Freshwater Fisheries Research
Cooperative (FFRC). 2021 marks the 14th consecutive year that fisheries management initiatives
were supported by the FFRC. Reports of previous FFRC projects are available on
https://novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing/resource-management/
Citizen Science and Invasive Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel

Illegal introductions and migration through waterways have resulted in additional resources needed
to confirm new lakes inhabited by invasive smallmouth bass and chain pickerel. Levi Cliche,
Rachel Walsh, and Samantha Hudson (Clean Annapolis River Project) have organized and trained
a committed group of volunteer anglers as a part of a citizen science initiative to investigate and
confirm new lakes occupied by aquatic invasive species.
Provincial Distribution of Chain Pickerel and Smallmouth Bass

The objective of this project is to track the extent of the smallmouth bass and chain pickerel invasion
across the province. Perry Comolli (Acadia University and NSCC Center of Geographic Science) is
developing a mapping toolkit to analyze invasive species data collected by NSDFA, non-government
organizations, and anglers. The information will assist in the development of strategies to protect the
disappearing invasive-free systems in Nova Scotia.
Mercury Levels in Aquatic Invasive Species in LaHave River

Coastal Action Foundation, under the direction of Brooke Nodding, is undertaking a project to
evaluate mercury contamination in chain pickerel in the LaHave River system. The results of this
study will add to the dataset on mercury levels in fish tissue.
Genetic Origins of Brook Trout in Nova Scotia

The purpose of this project, spearheaded by Dr. Shauna Baillie (DFO), Dr. Sarah Lehnert (DFO) and Dr.
Paul Bentzen (Dalhousie University), is to identify the genetic origins of brook trout in Nova Scotia.
Genetics from samples collected across Nova Scotia will be compared to the rest of the species’
native North American range (from the Carolinas through Labrador, including Ontario and Quebec).
Aging of Chain Pickerel

Aging allows for the determination of growth rates and a better understanding of fish populations.
Dr. Katherine Jones (Cape Breton University) is aging otoliths, scales, and cleithra bones that were
collected from several chain pickerel populations. The results will be compared to determine the best
method for future aging studies on chain pickerel.
Response of Trout and Salmon to Restoration Initiatives

Kris Hunter (St. Francis Xavier University, Atlantic Salmon Federation), in collaboration with Adopt
A Stream, is examining long term changes of stream habitat and fish populations before and after
instream restoration work. This project will provide valuable insight into the changes associated with
habitat restoration and future considerations to improve degraded habitat.
Are Lake Trout Populations Wild or the Result of Stocking?

Lake trout, unlike brook trout, are only known to be present in Sherbrooke Lake, Lunenburg County,
and Dollar Lake, Halifax County. Dr. Samuel Andrews and Matt Warner (Canadian Rivers Institute,
University of New Brunswick) are evaluating historical stocking records to determine if there is
evidence to support that lake trout populations originate from past stocking activities or if they
should be considered as a wild species in Nova Scotia.
58 • 2 2
Inland Fisheries Division Activities
Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
INLAND FISHERIES HATCHERY usually hosts around 70 events, providing
STOCKING PROGRAMS kids the opportunity to take up a sport
Growing fish and delivering smiles they can enjoy for a lifetime. Despite
is the mission of the Provincial fish the 2020 cancellations, most lakes were
hatcheries. The smiles could be on a stocked, and anglers were able to get out
seasoned angler, cradling an Atlantic and enjoy themselves while keeping a
salmon in the Margaree River, a grade safe distance from one another.
5 Learn to Fish student, catching their An additional 175 lakes are stocked each
first pan-sized brookie, or an urban fall, usually after the angling season
angler with a silver rainbow trout. The closes, as part of our Fall Fisheries
Province operates three hatcheries; Enhancement Program. Speckled trout
Fraser’s Mills Hatchery, in Antigonish Co., account for most of this effort but
Margaree Hatchery, in Inverness Co. and Brown trout and sea-run Atlantic salmon
McGowan Lake Hatchery in Queens Co.. populations are also enhanced at this
Stocking initiatives are probably the most time of year. The hatcheries also provide
visible and popular of Inland Fisheries’ Rainbow and Speckled trout to 22 lakes
management activities. in late fall to support the provinces winter
trout fishery.
Beginning in late March, approximately
200 lakes are stocked with Speckled FRASER’S MILLS HATCHERY
(Brook) trout or Rainbow trout as part of Built in 1928 as part of the Government
our Spring Recreational Trout Stocking of Canada’s hatchery system, Fraser’s
Program. Trout are generally of catchable Mills has essentially been rebuilt since
size, and in addition to providing the Province of Nova Scotia took over
angling opportunities, serve to reduce its operation, in 1982. The site has
pressure on vulnerable wild stocks. outdoor raceways and circular ponds
Many provincial and municipal parks are as well as hatchery buildings. Four
located on lakes which are stocked, as species of salmonids are grown at
are many barrier-free fishing facilities. this hatchery; Speckled (Brook) trout,
Typically, more than 50 derbies receive Brown trout, Rainbow trout and sea-run
trout from our Provincial hatcheries. Last Atlantic salmon. This is the primary trout
spring, due to concerns regarding COVID- broodstock (adult parent fish) facility in
19, no permits for trout derbies were Nova Scotia; and is an excellent place
issued. These social events are cherished to view the thousands of broodstock
by many organizers and communities as required to supply eggs for the stocking
a means of introducing youngsters to the program. Annual distribution from this
enjoyment and comradery that angling hatchery usually exceeds 1,000,000 eggs,
provides. Similarly, all Learn-to-Fish (L2F) fry, parr, yearlings and adult fish.
events were cancelled in 2020 and the
program is suspended for 2021. L2F
60 • 2 2
Scotia has operated this hatchery since
2008; providing approximately 250,000
salmon parr and smolt for the Margaree
and other Atlantic salmon rivers and
250,000 trout, for selected lakes on Cape
Breton Island.
ATLANTIC SALMON ENHANCEMENT

PROGRAM
The cultural and economic importance
of the Atlantic salmon fishery is
MCGOWAN LAKE HATCHERY
recognized by the Province of Nova
The McGowan Lake Hatchery, built in
Scotia. The Inland Fisheries Division’s
1987, has helped to ensure the future of
Atlantic Salmon Enhancement Program
speckled trout fishing in western Nova
was developed in 2006. This program
Scotia, a region with many acid-stressed
involves on-going consultation with the
lakes and streams. This hatchery utilizes
Department of Fisheries and Oceans
a unique water treatment facility to
and other stakeholders around the
counteract the acidic nature (low pH) of
Province. The objective of the program
the McGowan Lake water supply and an
is to provide increased opportunities
oxygen generation and injection system.
to angle Atlantic salmon. The rivers
Each year, close to 1,000,000 Speckled
selected have salmon populations
trout eggs are incubated here and later
which are relatively stable but could
released as fry, fall fingerlings, yearlings
benefit from additional enhancement.
and adult fish.
The Department relies heavily on the
assistance from volunteer groups (NSSA
affiliates, river associations, watershed
stewardship organizations, etc.) to help
with broodstock collection, stocking
juvenile salmon and to provide local
traditional knowledge.
Since the first broodstock collections

of 2006, eight rivers have had their
populations enhanced with fry, parr or
smolt from the Fraser’s Mills or Margaree
fish hatcheries. The rivers are: Baddeck
MARGAREE FISH HATCHERY
River, Graham's River (Inverness Co.),
The historic Margaree hatchery first
Mabou River, Margaree River, Middle River
opened in 1902 and has been supporting
(Cape Breton), River Philip, St. Francis
the economically and culturally important
Harbour River, West River (Antigonish),
Atlantic salmon and trout fishery for over
West River (Pictou), and Waugh’s River.
a century, as well as attracting visitors,
Hatchery enhancement is an important
from around the world, to the scenic
consideration in maintaining an open
Margaree Valley. The Province of Nova
catch and release fall season on the
• 2 2 61
Baddeck and Middle Rivers. In the fall
of 2020, eggs were obtained from wild
broodstock collected from Baddeck River,
Margaree River, Middle River, Waughs
River and West River Antigonish.
In West River Sheet Harbour, in the
fall of 2020, a small number of adult
salmon, reared from wild-caught smolt,
by Dalhousie University (Truro), were
released, as part of a larger project,
attempting to restore the river's wild
Atlantic salmon population.
For information on any of the above

programs, visit our website:
www.novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing
or contact Nova Scotia Department
Fraser’s Mills Hatchery
of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Inland
Fisheries Division at (902) 485-5056.
All of our hatcheries have visitor FOR WEEKLY SPRING STOCKING

interpretation centres which are UPDATES OR A COMPLETE LIST OF
open to the public. These provide an STOCKED LAKES PLEASE VISIT:
opportunity to learn more about the www.novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing
hatchery operations and other aspects
of recreational angling in Nova Scotia. You may contact our hatcheries at the
Schools and other groups can call telephone number below:
to arrange a tour, view photographs,
Fraser’s Mills Fish Hatchery
posters, artifacts and displays on a
Antigonish Co., NS (902) 783-2926
variety of subjects. Please note: The
opening of the the hatchery sites and McGowan Lake Fish Hatchery
visitor centers may be affected by Queens Co., NS (902) 682-2576
COVID-19 restrictions. Margaree Fish Hatchery
Inverness Co., NS (902) 248-2845
62 • 2 2
Sportfish Resource Management
Trout Management Smallmouth Bass Management
In the face of threats such as climate Nova Scotia is divided into two
change and the rapid spread of invasive management zones for Smallmouth Bass.
species, a major focus of the Resource In the western zone, where populations
Management Unit is the stewardship of currently exist, smallmouth bass
wild speckled trout populations across contributes to the sportfishery of the
the province to ensure preservation province. Management projects for this
of Nova Scotia’s angling heritage. species focus on assessing regulations,
Our staff frequently collaborate with evaluating changes in populations
external research groups and community over time, population estimates and
organizations, some partially funded lake ecology. In the eastern zone, high
through the Freshwater Fisheries quality salmonid habitat is abundant,
Research Cooperative, to undertake we are working on control and removal
various initiatives that advance speckled within selected systems. Our goal in
trout science and inform our management both management zones is to ensure
decisions. Our projects often utilize smallmouth bass to not negatively affect
the expertise of angler organizations vulnerable species and no further Illegal
and benefit from numerous volunteers Introductions occur.
contributing their local knowledge.
Tournament Monitoring
Evaluation of Special Trout Data are collected annually at various
Management Areas Smallmouth Bass tournaments to
STMAs are essential tools in the monitor changes and trends in population
stewardship and conservation of wild structure, fish size and condition on
speckled trout. Various regulations several lakes throughout Nova Scotia.
implemented in STMAs across the The Department continues to work
province are designed to promote cooperatively with Smallmouth Bass
sustainable use of highly productive organizations throughout Nova Scotia to
systems and the creation of trophy develop the fishery.
fisheries. To evaluate their effectiveness,
our staff use various techniques to Invasive Species Initiatives
quantify angler activity, harvest levels, Effective sportfish management must also
and the response of the trout populations consider the importance of preventing
to regulation changes. Angler surveys further illegal introductions of aquatic
performed before and after implementation invasive species. We are working with the
of STMAs in River Denys, Cape Breton and Mi'kmaq community, angling associations,
South River, Antigonish, indicate that the and provincial and federal enforcement
quality of the fishery has improved. Long agencies to develop effective strategies.
term monitoring of sea tout fisheries will Ongoing outreach and education, risk
be continued to evaluate the importance of assessment and research focusses on
natural variability and harvest. documenting and understanding the
impacts of invasive species on native fish
communities.
64 • 2 2
Documenting the Spread while still allowing water downstream.
Smallmouth Bass and Chain Pickerel have Concurrently, environmental DNA (eDNA),
large impacts to the trout resource and was used in downstream lakes and
the natural integrity of freshwater systems streams, and fortunately, the presence
in Nova Scotia. They not only impact of smallmouth bass was not detected
native fish communities, but also threaten Since electrofishing and netting are not
biodiversity. The spread of Smallmouth effective for removing all Individuals from
Bass and Chain Pickerel is occurring the lake, the Department, with approval
at a rapid rate and more resources are from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and
required to confirm their presence in new Nova Scotia Environment, applied the fish
habitats. Most of this spread occurs from toxicant (Noxfish II, 5% active Ingredient)
illegal introductions and migration and to eradicate smallmouth bass from Piper
colonization of new habitats. It may take Lake in October of 2020. The outflow from
years for invasive species to establish a the lake was completely blocked ensuring
population and for anglers to catch and no rotenone could enter the brook or St.
report a new occurrence. The Department Mary's River. The rotenone the application
will continue to monitor and confirm the resulted in captured of,170 smallmouth
presence and spread of invasive species bass of various ages. More than 520
throughout the province. smallmouth bass have been removed from
Piper Lake by all methods. The lake will
Chain Pickerel Database continue to be monitored to ensure that
This invasive species is known to be a smallmouth bass have been eradicated
voracious predator, but little is known and native fish populations are restored.
about their biology in Nova Scotia. Data
continues to be added to this long-term Responding to an Illegal Introduction of
database from specimens collected Smallmouth Bass in Dobsons Lake
throughout the province. The spread of aquatic invasive species,
such chain pickerel and smallmouth
Piper Lake Smallmouth Bass bass, has caused the permanent loss
Eradication Project of trout fisheries in many freshwater
In July 2019, smallmouth bass were systems. This growing threat has
detected in Piper Lake, Pictou County resulted in a need to refocus resources
during routine invasive species checks. that were traditionally used to support
Immediately, staff worked to ensure bass assessments of trout fisheries and
could not migrate downstream where trout populations. Smallmouth bass
they could threaten the entire St. Mary’s were recently confirmed in Dobsons
River watershed. Containment was Lake, Cole Harbour River, Guysborough
achieved by placing a series of barrier County. As a part of a rapid response to
nets fykes across the narrow outflowing this illegal introduction, a barrier at the
stream. Various capture techniques outflow of Dobsons Lake was installed
were deployed (boat electrofishing, to protect several connected lakes that
backpack electrofishing, netting, and support excellent trout fisheries. Limited
angling) to capture smallmouth bass. competition from the few fish species
A concrete housed culvert and earthen present in the Cole Harbour system is a
berm was constructed at the Piper Lake main reason why trout thrive and a main
outflow to further prevent fish migration reason why smallmouth bass are a major
• 2 2 65
threat. In an effort to reduce the number Nova Scotia’s angling community as well
of spawning smallmouth bass In Dobsons as showcase all the species and fishing
Lake, Department staff partnered with experiences across the province.
interested community members and In partnership with the Nova Scotian
organized local volunteer anglers who Guides Service, a sub committee of the
successfully captured and removed 11 Nova Scotia Guides Association, there are
adult smallmouth bass. A spawning (nest now over 50 guides participating in the new
site) survey in May and June and a follow- Fishing Guides Professionalization Program.
up shoreline electrofishing survey were These guides completed various workshops
conducted and resulted in the capture of on topics which included photography, social
young-of-year smallmouth bass which media, Food Handling, cultural sensitivity,
confirmed that spawning was successful. guiding etiquette and Treaty Rights
Angling, electrofishing, and environmental education, all intended to enhance their
DNA assessments were conducted from guiding services. Thank you to everyone who
mid-summer into the fall to determine has participated in this exciting initiative.
if smallmouth bass have spread from
Dobsons Lake to downstream waters. Learn to Fish Program
Fortunately, the assessments indicated Coordinated by provincial staff, community
that smallmouth bass were only present organizations, schools and volunteers, the
in Dobsons Lake. A more effective Learn to Fish Program (L2F) recruits the
containment barrier at the outflow is being next generation of stewards of our aquatic
developed and will provide additional time resources, by teaching safe and ethical
to evaluate options and implement a plan angling skills to youth.
to address this recent illegal introduction L2F is designed for youth grades
4 to high school and consists of two
components:
(1) a classroom presentation to
learn species identification, habitat,
Growing the Nova Scotia conservation, ethics and respect and,
Sportfishing Industry (2) a hands-on fishing session to teach
One important aspect of the Department’s youth safety, casting, baiting the hook,
mandate is to promote and grow our catch and release techniques, how
sportfishing industry. An exciting new to appropriately harvest a fish, and
Fish Nova Scotia brand and identity was sportsmanship. Each fishing session is
launched in 2020. Equipped with a new stocked by our provincial hatcheries, so
logo and social media channels, Nova that most youth get a chance to feel that
Scotia is working to set itself apart from tug on the line!
other destinations and highlight the L2F in schools and Community L2F
diversity of sportfishing opportunities we events were not possible during the 2020
have to offer. We are prepared to promote season because of COVID-19 restrictions.
our world-class angling opportunities L2F and other sportfishing programs will
to non-residents and encourage Nova return once it is safe to gather. We wish
Scotians to take advantage of some of the to thank the many teachers, volunteers,
unique outdoor experiences in our own community organizations and the
back yard. Our presence on Facebook and angling community for your patience and
Instagram has allowed us to connect with continued support.
66 • 2 2
Tagged Fish
The Nova Scotia Department of you. For trout and smallmouth bass,
Fisheries and Aquaculture and the please contact the Inland Fisheries office
Fisheries and Oceans Canada tag fish in Pictou at the address on page 21.
throughout the province as part of their They will tell you the history of the fish
management programs. including where and when it was tagged.
If you catch a tagged fish, please note the Please report tags found on Atlantic
tag number, length of fish, date and place salmon by returning the tags to the
of capture. address printed on them.
A sample of scales (taken from the area OBTAINING SCALES AND

just behind and below the top or dorsal MEASURING LENGTH
fin), the fork length of the fish (from the
tip of the snout to the fork of the tail),
and the weight of the fish are useful
measurements to understand growth
rates (see diagram below). Although
some of this information is impossible
to obtain if the fish is released, the
Department would still like to hear from
LAKE INVENTORY PROGRAM

The Lake Inventory Program produces detailed information sheets on
various lakes throughout the province. These information sheets contain
a bathymetric (depth) map as well as data on water quality, stocking and
fish species present. With information sheets currently available for
over 1000 lakes, innovative GIS technologies are also now being utilized
to expand the analysis capabilities on provincial waters, enhance data
accuracy and provide a modern cartographic product.
Bathymetric maps for many popular lakes and an index of
information sheets are available, online at:
www.novascotia.ca/fish/sportfishing
Information sheets are available, free of charge, by writing to:
Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries Aquaculture

Attention: Information Officer
PO Box 700, Pictou, NS B0K 1H0
Tel: (902) 485-5056 E-mail: inland@novascotia.ca
• 2 2 67
Definitions
ANGLING - fishing with a line to which PROVINCIAL WATERS - waters upon
one or more hooks are attached and any shore or land, or on, or in any lake,
that is held in the hand or attached river, stream or watercourse, wholly or
to a rod that is held in the hand or partially within the province, or over
closely attended. which the province has authority to
legislate with respect to fishing within
AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES - an the province.
aquatic organisms that, when or if
introduced into Canadian fisheries RESIDENT - anyone who permanently
waters, has or is likely to have harmful or ordinarily lives in Nova Scotia for the
consequences to fish or fish habitat or last 2 months. A resident also includes
the use of fish. officers of the diplomatic or consular
service of any foreign country stationed
ARTIFICIAL FLY - a single hook or in Nova Scotia and members of the Royal
double hook or two single hooks Canadian Mounted Police or the Canadian
dressed with materials likely to attract Armed Forces stationed or born in Nova
fish, and to which no weight, spinning Scotia. Anyone born in the Province of
device, or natural bait is attached. Nova Scotia who owns real property in the
province is considered a resident.
FLY FISHING - angling by the use of an
artificial fly or flies that are attached to SPORTFISH - Atlantic salmon,
a line or to a leader that is attached to landlocked salmon, trout, and
a line. smallmouth bass.
HOOK - a single, double, or treble TOTAL LENGTH - The length of a fish
hook with or without barbs on one shank measured from the tip of its nose to the
or shaft. end of its tail.
CIRCLE HOOK - type of fish hook SINGLE HOOK LURE - a lure with only
which is sharply curved back in a one hook attached – see above definition
circular shape. for hook.
JIGGING - fishing by manipulating one or
more hooks so as to pierce a fish in any
part of its body instead of luring the fish
to take the hook or hooks into its mouth.
NATURAL BAIT - any form of bait in its

natural form. Natural bait includes, but
is not limited to: worms, minnows, corn
nibblets, pork rind.
NON-RESIDENT - anyone who is not a

resident of Nova Scotia.
68 • 2 2
FISH CONSUMPTION ADVISORY
Nova Scotia that should only be eaten in smaller quantities or not at all
if you are at higher risk.
Mercury Polyclorinated
There are traces of mercury in Biphenyls (PCBs)
Nova Scotia. You should limit how
Five Island Lake or Sheldrake Lake.
Fish in these lakes are known to be
• Brook trout contaminated with PCBs.
• Smallmouth bass
• White perch Learn more at
• Yellow perch https://novascotia.ca/nse/fish-
• Chain pickerel consumption-advisory.asp
The Becoming an Outdoors

Woman's Program offers This workshop is for you if…
• A 3-day workshop designed for women, • You are a beginner and want to try
18 years and older something new but don’t know how to
• Classes introduce participants to a variety get started
of fishing, hunting and other outdoor • You know how to do some activities and
experiences would like to improve on these or try
• Instructors willing to share their knowledge others
and passion in a fun and nurturing • You are looking for fun and fellowship in
environment the great outdoors
If you would like more information, please contact us at:

bownovascotia@gmail.com or visit us on-line www.bownovascotia.com
• 2 2 69
Photo: Province of Nova Scotia
70 • 2 2
Community Group Partnerships
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the following
Community Partners for their continued support with our fieldwork
projects, stocking strategies, education programs, sportfishing
derbies and tournaments.
ACAP Cape Breton Habitant River Trout Association

Albert Bridge Recreation Association Halifax Wildlife Association
Antigonish Rivers Association Hants County Wildlife Association
Annapolis Fly Fishers Hants West Wildlife Association
Annapolis Valley Bass Club Highland Sport Club
Apaqtuwaq Fisheries COOP HRM Community, Culture & Economic
Bass River Fire Department Development
Big Brothers Big Sisters Inverness Ground Search & Rescue
Black River Environmental Committee Inverness Middlewood Fire Dept
Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation Inverness South Anglers Association
Blue Mountain Fire Departement Kings County Wildlife Association
Boys and Girls Club of Lower Sackville LaHave River Watershed Enhancement
Bronzeback Bassers Foundation
Canadian Association of Smallmouth LaHave Salmon Association
Anglers Lake Ainslie & Margaree River Heritage
Cape Breton Anglers Association Association
Cape Breton Wildlife Association Lakeside Smallmouth Bass Club
Cheticamp River Salmon Association Lansdowne Outdoor Recreation Development
Children’s Wish Foundation Association
Clean Annapolis River Project Lunenburg Wildlife Association
Clean Nova Scotia Mabou & District Community Development
Cobequid Salmon Association Association
Cumberland County River Enhancement Margaree & District Fire Dept
Association Margaree Salmon Association
Dartmouth North Community Centre Maitland and District Volunteer Fire Dept.
Digby East Fish and Game Association Medway River Salmon Association
East Shelburne County River Association Middle River Watershed Development
Enfield Volunteer Fire Department Association
Eskasoni Fish and Wildlife Service Mi’kmaw Conservation Group
4-H Tatamagouche Mulgrave & Area Lakes Enhancement Project
Friends of Cornwallis River Mulgrave Recreation Department
Guysborough Fish & Game Association Municipality of District of Cumberland
• 2 2 71
Municipality of District of Lunenburg Sackville Rivers Association
Municipality of District of Mt. Marys Salmon River Salmon Association
New Waterford Fish & Game Association South Shore Volunteer Fire Department
Nine Mile River Association Sheet Harbour & Area Ground Search & Rescue
North Colchester River Restoration Association Shelburne County Fish & Game Association
Nova Bassmasters Shubenacadie Watershed Environmental
Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers & Hunters Protection Society
Nova Scotia Guide Association South Shore Wildlife Association
Nova Scotia Salmon Association South Shore Bassmasters
Orenda Canoe Club St. Mary’s River Association
Paqtknek Fisheries Enterprise Stewards of River Denys Watershed Association
Petite Riviere Association Town of Amherst
Pictou County Rivers Association Town of Mulgrave
Pictou Lions Club Trout Unlimited
Pleasant Bay Fire Department Two Rivers Wildlife Park
Port Morien Wildlife Association Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources
Potlotek Fisheries Tusket River Environmental Protection
Queens County Fish & Game Association Association
Responsible Bass Anglers of Nova Scotia Westchester Volunteer Fire Department
Richmond Wildlife Association Wildlife Habitat Advocates
Rockingstone Heights School
72 • 2 2

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ANGLERS’

Please Take Note ANGLERS’

information and convenience of the anglers

Anglers need to determine if they can go fishing within those guidelines.

Special Management Areas

Location, County Changes or additions

Proposed Changes for 2022

Location, County Changes or additions

Musquodoboit River, Halifax Co. Change of the upstream boundary of the

Wallace River, Cumberland Co. Change of Special Trout Management

Smallmouth Bass Management Review smallmouth bass regulations

Photo: Mark Dort

Call 1-800-565-2224 to report illegal activity

SPECKLED (BROOK) TROUT, BROWN LANDLOCKED SALMON

WARM WATER PROTOCOL

For changes to angling seasons, please

Photo: Pat Taylor

PRICES FOR 2021 TICKETS: $2 each or 3 for $5

ity own ostal ode

elephone Wildlife esources ard

A Gift for: Phone number:

redit ard No e piry cvv

Rules ec , 0 entries postmar ed after

The ASCF is a non-profit organization established through a grant from the

Some things will

We rally the actions of passionate anglers and

We need your voice. Join us for free today.

Photo: Tim Myers

HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES

LIVE POSSESSION AND ILLEGAL

Under the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act, no

Photo: Government of Nova Scotia

Recreational Fisheries Advisory Council (RFAC)

Photo: Mark Dort

Report illegal fishing activities to Nova Scotia Environment at 1-800-565-2224,

Kejimkujik National Park and Cape Breton Highlands

Photo: Mark Dort

SEASONS Lorraine Brook, downstream from the

NIGHT FISHING FOR BROWN TROUT

LAKE O’LAW BROOK, INVERNESS COUNTY

RIVER DENYS, INVERNESS COUNTY

TROUT BROOK, INVERNESS COUNTY

NORTH ASPY RIVER, VICTORIA COUNTY

BADDECK RIVER, VICTORIA COUNTY

NORTH RIVER, VICTORIA COUNTY

Cabot Trail HWY

Cabot Trail Rd.

CAPE BRETON HIGHLANDS

SEASONS Ecum Secum River, downstream from the

SPECIAL TROUT MANAGEMENT AREAS

GUYSBOROUGH (MILFORD HAVEN) RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

ST. MARY’S RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

SALMON RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

ST. FRANCIS HARBOUR RIVER, GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY

WEST RIVER, PICTOU COUNTY

SOUTH RIVER, ANTIGONISH COUNTY See map page 32

Beaver Meadow Addington Forks Bridge

Beaver Mountain St. Joseph

St. Joseph Lake

CSC _ (Security Code) Signature: ____________________